Stunning entries for 2026 V. Photography Contest

The results are in for the 2026 V. Photography Contest are in with some fantastic images sharing a glimpse of life a V. globally.

Massive thank you to all who submitted their images and also to our judging panel of Katie Lea, David Nolan, Marie Kenny and the kind support from Julia Russell at GMT this year in selecting the winners and runners up in the three key themes of Culture and Community; Safety and the Environment; and Innovation and Learning.

The winner of the Culture and Community Image is Captain Agung Bekti Nugroho the Master onboard FSO Pertamina Abherka with his image entitled ‘Working in unity, across cultures, to achieve a common goal.’



“Thank you for your appreciation. The photo illustrates our commitment to carrying out our duties and responsibilities with full dedication, maintaining good communication with superiors, colleagues, and subordinates, and upholding our HSSE culture.” Capt. Nugroho

In the Safety and the Environment category Pumpman Rahul Thundiyil won with his striking image of a Dutch rescue helicopter and vessel training in the North Sea. The image highlights both the remote environment and the emergency measures necessary for the safety of our seafarers.



Chief Officer Maxim Nozdrin won the Innovation and Learning section with a creative image entitled ‘Elegance Maintenance’ that humorously reflected the potential to turn daily activities onboard into a learning experience and an innovative approach to life at sea with V.

The three winners will receive a $250 Travel voucher from GMT, and we look forward to showcasing their work on our channels in the coming months.

Of course, amongst the entries there were plenty of choice with a runner up in each category worthy of a special mention.

Carpenter Angel Balagtas on the Magellan Explorer captured a fantastic image of a Leopard Seal as unique view of the environment in which some of our seafarers’ work.



Dhanarajan Radhakrishnan the Fourth Engineer onboard Front Challenger captured a sunlit panorama of 276m tanker from the port bridge deck, an unusual view for an engineer of these innovative and technical vessels.  



While Chief Officer Venus Prado captured the spirit of life onboard for the batch of cadets joining Seaways Guayaquil for their first rotation in Argentinian waters.

A final word from our judges and we hope you all enjoy this year’s images.

“Our seafarers showcased a remarkable ability to capture their lives at sea, and the positive energy shines through in every image. Choosing the winners was no easy feat. I only wish we could award everyone.”  Julia Russell, GMT

“We saw such a brilliant mix of creative entries from colleagues across sea and shore. Narrowing it down wasn’t easy, but a huge congratulations to the winners for perfectly capturing our 2026 themes.” Marie Kenny, Commercial Associate V.Group

“Once again, all the photos received had their own merits and provoked much debate amongst the judges.  We did have some very striking photos sent in this year that suggest adding an additional category to introduce further opportunity for our shore colleagues and our seafarer’s families.”  David Nolan, HSSEQ Manager, V.Ships UK

“It was a pleasure to review all these photos which offered a fascinating glimpse into life at sea from many different angles.  The images really show the creativity and spirit of our seafarers, along with a clear respect for the marine environment. Many thanks to all who entered and congratulations to our winners!”  Katie Lea, Director of Culture and Engagement

Crew Update – Middle East Situation

Crew Update – Middle East Situation

The ongoing situation in the Middle East remains challenging for shipping and our Emergency Response and Business Continuity (ERBC) team continues to monitor developments closely and assess any potential impact on our operations and personnel.

The safety and wellbeing of our crew remain our highest priority. We will continue to share further updates as circumstances change.

For crew currently onboard or preparing to travel:

  • Please continue to follow normal safety and reporting procedures.
  • Stay in regular contact with your crew coordinator for the latest travel guidance.
  • Do not make independent travel changes unless advised by the company.

Travel and Operational Impact


There are ongoing air travel disruptions in some parts of the region, with airlines adjusting routes, delaying flights, or implementing temporary airspace restrictions. As a result, crew changes involving transit through affected airports may experience delays or require re‑routing.

Our operations and crewing teams are working closely with GMT to identify the safest and most reliable travel options. Where necessary, alternative arrangements will be made to minimise disruption and ensure your safety and wellbeing.

Thank you for your cooperation and continued professionalism.

Kind regards,

Ian Trebinski and Allan Falkenberg

V.Ships Learning Academy Opens in Chennai

V.Ships Learning Academy (VSLA) in Chennai, in partnership with the Indian maritime institute, AMET was officially opened during April. 



The new facility is dedicated to training cadet recruits with the aim of preparing them for a career with V. The partnership and new facility are a strategic investment in upskilling Indian talent and supporting seafarer recruitment to meet the needs of the global fleet.

The VSLA will initially welcome 120 new entrants with bachelor’s degrees and provide them with a maritime education that is IMO and STCW compliant, offer practical experience onboard a dedicated training vessel as well as exposure to bridge and engine room simulators. The programmes offered at the academy will also feature V. specific training to ensure cadets are familiar with V.’s culture and operating standards. This will support long-term progression to officer level within the business.

The opening of the VSLA builds on V.’s long-standing presence in India, dating back to 1984. It aligns with V.’s broader aims to strengthen crewing and seafarer recruitment in the country, particularly following the opening of V.’s office in Chennai in 2024.

Looking ahead, V. will explore opportunities to expand the academy’s scope to include additional training programmes, including catering and hospitality, further diversifying career development pathways across its workforce.

AMET University

V. Commercial Wins: March Update

March delivered a strong haul of new and retained business across the Ship Management & Crew Management team, with wins spanning multiple vessel types and offices around the globe. From LNG newbuilds to bulk carriers, it's been a month that showcases the breadth and depth of what we do.

Ship Management wins

5x LNG | MOL (Nantes) – Five newbuilding LNG carriers (174,000 m³, delivering 2027) secured in a significant retention, reflecting the enduring confidence MOL places in our Nantes team.

1x LNG | Rimorchiatori Riuniti Panfido (LNG) – A new client win for the LNG team, securing management of an LNG bunkering barge — an exciting addition to our growing LNG portfolio.

1x Tanker | Mercuria Energy (Glasgow) – New addition to the fleet, a LR1 tanker, with the SMA signed and vessel delivered in Trinidad, continuing a valued relationship with Mercuria.

2x Tanker | Sinokor (Glasgow)  – Both SMAs signed in March, reflecting continued client trust in our Glasgow team across a growing fleet relationship.

2x Tanker | Frontline (ITM Dubai) – Newbuildings Front Avon and Front Carron secured, a testament to the strong partnership our ITM Dubai team has built with Frontline.

2x Bulk Carrier | Silk Searoad (Piraeus) – SMAs signed for two bulk carriers, reflecting continued confidence from a well-established client relationship.

1x LPG | Lunasol Polaris (Limassol) – A new client win, with the SMA signed for the LPG carrier Fortunato — great recognition of the compelling solution our Limassol team put forward.

1x Containership | Costamare (Piraeus) – Another vessel win from Costamare, reinforcing our relationship.

Crew Management wins

1x Leisure Vessel | Balearia – Another contract signed with longstanding client Balearia, with our Monaco team continuing to deliver the crewing expertise they've come to rely on.

1x Bulk Carrier | Spring Marine – Confirmation received for the Teide, with our Piraeus team securing another vote of confidence from this trusted repeat client.

Worthy mentions:

Cadetship Program Expansion: Increased participation in the V Cadetship Program across both existing and new clients, further strengthening our talent pipeline and long-term crewing capabilities.

A fantastic month all round — well done to every team involved in securing and retaining this business.

A big thank you to all teams involved — your continued effort keeps our momentum strong.

V. Crew Conference in China



The training and development team and operational teams from the Shanghai office had a fantastic crew conference in China this month.  For three days sea and shore colleagues came together for a series of workshops and interactive sessions as one team

Many topics were covered, but the main focus was on how we can be better prepared for PSC inspections and ensure they go as smoothly as possible. It's clear that many of us already have solid knowledge and know the ropes—but there’s always room to learn, share, and improve together.

Operations Director in Shanghai Murat Sevim thanked his colleagues alongside Mario Moretti, Marcin Wolasiewicz, Artem Pachenko and Andrew McGurk who all showed how much we value each other in travelling to the event.

The Shanghai colleagues did a truly fantastic job hosting the event, with Jonny Jiang leading the training alongside Xuming Wang and Jiaseng Wang and many other people involved supporting the event, whose hard work didn't go unnoticed, and were very much part of this success for the seafarers attending.

Meet the Safety Catch Winner for March 2026!

We are delighted to recognize 3rd Officer Sone Aung Pyae of vessel Top Marine (Asia Cluster) as the March 2026 V.Group Safety Catch Award winner!

In recognition of the safety awareness and decisive action demonstrated, Sone Aung will receive a certificate of appreciation, a personal commendation letter and a $200 GMT Travel Voucher.

Safety Observation – What Happened

During cargo discharge operations using the ship’s crane and grab, a crew member was observed approaching and crossing the crane operating area while lifting operations were in progress. Recognizing the risk, the 3rd Officer stopped the operation, allowing the individual to move to a designated safe area, and cargo operations were only resumed once the area was confirmed clear.

This observation highlights the importance of maintaining situational awareness during lifting operations and demonstrates how timely use of Stop Work Authority can prevent potential harm.

Want to learn more?

  Watch the Lessons Learnt video based on Sone Aung’s submission and explore additional resources in the Learning Library to strengthen safety awareness.

Reminder: Stop Work Authority

Every colleague, ashore or at sea, has the right and responsibility to stop work if an activity is unsafe. Exercising Stop Work Authority helps protect people, the environment, and our assets.

Looking Ahead …

All monthly Safety Catch winners in 2026 will progress into the selection process for the Annual Safety Catch Award, offering even greater recognition and reward.

Let’s continue identifying hazards when we see them, acting early, and sharing what we learn. These everyday actions are what prevent incidents and keep our people safe.

#StopWorkAuthority    #HaveYourSay

Lesson learnt

Ship to Shore Roles - Chief Engineer Rich Li's Story

Rich (Runcai) Li has built a steady and disciplined maritime career over more than two decades, beginning as a cadet engineer and progressing through every rank to Chief Engineer.



Runcai initially developed a strong technical foundation across handy-size, multi-purpose, and bulk carrier vessels, working within multicultural crews and gaining hands-on experience in engine room operations, maintenance, and safety compliance. His career progressed to Second Engineer reflecting both his technical competence and his ability to manage priorities, troubleshoot effectively, and contribute to reliable vessel performance.

From 2021, Rich served as Chief Engineer on a series of large Cape-size bulk carriers where he took full responsibility for engine room operations, consistently ensuring zero delays due to machinery failure and maintaining high standards of regulatory compliance with IMO frameworks. Overseeing complex operations including vessel takeovers, shipyard newbuild deliveries, and emission control systems on modern container ships enabled his proactive approach to maintenance, inspections, and safety management resulting in multiple clean Port State Control records and an incident-free track record.

After 16 years at sea Rich transitioned ashore into the role of Assistant Fleet Superintendent in our Shanghai office.  This is a natural progression from hands-on technical leadership onboard to a broader management and oversight across fleets. Having a deep operational insight, strong safety culture, and proven cost control and maintenance planning skills, he is well positioned to support vessel performance, crew development, and technical compliance from shore.

Rich Li’s career demonstrates a consistent commitment to reliability, continuous improvement, and delivering high standards in both shipboard and now a shore-based role.

 

Bring Your Sea Experience Ashore - Your Next Step Starts Here!

Are you currently sailing with V. and considering a move ashore?

We’re inviting our own talented seafarers to apply for future shore-based career opportunities across our global offices.

Your knowledge of life at sea is invaluable and we believe it belongs at the heart of our shore-based operations.

Whether you're passionate about vessel management, crew support, safety compliance, or training, your next role might be waiting just ashore.

The Ship to Shore Programme is designed to support and encourage V. seafarers who are ready to transition into shore-based careers.

Your sea experience is your strength — let’s bring it ashore!

If you’re passionate about continuing your maritime journey from a different vantage point, one where your expertise helps manage fleets, support operations, or train future seafarers, we invite you to apply.

We’re continuously looking to match sea-going talent with onshore roles.

Submit your profile below, and we’ll reach out when the right opportunity comes along.


Register Interest

Share Your Work. Earn Voyage Loyalty SeaStars. Get Recognised.

Got a great way of doing things onboard?

We want to see it.

Submit short videos or photos (using appropriately safe equipment and in a safe manner) showing:

  • Best practice in action
  • How you do your job
  • Vessel operations
  • Onboard demonstrations
  • Smart ideas that improve safety or efficiency

No need for professional editing — raw footage and photos are welcome.

⭐ What You Can Earn

150 Loyalty SeaStars for every approved submission
+300 Loyalty SeaStars if your content is used
Up to 450 Loyalty SeaStars per piece

Equivalent gift vouchers will be issued if you are not enrolled into Voyage Loyalty.

🌟 Become a Continuous Improvement Star

Regular high-quality contributors will receive:

  • Special recognition
  • Enhanced rewards
  • Organisation-wide visibility

Your knowledge helps improve the fleet. Your experience deserves recognition. Start sharing today.

Submissions or further information can be made at the following address: Hsseq.improvement@v.group

The Continuous Improvement Video Library

Within HSSEQ, a video library has been developed and populated with a range of topics related to our company and industry. Within the library you can find topics in relation to:

  • Incident reviews
  • CI learnings
  • Safety Catch of the Month winners
  • Educational topics – the IMO Codes and Conventions Series
  • CI Information
  • PSC
  • Training – Control of Work
  • Coaching

The list goes on and the topics being developed are increasing. These short bite size videos, based on real life incidents and brought to life using AI software. These videos can be used onboard our vessels directly from the Vimeo channel.

Stay tuned for 2026 as more features will be developed and available.

Launch Video

V.Care Wellbeing Webinar – Tools to Handle Stress

As part of Stress Awareness Month in April, the V.Care Wellbeing Webinar focused on practical tools to help manage stress in the maritime workplace.  

Whether you’re working at sea or ashore, periods of pressure and demanding workloads are common. This session introduces simple, effective techniques to help you cope with everyday stressors, build resilience, and maintain wellbeing.

ComPsych psychotherapist and counsellor Beverley Hills takes us through some useful techniques in the session to help tackle stress.

What You Can Expect:

  • Recognise how personal choices and accountability can help reduce stress
  • Understand the benefits of hobbies and refreshing activities for wellbeing
  • Learn how reflecting on past successes can build confidence during stressful times
  • Discover the importance of taking breaks to reset and return to tasks more effectively

The recording of the session is linked below.

V.CARE: Wellbeing Webinars

You can catch up with the rest of EAP orientation and previous webinars below:

https://vimeo.com/1049342320?share=copy

Are you aware of all the wellbeing resources available to you?

Both the Employee Assistance Program (EAP) and inspiration for your wellbeing can be found on the V.Care website, or available through the V.Crew Connect App.

You can also join the V.Care Facebook page to hear from other V. seafarers and families about their journey with V.

V.Care Webinar

Oceanic Healthy Corner: Stress

Life at sea can be rewarding, but it also brings stress. Keeping stress levels low is essential for your wellbeing and safety. Here are a few practical habits that make a real difference onboard.

  • Establish a routine!

A steady routine helps your mind feel more in control, even if it is not always possible onboard. Try to keep regular times for meals, rest, exercise, and downtime when possible because having some predictability in your day reduces stress.

  • Stay connected!

Isolation increases anxiety and stress. Try to stay connected with the fellow crew or, when possible, call or message loved ones. Sharing how you feel can lift your mood and remind you that you are not alone.

  • Practise relaxation techniques!

Deep breathing, stretching, or a few minutes of mindfulness can help reset your mind during busy or stressful moments. Small pauses make a big difference.

  • Maintain a healthy lifestyle!

Healthy habits support a healthy mind. Eat well=balanced meals, move your body daily, and avoid too many readymade foods and sugary drinks. Even a short walk on deck helps clear your head.

  • Notice early stress signals!

Trouble sleeping, irritability, muscle tension, or changes in appetite are signs that your stress is building. Address it early before it affects your health.

  • Take some rest!

Fatigue makes stress worse. Take short breaks during your shift and aim for enough sleep when possible. A rested mind handles challenges better.