Seaways Focus - August 2026
A call for safe haven
by John Lloyd FNI Chief Executive, The Nautical Institute
I think every professional mariner will join me in expressing concern and frustration at the ongoing situation in the Middle East with the entrapment of mariners in a highly volatile and dangerous area. With thousands of seafarers unable to transit the Straits of Hormuz, their daily routines, communications and well-being are all under considerable threat. Recent attacks have resulted in fatalities on board neutral shipping. Our thoughts and support are with all those directly impacted by these circumstances as well as their families and friends during this time of worry and uncertainty.
Our call for restraint and the protection of merchant shipping remains as valid and important as ever, and we thank all those involved in trying to secure safer seas and safe havens for these ships and their seafarers.
Sharing insights
The discussion about the geopolitical circumstances was central to a wonderful event hosted by the London Branch of The Nautical Institute in July. It was a real thrill and vote of confidence that the Secretary-General of the IMO delivered a key-note address to the meeting. As well as providing key insights into contemporary issues, the presence of leaders from across the maritime sector provided great networking and learning opportunities for all of the delegates. Huge thanks to all of the organising committee and to the sponsors who helped make this a key event in the branch calendar.
These events are key to The Nautical Institute engaging with maritime communities around the world – and thank you to all who are active in holding and hosting events world-wide. Please remember to send a brief report and photographs so we can all learn from these activities through Seaways.
Expanding the network
We are pleased to welcome colleagues from Italy to our branch community following the recent launch of the branch there, and we look forward to the formal establishment of our branch in Thailand. A huge amount of work goes into the administration and coordination required for these branches to become active – so thank you to the Committee members and others who have acted in support.
We were also pleased to welcome to Headquarters in London representatives from The Nautical Institute, France branch as part of the French delegation visiting from the IMO. Thank you for making such an interesting visit and the positive exchange of information.
International connections
Our London headquarters are located close to the IMO, allowing us to host visits from many delegations. This enables us to share the work of The Nautical Institute with visitors from around the world, understand the key priorities and issues from the perspective of others and to build lasting relationships across the maritime community. Most recently we have been pleased to host visits from Pakistan and Oman. Both visits allowed us to gain strong insights into their regional concerns. We found in each case we share a strong commitment to enhancing maritime safety and share the value of the importance of high-quality maritime training, effective communication and the importance of leadership and personal skills for our seafarers.
Such visits also allow us to showcase our publications as well as our own training capability through the Academy activities and to build relationships that will last long after the visit itself.