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The Rhenus Group, a global logistics solutions provider, has announced the official rebranding of Blu Logistics LATAM to Rhenus Logistics, following its acquisition in 2023.

The rebranding will enhance the Group’s footprint and operational integration across Latin America, as BLU Logistics LATAM will now commercially operate under the Rhenus Logistics name in Argentina, Colombia, Ecuador, Mexico, Paraguay, and Uruguay. This transition complements and strengthens Rhenus existing operations in Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, and Mexico, while further expanding its service portfolio in the region with a focus on Air & Ocean services and warehousing solutions. The unified brand identity of the two family-owned companies will offer customers greater consistency, connectivity and access to the Groups global standards, capabilities, and service portfolio.

The rebrand comes amid a period of significant growth across the region. In 2024, the combined operations of Rhenus Logistics LATAM and BLU Logistics LATAM handled over 210,000 TEUs in full container load (FCL) shipments, a 16.67% increase compared to the 180,000 TEUs managed by BLU Logistics LATAM alone in 2023. This growth was driven by the capacity, service solutions, and operational efficiencies enabled through the Rhenus global network. As a result of its strong positioning and ranking in ocean freight, particularly on the Far East Asia to LATAM trade lane, Rhenus Logistics is recognized as a leading freight forwarder in the region. To continue supporting customer and market demands, the company has expanded its regional footprint with new office openings. Most recently, in March, Rhenus Brazil inaugurated a new branch in Belo Horizonte, strengthening its presence in key logistics hubs throughout the country. LATAM’s growing relevance in global trade is evident through increasing cargo volumes from Asia, India, Europe, and the United States.

“For the Rhenus Group, this rebranding marks a new era in Latin America and reinforces our long-term commitment to the region,” said Tobias Bartz, CEO of the Rhenus Group. “It reflects both our local success and our global ambition. We’ve seen remarkable growth and continue to identify strong opportunities across the region. This rebranding connects the shared identity of two family-owned companies unifying as one. It strengthens our footprint in Latin America and offers our customers greater efficiency, visibility, and the opportunity to grow their business with us, now fully integrated into our global network, portfolio of services and capabilities.”

“Over 30 years as Blu Logistics we are entering a new chapter as part of Rhenus,” said David Kassin, CEO of Rhenus Air & Ocean LATAM. “Our Blu family has become much stronger now that we are fully integrated and rebranded under the Rhenus name, where we get to fully benefit the global infrastructure, technology, services of the Rhenus Group, while continuing to offer the same local knowledge and trusted relationships with our customers, partners and employees that have defined our continued success in the region.”

Rhenus Logistics will continue to provide a full suite of solutions in Latin America, including air and ocean freight, customs brokerage, warehousing, and project logistics. Blu Logistics offices will now operate under the Rhenus brand name and benefit from the Rhenus Group’s global infrastructure, systems, and technology, ensuring enhanced efficiency and service delivery. This rebranding reflects the company’s strategic focus on expanding its Air & Ocean division in high-growth markets such as Latin America and delivering fully integrated, end-to-end supply chain solutions worldwide.

Bureau Veritas Marine & Offshore (BV) is reinforcing its commitment to sustainable shipping by classing a series of methanol-ready oil and chemical tankers for Union Maritime, which are currently being equipped with wind propulsion systems, including Norsepower Rotor Sails (NPRS).

The first two vessels in this series, Buran and Ostro, have been delivered in February and April 2025 respectively, following their construction at Fujian Southeast Shipbuilding. Union Maritime have two additional 18,500 dwt tankers currently under construction at Fujian Southeast Shipbuilding and two more at Wuhu Shipyard Co., Ltd, which will all be equipped with Norsepower Rotor Sails, with deliveries scheduled throughout 2025.

These six vessels mark the first wave of a broader new build programme for Union Maritime under BV class. More than 25 additional tankers are scheduled for delivery between 2026 and 2028, including a significant series at Wuhu Shipyard, with further vessels being built at other major Chinese shipyards. These vessels will either be delivered with wind propulsion systems installed or prepared for future integration, using technologies from various suppliers such as Norsepower.

By incorporating wind propulsion systems and methanol-ready configurations, Union Maritime is aiming to improve energy efficiency and support long-term emissions reduction across its expanding fleet.

BV supports the integration of these systems by conducting evaluations on the vessels to assess compliance with the relevant rules and notations to help ensure they meet the latest standards for both wind propulsion and alternative fuels, like methanol. This includes its Rules for Wind Propulsion Systems (NR 206), the Wind Propulsion 1 and Wind Propulsion 2 notations for vessels equipped with wind propulsion systems, as well as the METHANOLFUEL-PREPARED notation. BV has provided comprehensive support throughout the project, including an efficient and thorough review of the upgraded design to meet class requirements and delivery schedules.

Bhuvnesh Dogra, Head of Technical at Union Maritime: “The deliveries of Buran and Ostro mark an exciting first step in our broader new build programme under Bureau Veritas class. These six vessels represent the beginning of an ambitious plan to modernize our fleet with advanced wind propulsion systems. Bureau Veritas’ expertise in classing these vessels helps ensure that we meet the highest safety and regulatory standards, while also positioning ourselves at the forefront of sustainable shipping. This collaboration with Bureau Veritas is critical as we continue to build a fleet that not only meets the evolving demands of the industry but also leads the way in emissions reduction and energy efficiency.”

Matthieu de Tugny, President of Bureau Veritas Marine & Offshore, said: “BV is delighted to support Union Maritime with the integration of sustainable shipping solutions into its fleet. Safety remains paramount in the adoption of new technologies, and our classification framework helps ensure that the innovations meet safety and regulatory standards. By classing these vessels, we support ship owners and operators in navigating the transition to more sustainable operations, while maintaining the safety and reliability of their fleets.”

Heikki Pöntynen, CEO, Norsepower, said: “We’re proud that six of Union Maritime’s new methanol-ready tankers are being equipped with Norsepower Rotor Sails, marking a strong commitment to wind propulsion as a key decarbonization solution. This growing fleet demonstrates how wind-assist technologies can be scaled in parallel with alternative fuels to deliver immediate and long-term emissions reductions. Having the classification of Bureau Veritas — one of the most respected classification societies — is a clear validation of the quality, reliability, and safety of our technology. It’s an exciting milestone, and one that reinforces wind propulsion as a core component of sustainable shipping.”

Total Movements, member to the Worldwide Project Consortium (WWPC) in India, has successfully executed a complex port-to-port shipment of over 10,000 cbm of critical break bulk cargo for a major steel plant project in India.

Secured after intense competition and multiple rounds of bidding, this shipment required precise logistical coordination and strategic planning to overcome significant challenges.

Key highlights of the shipment: Large-scale single shipment exceeding 10,000 cbm; Strict deadline requiring meticulous scheduling; Oversized cargo dimensions, with diameters surpassing 7 meters; Congested port operations, adding to the complexity of execution.

Company spokesperson adds: “With detailed planning and close coordination, the shipment was delivered in a safe and timely manner. Kudos to all teams and partners involved for their excellent support and coordination!”

Central Oceans are thrilled to bring their customer-first, boots-on-the-ground project management model to the nation’s largest breakbulk port, where they look forward to building their brand and enhancing their service offerings to clients in the region.

Additionally, Central Oceans are proud to announce that the Houston office has secured a new contract for the complete logistics of a turnkey project that will involve transporting goods from various locations in Europe and Asia into Ohio. This project will showcase their multimodal expertise and their unwavering commitment to delivering the highest level of logistics excellence.

With this expansion, Central Oceans looks forward to providing its customers with the same level of service and trusted professional advice they have come to expect.

Central Oceans – Your trusted partner in logistics and supply chain solutions.

Huisman has signed a contract with Greek shipowner Capital Offshore for the delivery of four state-of-the-art Knuckle Boom Cranes.

These cranes will be integrated into the new MMC-designed platform supply vessels (PSVs), currently under construction at the Fujian Mawei shipyard, and destined for operations in the Brazilian market.
Huisman to deliver Knuckle Boom Cranes for Capital Offshore’s new platform supply vessels
The cranes boast a lifting capacity of 100mt each, and are designed to operate at depths of up to 3,000 meters, ensuring optimal performance in demanding offshore environments.

Equipped with Huisman’s proprietary Active Heave Compensation (AHC) System, which connects the crane’s electric setup to the vessel’s DC grid, enabling efficient interaction with the vessel’s electrical energy storage system. This integration significantly reduces the net energy consumption of offshore lifting operations.

The cranes will be integrated with the Kongsberg-designed power grid onboard the vessels. This integration maximises the cranes’ power performance while significantly reducing net energy consumption, thanks to Huisman’s proprietary energy recovery management system.

David Roodenburg, CEO of Huisman: “We are pleased to announce our new cooperation with Capital Offshore through this initial order, which marks an important milestone for us. We are proud to have earned Capital Offshore’s confidence in our capabilities. Our cranes are engineered to deliver exceptional performance and reliability in the most demanding offshore environments, and we look forward to supporting Capital Offshore in their operations. We see this as the start of a strong and lasting partnership, built on a shared commitment to quality, innovation, and operational excellence.”

Mammoet today announced that it will be implementing HVO fuel across the Netherlands, UK and Canada from Q2 2025.

The move demonstrates that the company is leading the market in developing more sustainable ways of conducting heavy lifting and transport.

This investment in HVO has been driven by higher demand for lower carbon solutions from Mammoet’s customers, and sits within the organization’s wider carbon reduction program.
Hydrotreated Vegetable Oil (HVO) is a diesel replacement fuel made from vegetable oils and animal fats. It can reduce up to 90% of greenhouse gas (GHG or CO2) emissions over its lifecycle when compared to diesel.

By embracing HVO, a significant impact can be made on carbon reduction today. Meanwhile, solutions including grid power, battery operation and – in the case of large projects at remote locations – hydrogen are helping the organization to move closer to zero emissions on site.

Mammoet’s goal is to use HVO100 – which is made from 100% renewable raw materials – as much as possible. Mixable with existing fuel stocks, this alternative fuel is compatible with most diesel engines, and so can begin to be used immediately.

The adoption of HVO has been facilitated by significant change management programs within the affected local organizations; both in process and in infrastructure. For example, Mammoet’s own network of fueling stations that serve its fleet of trucks, mobile cranes and SPMTs.

HVO will be delivered to Mammoet fuel stations in the Netherlands, its UK bases in Hixon and Teesside, and branches in Canada. Besides reducing its own impact, this transition will enable Mammoet to create specific offerings for customers where a reduction in emissions is needed.

This innovation joins other recent investments by Mammoet in sustainable operations, including the electric powered SPMT, battery operation for even its largest ring cranes, and various investments in electric equipment.

Pascal Eeken, Improvement and Innovation Manager at Mammoet Europe, said: “This is a significant step we are taking to reduce our carbon footprint. By being the first large heavy lifting and transport company to commit to this new fuel at scale, we will drive down our emissions and showcase that we are also the market leader on this front.”

Kawasaki Kisen Kaisha, Ltd. (“K” LINE) has decided to provide a monetary donation of 2 million yen through the Japanese Red Cross Society toward relief efforts in the areas damaged by the earthquake that hit the central Myanmar on March 28, 2025.

“K” LINE would express its most sincere sympathy to all those affected by the earthquake and pray for the soonest recovery of the damaged area.

Falcon International, a member of the Project Logistics Alliance representing Canada, has successfully managed the transport of a helicopter from Calgary, Canada, to Luxembourg, showcasing the company’s expertise in handling complex cargo moves.

During the Helicopter Convention in Dallas, Texas, a representative from Hong Kong-based Heli Cargo Services (HCS) approached Emad from Falcon’s project department. HCS needed a quick quote for transporting a helicopter from Calgary to Luxembourg. The request came in on a Wednesday, with the helicopter required to arrive in Luxembourg by the following Wednesday, meaning it needed to depart Calgary on Tuesday.

True to Falcon International’s reputation for efficiency, the team promptly submitted a detailed quote, and by Thursday, the go-ahead was confirmed. Falcon’s team then conducted an on-site inspection at the client’s hangar in Calgary. By Friday, the helicopter had been moved to Calgary International Airport, and it was successfully loaded onto the flight from Calgary International Airport to Luxembourg the following Tuesday, exactly as requested by HCS.

This swift and seamless execution highlights Falcon International’s ability to streamline operations and deliver top-tier logistics services under tight deadlines.

MS Global are proud to report on a successful shipment they recently completed involving columns, which were transported to Indonesia.

Received in Port Klang, Malaysia, this delivery by MS Global consisted of 12 packages, weighing a total 100,132 kg with a volume of 796 cbm.

The largest item of cargo measured 11.3 (W), 4.69 (H), 4.95 (L) meters and weighed 26,500 kg by itself!

This shipment was moved safely overseas to Panjang, Indonesia thanks to the diligence of MS Global’s team.

MS Global Freight Solution, located in Port Klang, Johor Bharu and Penang, Malaysia, can handle air & sea heavy lift project cargo from/to Malaysia including East Malaysia (Borneo Island).

“We provide feasibility study, road survey, method of statement, execution and supervision of packing, transportation, loading, lashing, unloading and placement at consignee’s site. We arrange for breakbulk vessels, open tops, flat racks and maintain close relationship with many ship owners.”

Mammoet makes HVO commitment

“K” LINE to support earthquake victims in Myanmar

Falcon delivers helicopter to Luxembourg

MS Global transports columns to Panjang

ABL partners with Xerafy

DEME’s expertise solves mystery

PLA introduces RBS Logistics

The final stint of Kjetil Borch’s encounter with shipping

Sarens installs landmark cycling bridge

Hellmann celebrates 75 years in Bielefeld branch

Rhenus launches Empowered by You

MGL navigates challenging chiller project

CHIC partners with Norsepower

EXG completes landmark project

Scheldt Tunnel gets ready for their next journey

MS Global are proud to report on a successful shipment they recently completed involving columns, which were transported to Indonesia.

Received in Port Klang, Malaysia, this delivery by MS Global consisted of 12 packages, weighing a total 100,132 kg with a volume of 796 cbm.

The largest item of cargo measured 11.3 (W), 4.69 (H), 4.95 (L) meters and weighed 26,500 kg by itself!

This shipment was moved safely overseas to Panjang, Indonesia thanks to the diligence of MS Global’s team.

MS Global Freight Solution, located in Port Klang, Johor Bharu and Penang, Malaysia, can handle air & sea heavy lift project cargo from/to Malaysia including East Malaysia (Borneo Island).

“We provide feasibility study, road survey, method of statement, execution and supervision of packing, transportation, loading, lashing, unloading and placement at consignee’s site. We arrange for breakbulk vessels, open tops, flat racks and maintain close relationship with many ship owners.”

Mammoet makes HVO commitment

“K” LINE to support earthquake victims in Myanmar

Falcon delivers helicopter to Luxembourg

MS Global transports columns to Panjang

ABL partners with Xerafy

DEME’s expertise solves mystery

PLA introduces RBS Logistics

The final stint of Kjetil Borch’s encounter with shipping

Sarens installs landmark cycling bridge

Hellmann celebrates 75 years in Bielefeld branch

Rhenus launches Empowered by You

MGL navigates challenging chiller project

CHIC partners with Norsepower

EXG completes landmark project

Scheldt Tunnel gets ready for their next journey

ABL has joined forces with Xerafy, a leader in RFID engineering, to accelerate digital transformation in asset-intensive industries using ABL’s asset-tracking software, AssetVoice.

The partnership delivers a seamless, end-to-end RFID asset tracking solution designed to meet the complex needs of sectors such as Oil & Gas, Renewables, Healthcare, and Manufacturing—helping organisations streamline operations, improve asset utilisation, and ensure regulatory compliance.

The partnership brings together Xerafy’s field-proven RFID tagging solutions and ABL’s award-winning AssetVoice asset tracking software. This integrated solution empowers businesses with real-time asset visibility and intelligent automation across critical workflows.

With support for RFID, IoT sensors, and cloud-based services, AssetVoice enables low-code, fully customisable workflows tailored to each organisation’s operational needs. Companies can configure the platform to track assets by location, condition, and usage—reducing manual workload, minimising asset loss, improving compliance, and cutting operational costs.

As part of the SAP and IBM ecosystems, AssetVoice has been deployed in 49 countries across hundreds of asset types, making it a versatile, all-in-one asset tracking platform trusted by global enterprises.

Xerafy and ABL bring together deep domain expertise in delivering scalable RFID asset tracking software across critical sectors: Energy: Boosting asset utilisation, customising workflows, eliminating bottlenecks, minimising downtime, improving digital traceability, and enhancing safety compliance.

Healthcare: Streamlining the tracking of medical equipment and devices to prevent loss, meet regulatory requirements, and enable data-driven resource allocation for direct patient care.

Manufacturing: Enabling end-to-end asset visibility across production lines to improve efficiency, reduce manual effort, and support lean operations.

“RFID has the power to transform asset tracking, yet many organisations still encounter friction and barriers to adoption,”

“Our partnership with ABL brings together deep domain expertise and a seamless end-to-end solution that simplifies digitisation. Together, we’re enabling businesses to gain real-time visibility, boost operational efficiency, and maximise asset utilisation.” said Michel Gillmann, Chief Marketing Officer at Xerafy.

“Asset-intensive industries need smarter ways to manage critical assets to prevent loss, unnecessary overstocking, and time wastage,”

“Our partnership with Xerafy facilitates a seamless integration between their RFID technology and our intelligent asset tracking platform for management of change.” said Peter Adam, Group Managing Director AIM at ABL Group.

After many years of research, a mystery has finally been solved: the last unknown German submarine from World War I in Belgian waters has been identified as the UB-57.

The wreck of the UB-57 lies near the French border, west of the Westhinderbank, at a depth of about 17 meters. Although the wreck had been known for over thirty years and even protected as maritime heritage, its exact identity remained unclear. The submarine is largely buried in the sand, which made the research challenging.

“The significant challenge we faced was that traditional dredging was not an option; instead, we had to carefully blow the sand away. The primary risk was the potential damage to the submarine, which we absolutely had to avoid. This required extensive soil research to determine factors such as the compaction and grain size of the sand. Using a water jet at reduced power (via the AMOB system), we meticulously cleared the stern of the submarine, which had been buried for over a century. This process exposed the propellers, which bore inscriptions that ultimately confirmed the submarine’s identity as the UB-57,” commented Dirk Defloor (Area Director Benelux for Dredging & Infra) on the discovery. “Thanks to the excellent collaboration between the crew of our ‘Meuse River’ and our EDT and Survey department, DEME was able to contribute to solving the mystery of the last unidentified German U-boat from World War I in Belgian waters.”

The wreck belongs to the UB-III type, an advanced submarine with a range of 9,000 nautical miles and heavy armament, including five torpedo tubes and an 8.8 cm gun. The UB-57 disappeared on August 14, 1918, after a patrol during which three more ships were sunk. The wreck of the UB-57 is not only of historical importance but also a war monument. All 29 crew members perished in the disaster. After identification, the wreck was carefully reburied under the sand to prevent further erosion and damage.

The governor of West Flanders and chairman of Vlaams Instituut voor de Zee VLIZ, Carl Decaluwé, presented the discovery of the last unknown German submarine on April 14 at the InnovOcean Campus of VLIZ. Dr. Tomas Termote provided an explanation of this discovery in the presence of the German embassy, representatives of DEME, and the gathered press.

PLA are pleased to introduce RBS Logistics, representing Azerbaijan, as the newest member of the Project Logistics Alliance community.

Founded in 2011 in Georgia and later expanding to Azerbaijan, RBS Logistics has established itself as a trusted freight forwarding partner across the Caucasus, with a strong regional operational presence. Over the years, RBS has built a strong reputation for delivering high-quality, tailored logistics solutions to a diverse client base. The company has developed a notable presence, offering value-added services such as break-bulk chartering, container freight station operations, and stevedoring. Known for its agility and specialized capabilities, RBS continues to set industry standards across the region.

Specializing in project logistics, RBS Logistics excels in managing complex, oversized, and high-value cargo with precision and care. From pipeline infrastructure and mining machinery to chemical production facilities, the company delivers end-to-end solutions that encompass everything from breakbulk and heavy-lift transport to port agency coordination, cargo surveys, and intermodal logistics – including air, rail, and road freight. RBS’s experienced team ensures smooth and reliable execution even for the most demanding project cargo scenarios. With a strong focus on compliance and safety, RBS is proficient in handling Dangerous Goods, including Class 1 (explosives) and Class 7 (radioactive materials) – making them a trusted partner for critical and sensitive shipments.

Key Services: Project Logistics – Oversized, heavy-lift, and high-value shipments for industries such as mining, oil & gas, and chemicals, managed with precision and end-to-end coordination; Air Freight – Dangerous goods handling, express shipments, groupage, and temperature-sensitive air cargo services; Sea Freight – Breakbulk, chartering, FCL, LCL, and port handling services tailored to unique cargo needs; Land Freight – LTL, FTL, rail transport, and specialized trucking for OOG and sensitive cargo; Pharma and Healthcare Logistics – GDP-compliant transport, dual-temperature capabilities, and 24/7 dedicated teams across Georgia, Armenia, and Azerbaijan; Dangerous Goods – Expert handling of all hazard classes with full compliance, including air transport of explosives and radioactive materials.
Beverage and Tobacco Logistics – Regular shipments of Georgian wine and imports for global brands like The Coca-Cola Company; Diplomatic Cargo – Secure, confidential handling of diplomatic consignments with discretion and efficiency.

Sarens places a 240-tonne cycling and pedestrian bridge over the city’s busy ring road.

Sarens recently completed a key phase in a major infrastructure project in Hasselt, Belgium, involving the placement of a 240-tonne cycling and pedestrian bridge over the city’s busy ring road. This operation marked the third stage in a four-phase project and brought together complex engineering, expert planning, and flawless execution by the Sarens Belgium team.

The bridge was first transported to the quay using two sets of SPMTs fitted with turntables. There, it was transferred onto a barge with the help of an LTM 1650-8.1 and a Sarens AC700, configured as a 500-tonne crane due to scheduling constraints.

Once the bridge arrived in Hasselt by water, the Sarens team mobilised quickly. Cranes were set up along the quay and SPMTs prepared for the next stage. A three-crane tandem lift was then used to carefully unload the bridge from the barge. The LTM 1500-8.1 and an AC700 first lifted one side of the bridge together, using a triangle to bring it closer. When the first AC700 was able to bear the 145-tonne load alone, the 500-tonne crane was unhooked, and the bridge was gently slewed between the two remaining cranes. At the opposite end of the structure, a second AC700 helped guide the bridge into final position onto the SPMTs.

The final move took place during the early hours of a Sunday morning. At precisely 2:00 a.m., the team rolled the cranes, trucks, and bridge to position. At sunrise, the team lifted the bridge above the ring road. By midday, the cranes had been demobilised and the bridge was securely positioned—marking the successful completion of a highly coordinated, high-stakes operation.

Local media widely covered the event. The installation was featured on TVL News, VRT NWS, and a LinkedIn update, celebrating the engineering behind the scenes.

Now in place, the new bridge will serve as a vital link for cyclists and pedestrians in Hasselt. Residents across Limburg are invited to vote on a name for this new addition to the city’s sustainable transport network, set to become a familiar landmark for years to come.

A month at sea leaves its mark, forming habits and patterns.

So, the first encounter with Port Elizabeth and then Durban was a significant change that left an impression on Kjetil Borch. And while there is something good about having solid ground under your feet again, the arrival in South Africa was also a break from the rocking monotony seafarers must learn to love.

Having sailed from Le Havre via Gothenburg to the southern tip of Africa, Kjetil Borch reflects on his time surrounded by the vast blue ocean with a sense of fulfilment.

“It has been an eventful time aboard the Höegh Target. A time I will never forget. Wonderful people and a unique insight into the camaraderie aboard a deep-sea vessel, exciting tasks, the feeling of increasingly mastering the work and the good feeling of being able to contribute positively. Both professionally and socially.”

“But it was also a good feeling to come ashore. And an impressive encounter with the operation that a port call is. Being aboard a giant like the Höegh Target when it docks is a wild experience. Watching the stevedores’ work is fascinating. How they communicate and have their own, understood language and hand signals. Seeing them park the endless rows of cars with military precision, so no space is wasted, and the decks are packed with cars, is simply impressive,” says Kjetil Borch.

He is now in Durban, where he has been for almost two weeks. South Africa provides the backdrop for the next—and final—chapter of his encounter with shipping.

During his stay at the office in Durban, Kjetil worked closely with Sondre Nilsen, Head of Port and Cargo Operations – in Sub-Saharan Africa. Besides putting in the hours at the office, Kjetil Borch attended stakeholders’ meetings, discussions and feedback with port operation and authorities with fellow RO/RO companies.

The shipping world, with all the different challenges and possibilities deep-sea operations represent, demands a well-balanced approach in cooperating with the many stakeholders to ensure and develop the cargo operations at berth, Borch says before pinpointing an important personal experience during his time in Durban: “I met my family outside Durban and got to see the whaling station where my grandfather worked decades ago. I had saved some whale-chocolate produced in my home county, as a symbolic salute to an industry and history that is long gone, reminding me of the vast changes in the maritime industry.”

“In South Africa, people generally start their day at 5:30 or earlier, to beat the heat and make the most of the day. I get it, as I got up at 05:50 and enjoyed the burning sunrise with a cup of Chinese tea on my balcony. I could get used to that!”

“It has been another exciting look into the work that is deep-sea freight. Offices worldwide are a prerequisite for maintaining a global portfolio of routes and supply lines. Agents in all countries. People work together to ensure the cargo arrives safely on time in every corner of the world. Fortunately, I have also had the opportunity to continue building on the work I did aboard the Höegh Target,” says the former rower.

Soon the journey goes homeward. To Norway and Oslo and the HA headquarters. And to the final reporting and summarizing of everything Kjetil Borch has experienced and learned.

With a baggage of good experiences and good impressions of shipping.

“It has been a very interesting encounter with shipping. Much has been as expected, but much has been completely new,” Borch says and continues:”It has been a great experience entering into a large organization that is big enough to be global in its outlook and footprint and small enough to be personal. Everyone knows everyone, and there is good collegiality,” Kjetil Borch says.

His summary of his stint at Höegh is very positive: “No two days are the same. Which is a big part of why shipping is fun. There is always something happening. It is a dynamic industry I’ve enjoyed my time in, and which suits me well with the educational background I have.”

“I’ve met a gathering of very skilled people – both on the vessel and in the offices. I have been listened to, and people in the company are very open to new perspectives. An important part of creating great results.”

According to the former Olympian medallist and world champion, rowing and shipping have things in common: Even if you are at the top, you can’t rest.

You must work hard and continuously develop, finding all the competitive advantages you can, as Borch puts it.

And according to Kjetil Borch, the best experience has been to see how being a Höegh Autoliner means the same all over the world: “Seeing how the Höegh culture lives in all corners of the world and takes root in departments that are far apart has been a great thing to witness. Despite different cultures and backgrounds, people work towards the same goal.”