More than 600 delegates at this year’s OSJ Conference in London heard West Africa, Brazil and the Arabian Gulf now drive global action as leaders there prioritise energy security as others hesitate. There were also actionable steps to transform ageing fleets into revenue streams through the judicious use of AI and alternative fuels.

Traditional cycles were declared obsolete. The future requires orchestration across a splintered global economy. Ageing fleets must not be seen as a threat, but a modernisation opportunity that must be acted on today. Assets not future-proofed by 2026 are likely to be seen as ’operational liabilities’.

The time has also come to move beyond spot services, as energy majors now award 3–5-year ‘maritime-as-a-service’ tenders that prioritise guaranteed uptime.

Delegates heard that smart port solutions powered by AI are already reducing service sourcing from three hours to 45 seconds, so early adopters have an immediate edge. Remote-pilot vessels slated for Q4 2027 also hold the promise of 30% fuel reductions through advanced operations.

The conference exhibition delivered immediate ROI by showcasing the latest products and tools, enabling owners to deliver more cargo with fewer vessels. The opportunity to study designs and technology first-hand provided those in attendance with a competitive edge that no report, however well-written, can replicate.

Networking facilitated vital partnerships. As one participant noted, the sector requires "partners for the decade, not for the quarter" to withstand the transition.

The gala dinner fostered these connections and provided a convivial setting to celebrate industry excellence.

HSBC and Bibby Marine won the John Westwood Deal of the Year, sponsored by CSO Group, for pioneering zero-emissions eCSOV financing, signalling capital’s pivot to green assets. ADNOC L&S won the Environmental Award, sponsored by DP Marine, for slashing OSV carbon footprints, underscoring viable decarbonisation paths.

Helix Energy Solutions won the Safety Award, sponsored by Vroon; while Huisman won the Offshore Renewables Award, sponsored by Opsealog. ABB Ability Marine Pilot Control won the Dynamic Positioning Award, sponsored by Damen; and Dipai won Innovation of the Year, sponsored by Corvus Energy, boosting operational precision amid volatile markets.

Wind Archer (Marco Polo Marine/PKR Offshore) won the Offshore Energy Vessel of the Year Award, sponsored by Marine Technologies; while Rem Offshore won the ESG Award, sponsored by Caterpillar. Cyan Renewables won Shipowner of the Year, sponsored by Seaonics; Captain Mohamed Al Ali (ADNOC L&S) won Industry Leader, sponsored by Uptime; and Tor Allen Widing (Fearnley Offshore Supply) was recognised with a Lifetime Achievement Award, sponsored by DNV.

Do not miss out on the vital industry intelligence and partnerships required to sustain and prosper in the transition ahead. Register now for the upcoming Singapore (September), Brazil (October) and Middle East (December) OSJ Conferences.

For more information on attendance, sponsorship and exhibiting, please email ian.glen@rivieramm.com