Tanker conference highlights industry challenges, opportunities and excellence

Riviera’s October Tanker Shipping & Trade Conference brought together key industry players to discuss critical issues facing the sector. Attendees praised the one day conference format, noting it delivered valuable insights, practical strategies, and an expanded network that will inform their approaches in this rapidly evolving market.

Participants gave high marks for the timely updates on crucial regulatory developments impacting the tanker sector. This included the implications of the EU Emissions Trading System for compliance and cost management, as well as the effects of FuelEU Maritime on fuel choices and pooling strategies. Attendees also valued opportunities to engage directly with leading shipyards and repair facilities, exploring newbuilding, retrofitting and repair options while gaining access to technical specifications and insights into the latest shipbuilding trends.

Throughout the conference, practical strategies for enhancing operational efficiency were explored inside the conference hall and outside in the exhibition area. Discussions focused on optimising voyage planning and fuel consumption, implementing crew training programmes alongside behavioural nudges to promote energy savings, digital tools for data analysis and decision support, and the economic viability of scrubber technology.

Conference programme highlights included insights into the tanker market’s resurgence, driven by increased Asian demand, the effects of European regulations and sanctions on operations, and short-term and long-term market projections. Strategies for navigating market volatility and uncertainties were also presented.

Decarbonisation strategies that went beyond general overviews to explore specific technologies and approaches were also shared. Topics covered including wind propulsion, air lubrication systems, and carbon capture and storage technology.

There were also case studies on actionable data management and digitalisation strategies that included options for data standardisation and validation. High-frequency data and artificial intelligence were discussed for their potential to provide real-time insights, while digital twin technology was presented as a tool for performance analysis and decision support.

Networking was a key focus of the event, with structured opportunities available during coffee breaks, lunch sessions and a drinks reception. The conference concluded with a very well-attended Tanker Shipping & Trade Dinner, with guests flying in from different parts of the globe to attend. The evening concluded with presentation of awards celebrating excellence within the sector.

Riviera’s Tanker Shipping & Trade Conference will return in 2025. Next year will also see the company’s International Chemical & Product Tanker Conference return in April.