A leading shipmanagement company with more than 200 vessels under management is adopting a multifaceted approach to new fuels, combining technical ammonia training, practical methanol preparation and extensive biofuel testing
Wallem, which celebrated 120 years of operations in 2023 and marks its centenary in Hong Kong this year, is strategically balancing preparatory training with practical experience as the maritime industry navigates the complexities of alternative fuel adoption.
At the same time, the company is enhancing navigation and watchkeeping protocols, promoting crew diversity through initiatives aimed at achieving gender balance and expanding its recruitment beyond traditional seafarer pools from the Philippines and India.
Addressing new fuels, Wallem Group managing director of shipmanagement, Ioannis Stefanou, says the challenges are clear and present but “our existing training platform gives us an advantage, particularly with our LNG experience across a substantial fleet. LNG proved less complex than initially feared,” he adds. “The key lesson was the value of practical experience; having trainees witness actual operations and bunkering procedures to complement classroom training.”
The company has also developed significant expertise in managing dual-fuel pure car and truck carriers (PCTCs), using its experience with dual-fuel tankers as a foundation for training. “As probably the largest third-party manager for PCTCs, we’ve established a robust platform. We don’t anticipate issues with handling the next generation of these vessels.”
Mr Stefanou notes that while methanol-powered vessels are currently limited in number, ammonia-powered ships remain largely experimental. Industrywide experience is virtually non-existent, he says, and despite industry hype, client interest in ammonia-powered vessels remains limited within the Wallem customer base. For now, Wallem is exploring partnerships with technology providers to access simulation and testbed facilities. Ammonia training is currently underway for shore personnel while the company has conducted methanol training courses for both shore-based teams and crew.
Wallem has also gained valuable insights into biofuels through extensive testing across various vessel types and engine configurations.
In parallel with its alternative fuel initiatives, Wallem has introduced advanced bridge simulation training in Manila and India to enhance crew resilience against unforeseen circumstances and addressed issues related to watchkeeping and potential human error. “We emphasise real-time simulation with challenging scenarios that create genuine stress responses – this is where effective management skills develop,” says Mr Stefanou, adding a key concern remains over-reliance on technology. “Critical thinking is extremely important – crew must not to rely solely on what machines and automation provide.”
In addition to these efforts, Wallem is diversifying its crew base beyond traditional seafaring nations such as the Philippines and India. The company is focusing on gender diversification and expanding its Chinese crew base to align with its growing Chinese client portfolio. It has also successfully integrated full Angolan crews on vessels in collaboration with Sonangol.
Looking ahead to 2030, Mr Stefanou identifies technology implementation as a priority for operational improvements, “Our critical priority is leveraging technology to simplify operations. Rising industry requirements demand technological solutions to enhance efficiency, or we risk falling behind.”
Reaffirming Wallem’s boutique approach despite its scale, he concludes, “The ships of the future will not be managed by the managers of the past. Despite our 123-year heritage, we’re constantly evolving, integrating new technologies, talent and capabilities to meet tomorrow’s challenges.”
