Page 36 - ΝΑΥΤΙΚΑ ΧΡΟΝΙΚΑ - ΜΑΙΟΣ 2024

MANAGEMENT
❷ Innovation seems to be a one-way The M/V Aquataurus,
street for shipping companies to meet managed by Carras
contemporary demands and require- (Hellas) S.A. became
the world’s first
ments. What challenges does innova- vessel to earn the ABS
tion pose for the training of seafarers? Biofuel-1 Notation. Upon the completion of the current new-
Acknowledging the invaluable contribution of
seafarers to the shipping industry is crucial, par-
ticularly in this challenging and fast-changing
era. In recent years, with the introduction in the
past decade alone of electronic main engines,
ballast water treatment systems, scrubbers, and
other new technologies, the training of seafarers
has been of paramount importance. Significant
amounts of training are a prerequisite for sea-
farers to operate this machinery efficiently and
safely on a daily basis. In addition to technological
innovation, seafarers are expected to monitor,
log, and send increasing amounts of data to ful-
fil both charter party and emissions monitoring
obligations. At Carras (Hellas) S.A., continuous
training, whether ashore or onboard, in person or
via e-modules, is a decisive factor in the safe and
efficient operation of the vessels.
Innovation does pose a challenge due to the sheer
amount of new technology, rules, and regulations
to understand and comply with. There is no doubt
that a structured training programme, starting as
soon as possible after the adoption of new legis-
lation or technology, is the most efficient way to
stay up-to-date with the innovation that shipping
demands.
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❸ What does the future hold for medi-
um-sized companies amidst signif-
icant challenges on the environ-
mental and technological fronts?
Provided that a company stays ahead of the
forthcoming environmental and technologi-
cal regulations and innovations, which Carras
(Hellas) S.A. has managed to do, one could
argue that these changes present an oppor-
tunity rather than a threat. Our counterpar-
ties are looking to work with medium-sized
companies whose modern, efficient, and
well-managed fleets will not cause them
operational problems and who are on top
of the latest environmental regulations and
technological advances. This simplifies their
day-to-day operations.
In our experience, charterers are willing
to discuss partnering and co-investing
with select owners in order to implement
upgraded paint schemes and install ener-
gy-saving devices. This is mutually benefi-
cial, allowing them to save on fuel and reduce
GHG emissions while increasing the effi-
ciency of the vessels under our management.
❹ What are your plans for the further
development of Carras (Hellas)
S.A.? Will you consider expanding
to other types and sizes of vessels?
building programme, Carras (Hellas) S.A. will
have a total of 15 modern, eco-bulk carriers
in service under its management.
Carras (Hellas) S.A. would certainly like to
expand into other areas and is willing to
consider investing in other sectors, either
as standalone projects or as joint ventures
with partners. In addition, there is no doubt
that the company enjoys an excellent and
well-deserved reputation in dry bulk ship
management, which we would like to lever-
age by potentially offering third-party man-
agement to other owners as well.
❺ What, in your view, are the lead-
ership skills required of a ship-
ping company principal in today’s
world?
The leadership skills required are certainly
evolving as our industry changes. The core
requirements of hard work, trust, and the
ability to build relationships are a given, as in
most industries. However, the current rapid
pace of technological and regulatory change
means that it is also crucial to remain agile,
learn quickly, and show flexible leadership.