Pratik Bijlani –
On June 3, Seaspan Corporation, a leading independent charter owner and operator of containerships, celebrated the twentieth anniversary of its crewing division in Mumbai at ITC Maratha, Mumbai. Seaspan Corporation, founded in 2001, quickly evolved into a major participant in the worldwide marine business, known for its large fleet and uncompromising commitment to operational excellence. Seaspan Crew Management India Private Ltd. (Seaspan Crew Management) was established in 2004 in Mumbai to lead the company’s crewing operations. Over the last two decades, Seaspan has reached significant milestones; including as increasing its fleet to over 160 ships and serving some of the world’s top liner firms. The company’s emphasis on long-term, fixed-rate charters has offered stability and predictable cash flows, cementing its position as a dependable partner in the shipping sector.
Seaspan’s success has been built on a commitment to innovation and sustainability. The corporation has made significant investments vessel efficiency and fuel transition to lower its environmental footprint, in line with worldwide initiatives to combat climate change. This involves using fuel-efficient vessel designs, using cleaner fuels, and participating in industry activities that promote sustainable shipping practices.
Seaspan Crew Management is celebrating its 20th anniversary and intends to build on its legacy of innovation, sustainability, and operational excellence. With a strong workforce and a clear vision for the future, Seaspan is well-positioned to sustain its marine sector leadership for many years.
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– Promoting long-term growth and operational excellence
Torsten Pederson, Chief Operating Officer, gives insights on the company’s vision and objectives, as well as future improvements.
Seaspan’s vision and mission…
Since Seaspan’s foundation in Vancouver 24 years ago, the company has prioritised operational excellence and unique customer collaborations. This focus has been deeply established in the organisation and has served it well throughout the years. Seaspan’s innovative integrated operating model acquired appeal among the world’s top container shipping lines, prompting the firm to clarify its vision and mission. We want to be industry leaders and strive for long-term, sustainable growth. Making these concepts more obvious has enabled Seaspan to accelerate quality growth over the last 4-5 years, propelling it to become one of the world’s leading owners of contemporary container ships.
Strategic benefits Mumbai serves as a major hub…
20 years ago, Seaspan chose to add Mumbai to its existing management centres in Hong Kong and Vancouver. The primary goal was to provide a solid platform for crew management activities, with Indian seafarers being the majority of Seaspan’s global pool. Mumbai’s strong maritime skill pool has been a big advantage, and the location has enabled Seaspan to pursue bright personnel from other disciplines. Today, our Mumbai office manages IT, purchasing, finance, and business optimisation. This year, Seaspan expanded to include technical ship management services in Mumbai, and the firm expects these services to develop significantly as it continues on its upward trajectory.
Envision AI and automation evolving in maritime…
AI and automation are the upcoming wave in the maritime industry. Historically, high connectivity costs have impeded digital transformation projects in shipping. However, new prospects for low-orbit connection have enhanced speed and lowered prices. Seaspan has outfitted its whole fleet with StarLink connectivity, enabling IoT solutions and big data analytics while improving crew welfare. We need a methodical approach to digital transformation activities that is driven by business requirements. As we open up for new projects, I am confident that we will come across ideas that we haven’t considered yet. That is arguably what thrills me the most about technological advancements: the ability to find entirely new solutions to age-old problems.
– Managing Seaspan’s fleet expansion with thorough planning and a devoted team
Manoj Gandhi, VP Fleet Personnel, discusses his positive experience, rapid growth, and staying current with marine safety standards and laws.
Positive Experience…
I joined Seaspan in September 2013 as General Manager SCMIPL, where I oversaw the planning and placement of seafarers throughout the fleet. In May 2019, I was promoted to Director of Fleet Personnel, followed by Vice President of Fleet Personnel in April 2024. I have implemented various basic improvements to streamline operations, resulting in increased efficiency and economies of scale without sacrificing quality. Some of my most rewarding experiences have included streamlining in-house promotion within ranks, increasing the intake of cadets and trainee ratings, and completing the takeover of 25 LNG dual-fuel vessels by December 2024.
Rapid Growth…
Seaspan attributes its rapid growth to thorough prior planning, breaking down results into smaller workflows with timetables, and having a focused team with a positive can-do attitude. The Fleet Personnel Team possesses these characteristics, and he emphasises the need of a dedicated and efficient team in attaining the company’s growth goals.
Staying Current with Marine Safety Standards and Laws…
Seaspan’s dedication to strong safety standards is driven by its executive leadership. Seaspan guarantees that seafarers are trained for important occupations and works closely with classification societies to keep up with changing rules. “Seaspan walks the talk,” he says, emphasising the company’s aggressive safety and compliance policies.
– Navigating through innovation and expansion
Dinesh Jairam, GM Fleet Personnel speaks about the remarkable advancements and dual fuels.
Remarkable advancements…
I joined Seaspan in January 2003 and have witnessed the company’s growth from two ships to approximately 160. Seaspan’s ongoing development and innovation, including the shift from normal MC engines to ME engines, RTFlex, and now DF ships powered by ME-GI engines and clean fuel ships. Seaspan enters the car carrier industry with new builds joining the fleet. Despite trade disruptions, Seaspan has maintained its 50% lead as the largest non-operating owner by constantly innovating and enhancing fleet operations.
Dual fuels…
It is critical to meticulously design and improve seafarers’ training capabilities for DF-LNG and clean fuel ships. Seafarers are constantly looking to work on newer technology ships, develop new skills, and remain ahead of the competition. Investing in seafarers for a mutually beneficial future is critical for managing the company’s long-term growth and competitiveness in the market.
– Improving operational efficiency and responsiveness with strategic expansion in Mumbai
Rahul Khurana, Fleet Manager informs about creating a technical office in Mumbai and accessing the talent pool.
Creating a technical office in Mumbai…
Opening a technical office in Mumbai will help manage and maintain Seaspan’s constantly expanding fleet. The strategic location facilitates greater coordination with Asian time zones, complementing the Vancouver and Hong Kong centres and offering smooth round-the-clock monitoring and assistance to the fleet. This increases overall efficiency and responsiveness, ensuring timely responses to vessel needs.
Accessing the Talent Pool…
India has long had a substantial population of qualified maritime professionals and technical skills. By establishing a technical office in Mumbai, Seaspan can tap into this skill pool, optimising the maintenance and operation of its growing fleet. The site also allows for better collaboration between the vessels and other Seaspan offices, resulting in increased efficiency and synergy.
– Promoting the integration of emerging technology and sustainability into seafarer training
Gurmeet Ranghar, Training and Development Manager focusses on dual-fuel training and preparing seafarers for upcoming technology and sustainability practices
Dual-fuel training…
The use of green fuels and dual-fuel ships necessitates a fundamental shift in safety and technical training. Seaspan has created detailed training courses centred on engineering, automation, and instrumentation. The introduction of augmented reality and immersive learning tools has improved seafarer training, ensuring that they are ready for new technology and sustainability practices.
Upcoming Technology and Sustainability Practices…
The necessity of ongoing training and development, remaining current on developing technology, and incorporating new teaching tools such as AR and VR. We will stay up with it with initial help from makers and our integrated basics training.