Rob Willmington
Markets Editor
Rob has two decades of experience in maritime data, research & analysis and feature writing. He has contributed to numerous B2B maritime publications including Fairplay, Fairplay Solutions, Safety at Sea, JOC and Containerisation International. In addition, he has been involved in various research projects including the IHS Markit multiclient study: ‘What bunker fuel for the high seas?'.
Rob has a particular interest in global shipbuilding, ship design and technology and vessel supply matters in the container, cruise/ferry, dry cargo, ro-ro, vehicle carrier and tanker vessel sectors.
Latest From Rob Willmington
MOL plots further cruise expansion as second ship enters service
Expansion of MOL’s cruise division is part of the Japanese shipping group’s plans to add to its non-cargo carrying vessel fleet to counter the volatility of shipping markets
Shipbuilding: Capacity ramps up as China extends its dominance
With most top tier shipyards having a four year or more backlog of work, further capacity is being introduced to meet demand for new ships to replace the ageing fleet. However, the sector is suffering a labour shortage due to a lack of young people joining the industry. Furthermore, an increase in shipbuilding contract disputes could arise from more newbuildings being ordered from inexperienced, resurrected shipyards
ACL’s Abbott confident of ILA deal as transatlantic box trade stabilises
ACL chief executive believes the port automation dispute between the International Longshoremen’s Association and the United States Maritime Alliance will be resolved amicably without significant bloodshed
MSC buys up more secondhand boxships as demand for capacity remains high
Recent containership sale and purchase activity included a pair of 4,500 teu units purchased by a German tonnage provider, while MSC adds to its tally of secondhand buys
Boxship charter rates stay strong on continued limited supply
The Hamburg and Bremen Shipbrokers’ Association said recent strong demand for 1,800 teu units has pushed charter rates up by $1,000 per day in the past week
Ship recycling rising in final quarter of 2024
Despite an uptick since October, demolition volumes in 2024 look set to record their lowest levels in 17 years