Preparing seafarers in the Caribbean for the fuel transition

Policymakers, maritime educators, trainers and industry stakeholders from across the Caribbean and beyond gathered in Port of Spain, Trinidad and Tobago (3-7 August) to strengthen regional capacity to prepare seafarers for the safe operation of ships using alternative fuels and new technologies.

The regional seminar on alternative fuels and new technologies for the safe operation of ships brought together policy, training and practice. It formed part of the coordinated efforts of the IMO Secretariat to support Member States in strengthening maritime training capacity for the transition to alternative fuels and new technologies, in line with the latest regulatory developments on training provisions.

Hosted by MTCC Caribbean at the University of Trinidad and Tobago (UTT), the five-day seminar included technical sessions, interactive workshops, scenario-based exercises, and practical demonstrations. Participants explored the safety, technical and operational characteristics of ammonia, methanol and hydrogen, with particular attention to their properties, hazards, handling, bunkering and emergency response.

A key objective was to strengthen the capacity of maritime educators and trainers to translate these developments into effective, competency-based training programmes. Participants took part in practical exercises and micro-teaching sessions designed to enhance their ability to develop and deliver training for seafarers and shore-based personnel.

The seminar also highlighted the importance of connecting regulatory developments with practical experience. In May 2026, IMO's Maritime Safety Committee (MSC 111) approved Interim Guidelines on training for seafarers on ships using methyl/ethyl alcohol as fuel (STCW.7/Circ.26) and Interim Guidelines on training for seafarers on ships using ammonia as Fuel (STCW.7/Circ.27),

Participants gained practical insights through visits and engagement with industry. At the Yara TRINGEN Complex in Savonetta, Point Lisas, which includes ammonia production plants, storage facilities and port facilities, Yara's ammonia experts provided safety demonstrations and practical training, including the use of personal protective equipment (PPE) and ammonia-related emergency procedures. The seminar also benefited from experts from petrochemical company Proman, who shared practical industry perspectives on the production and use of methanol as a marine fuel, including experiences from their ongoing collaboration with UTT cadets, who have had the opportunity to gain practical experience on board Proman's methanol-fuelled ships.

The seminar was funded by IMO under its project on the training of seafarers for ships using alternative fuels and new technologies, which is being implemented with the World Maritime University (WMU).

The IMO Secretariat continues to work closely with Member States and international partners to support training of seafarers serving on ships using alternative fuels and new technologies, contributing to a competent workforce capable of supporting the maritime energy transition safely and effectively.

Read more on preparing seafarers for the energy transition.