The Nautical Institute Singapore Conference 2026 Brings Together Maritime Leaders to Address Seaworthiness and Seafarers in a Changing World

The Nautical Institute Singapore Conference 2026 will return to Singapore on 20 August 2026 at the Furama City Centre Singapore, bringing together maritime leaders and professionals to discuss some of the industry’s most pressing operational and human challenges.
The conference will be honoured by Ang Wee Keong, Chief Executive of the Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA). Mr Ang leads one of the world’s busiest and most strategic maritime hubs, overseeing Singapore’s port operations and global connectivity network spanning more than 600 ports worldwide.
Bringing together leaders from across the maritime sector, the conference will feature speakers from legal, insurance, ship management, crewing, training, and welfare backgrounds to share perspectives on operational safety, seafarer development, and crew wellbeing in a rapidly changing industry.
Keynote Addresses
Delivering keynote addresses at the conference are:
- Nick Potter — an internationally experienced executive with extensive commercial and technical leadership experience.
- Sakura Kuma — Executive Officer of Mitsui O.S.K. Lines and Managing Director of MOL (Asia Oceania).
Key Discussions
Seaworthiness
This session will examine key safety and operational topics surrounding seaworthiness, including risks relating to mis-declared cargo, stowage and securing of break bulk cargo including charterers’ responsibilities and the master’s obligations, seafarers’ hours of work and rest and a focus on navigation and passage planning.
Seafaring as a Career
This conference will also examine the critical issues affecting seafarers, including recruitment, cadet placement, retention of experienced mariners, the well documented shortage of qualified officers and the effect on fleet operations and safety, and the transition of seafarers to shoreside roles.
Seafarer Wellbeing
Another important discussion will focus on the growing security and welfare challenges facing seafarers in today’s volatile global environment. Topics include sanctions and dark fleet operations, regional conflicts, piracy, and onboard issues such as harassment, bullying at sea, and access to communication and support systems.
About The Nautical Institute (Singapore)
The Nautical Institute is a non-governmental organisation (NGO) with consultative status at the International Maritime Organization (IMO). The Singapore branch was officially established in 2015. It serves as a platform for seafarers and maritime professionals to engage in high-level dialogue, advocate for operational excellence, and strengthen safety culture across the industry.
Conference Information
Date: 20 August 2026
Venue: Furama City Centre Singapore
Weblink: https://evnk.co/nautinstsg2026
Contact Us to Secure Your Sponsorship
Vice Chairman
Capt. Ken Ellam
Email: k.ellam@solis-marine.com
Phone: +65 9012 4644
Branch Contact
Capt. Yves Vandenborn
Email: singapore.branch@nautinst.org
Phone: +65 9879 8606
Media Contact
For media inquiries, interviews, or additional information, please contact:
Email: ni2026@mediacomz.com

