The Nautical Institute Singapore Conference 2026 will return to Singapore on 20 August, bringing maritime leaders and professionals together to examine operational and workforce challenges facing the industry.

Hosted at Furama City Centre Singapore, the event will be held under the theme “Seaworthiness and Seafarers in a Changing World”. Its programme will focus on vessel seaworthiness, operational safety, workforce sustainability, geopolitical pressures and the wellbeing of seafarers.

Speakers from legal, insurance, ship management, crewing, training and welfare backgrounds are expected to contribute perspectives on safety, professional development and crew welfare. The conference is also intended to provide a forum for in-depth industry discussion and networking.

Ang Wee Keong, Chief Executive of the Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore, will be an honoured participant at the conference. In his role at the MPA, Ang oversees the operations and international connectivity of Singapore’s maritime hub, whose network extends to more than 600 ports worldwide.

Keynote addresses will be delivered by Nick Potter, an executive with international commercial and technical leadership experience, and Sakura Kuma, Executive Officer of Mitsui O.S.K.

The seaworthiness discussions will cover a range of safety and operational issues. These include risks linked to misdeclared cargo, the stowage and securing of breakbulk cargo, charterers’ responsibilities and the obligations of masters. Working and rest hours for seafarers, navigation practices and passage planning are also included in the programme.

A separate discussion stream will consider seafaring as a career. Topics will include recruitment difficulties, cadet placement, the retention of experienced mariners and the shortage of qualified officers. The programme will also examine the transition of seafarers from shipboard employment into shoreside positions.

Seafarer wellbeing will form another central part of the conference. Sessions are expected to address security and welfare concerns arising from sanctions, dark fleet operations, regional conflicts and piracy. Onboard harassment and seafarers’ access to communications will also be discussed.

The event is organised by The Nautical Institute Singapore Branch and continues the branch’s established conference format of gathering maritime professionals to consider current industry priorities. Through its combined focus on vessel condition, safe operations, career sustainability and welfare, the 2026 programme places seafarers at the centre of discussions about a changing maritime environment.