Policymakers, maritime educators, trainers and industry representatives from the Caribbean and other regions gathered in Port of Spain, Trinidad and Tobago, from 3 to 7 August for a five-day seminar focused on preparing seafarers for alternative fuels and new ship technologies.

Hosted by MTCC Caribbean at the University of Trinidad and Tobago, the regional seminar combined regulatory, educational and operational perspectives. It formed part of the IMO Secretariat’s efforts to help Member States strengthen maritime training capacity as the industry transitions towards new fuels and technologies.

The programme included technical sessions, interactive workshops, scenario-based exercises and practical demonstrations. Participants examined the safety, technical and operational characteristics of ammonia, methanol and hydrogen, including fuel properties, hazards, handling requirements, bunkering procedures and emergency response.

A central objective was to improve the ability of maritime educators and trainers to turn technical and regulatory developments into competency-based training programmes. Practical exercises and micro-teaching sessions were used to support the development and delivery of courses for both seafarers and shore-based personnel.

The seminar also addressed the link between regulatory requirements and operational experience. According to the source material, IMO’s Maritime Safety Committee at MSC 111 approved interim training guidelines in May 2026 for seafarers serving on ships using methyl or ethyl alcohol as fuel, under STCW.7/Circ.26, and ammonia as fuel, under STCW.7/Circ.27.

Industry engagement formed part of the programme. Participants visited the Yara TRINGEN Complex in Savonetta, Point Lisas, which comprises ammonia production plants, storage infrastructure and port facilities. Yara ammonia specialists delivered safety demonstrations and practical instruction covering personal protective equipment and ammonia-related emergency procedures.

Experts from petrochemical company Proman provided perspectives on the production and use of methanol as a marine fuel. They also discussed the company’s collaboration with University of Trinidad and Tobago cadets, who have gained practical experience aboard Proman’s methanol-fuelled ships.

The seminar was funded by IMO through its project on training seafarers for ships using alternative fuels and new technologies, implemented with the World Maritime University. IMO said it continues to cooperate with Member States and international partners to develop a workforce capable of supporting the maritime energy transition safely and effectively.