One of the world’s newest and most luxurious ships, the Seabourn Quest, made her maiden visit to Sydney, arriving at Circular Quay on 16th February for an overnight stay.

The US$300 million ship features possibly the most exclusive all-suite accommodation available at sea as well as the largest spa at sea on any luxury vessel; a 1060-square metre indoor/outdoor facility spanning two decks, providing the ultimate pampering experience with stunning ocean views.

Read more: Seabourn Quest Makes Sydney Maiden Call

A 13,208 TEU vessel ordered by Hong Kong’s Orient Overseas Container Lines at Samsung Heavy Industries in South Korea and due for delivery at the end of January has suffered damage during a routine engine test.

Read more: Ultra-Large OOCL Boxship Damaged During Tests

A growing Japanese cruise market has prompted Carnival Corporation to expand its 2014 Japan cruise programme for Princess Cruises, which brings a second ship to the trade.

The Diamond Princess will join the Sun Princess for a cruise programme from three homeports – Tokyo (Yokohama), Kobe, and an industry first, Otaru near Sapporo on Hokkaido.

Read more: Princess Cruises Expands 2014 Japan Cruise Programme

Some Fishermen who were fishing in the waters of Quang Binh province, in central Vietnam, must have thought their birthdays had all come at once when they happened upon a cargo ship carrying thousands of tonnes of cargo adrift with nobody on board.

Read more: Abandoned Ship Discovered Afloat

Japanese Shipping Giant Kawasaki Kisen Kaisha is to sell three post-panamax bulkers under construction to Wisdom Marine in a leaseback deal that could improve its cashflow, according to a report in Lloyd’s List.

Read more: K Line to Sell Three Post-Panamax Bulkers

It is not often I get the chance to share some of the happenings from my adopted homeport of Hobart. The harbour city is of course very well known for, amongst others, the Sydney – Hobart yacht race. But there is another marine event that deserves mention; The MyState Australian Wooden Boat Festival.

Held every two years in Tasmania’s capital city, this spectacular gathering of historic and contemporary wooden boats is on again from 8 to 11 February.

Read more: Hobart’s Wooden Festival a Must-see