In a series of recent executive actions, U.S. President Donald Trump has reignited discussions surrounding American influence in key maritime corridors. His policies concerning the "Gulf of America" and the Panama Canal have sparked geopolitical tensions and raised questions about global trade stability.
One of Trump’s most controversial proposals has been his call for the United States to regain control of the Panama Canal, which was handed over to Panama in 1999 under the Torrijos-Carter Treaties. Trump argues that growing Chinese influence over canal operations poses a national security risk, citing the presence of Hong Kong-based Hutchison Ports, which operates terminals at both ends of the canal. Barry discusses the effect of these two executive orders and how they may affect the price we pay for all our goods.

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In the vast and sometimes unregulated expanse of the world’s oceans, a clandestine network of vessels operates beyond the reach of international law. These ships, commonly referred to as the “dark fleet”, navigate global waters without a legitimate flag state, engaging in activities that range from sanctions evasion to illicit trade, environmental crimes, and human trafficking. Their lack of legal oversight makes them a serious threat to maritime security, environmental protection, and geopolitical stability. Barry explains how and why these ships exist.

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We are MCA accredited and offer orals Prep, via e learning, blended learning and 121 sessions via Teams as well as many other courses and educational support.

Society has labelled the generations starting from the Silent Generation in the 1920's to the latest generation - known as Generation Alpha. They have been labelled based upon their socio, economic and technological place in history. But how do these generations relate to our seafarers? Barry discusses some of the possible traits of seafarers base upon their generational label and considers what kind of seafarers generation Alpha will make. We are all individuals but the generation labels help identify our place in technology at sea. From no screen to small screen changes are afoot.

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We are MCA accredited and offer orals Prep, via e learning, blended learning and 121 sessions via Teams as well as many other courses and educational support.

Ongoing digitisation of the Global Maritime Distress and Safety System forms a significant part of the new standards being enforced under SOLAS 24. With these changes comes a further recognition of the importance of incorporating data and AI into the everyday tasks faced by seafarers. The expediency of alerting authorities and other vessels when urgent help is required to save life, can only improve when those signals are digitised and contain advanced data.

Barry discusses the SOLAS 24 changes, how AI is being introduced in a positive way and what we can expect the IMO to deliver in the 2024 updates. SOLAS is 50 years old this year - it’s time for digital change.

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https://www.captainbarrysadler.com/

We are MCA accredited and offer orals Prep, via e learning, blended learning and 121 sessions via Teams as well as many other courses and educational support.

Whilst the Red Sea was designated a special area under the International Convention for Preventing Pollution from Ships (MARPOL) and was adopted as such in 1973, the restrictions on the discharge of oil were yet to come into effect. Although signatory states were required to enforce the restrictions, they do not come into effect until 1st January 2025. Captain Barry discusses what this means for international shipping and reiterates some of the restrictions that being a special area under MARPOL Annexes I brings into effect.

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https://www.captainbarrysadler.com/

We are MCA accredited and offer orals Prep, via e learning, blended learning and 121 sessions via Teams as well as many other courses and educational support.

The number of windy days seems to be increasing. Risk assessments can deal with limits and measures, but what’s it like berthing a ship right on those limits? Barry discusses where the risks can quickly escalate, what to look out for and what it’s like to use tugs on high power. With 24 years piloting experience Barry is able to talk in depth about these and other challenges that pilots face every time stormy conditions grace the UK.

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https://www.captainbarrysadler.com/

We are MCA accredited and offer orals Prep, via e learning, blended learning and 121 sessions via Teams as well as many other courses and educational support.

Particularly Sensitive Sea Areas or PSSAs have been identified by the IMO and listed on their website. But what are they - why do we have them and what needs to be done? Captain Barry discusses these areas and gives examples of where they can be found and what precautions are taken by International shipping in recognition of the special status of these areas.

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https://www.captainbarrysadler.com/

We are MCA accredited and offer orals Prep, via e learning, blended learning and 121 sessions via Teams as well as many other courses and educational support.

The International Maritime Solid Bulk Cargoes (IMSBC) Code sets out the mandatory standards for the safe carriage of solid bulk cargoes. This code is essential for preventing accidents at sea related to the transport of solid bulk materials. The latest amendments, coming into force on January 1, 2025, include updated provisions to enhance the safety of ships and crews. These amendments address issues like cargo classification, documentation, and procedures for safe handling. This podcast discusses two of these new cargoes.

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https://www.captainbarrysadler.com/

We are MCA accredited and offer orals Prep, via e learning, blended learning and 121 sessions via Teams as well as many other courses and educational support.