Focal topics
Read selected VDR publications, from specialist articles to in-depth discussions of current developments, and through to miscellaneous stories from the maritime world.
SeaYou: VDR ambassador programme for shipping
In the Ambassador Programme of the German Shipowners’ Association (VDR), young seafarers have their say and present their perspectives, pictures, texts, and videos from everyday maritime life.
read more: SeaYou: VDR ambassador programme for shipping
Climate protection: the net-zero goal
read more: Climate protection: the net-zero goal
© Image Source RF – stock.adobe.comCaptain – Boss at sea
A profession with responsibility: being a captain means much more than just steering a ship. It’s a challenging path to get there, requiring experience, training and strong leadership skills.
read more: Captain – Boss at sea
© Fairplay TowageChief Engineer – Master of machines
The key role in the engine room: The Chief keeps the ship’s technical operations running – with expertise, vision and a strong team at his side.
read more: Chief Engineer – Master of machines
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Articles on the topic
Once across the Pacific
Julia Sander experienced an exciting voyage across the Pacific, which gave her a unique insight into life and work on a container ship.
read more: Once across the PacificThe start of a new adventure
Annika Frühsorge spent three weeks on board “Conti Cortesia”, travelling from London to Fos-Sur-Mer.
read more: The start of a new adventureShipping for those who want to know more
Exciting, varied, full of responsibilities: a career in maritime shipping is always a great adventure. And it is very different from a traditional office job. We provide answers to the most important questions regarding your “dream job on board”.
read more: Shipping for those who want to know moreCareer paths in the shipping industry
Maritime shipping is international, innovative and indispensable. Would you like to find out more about jobs on board or ashore – or would you prefer to start by getting a first-hand taste of it? We provide an overview of the industry, its importance and your entry opportunities.
read more: Career paths in the shipping industrySafety on board
The number of serious shipping accidents and ship losses has dropped significantly in recent decades. According to industry insurer Allianz Commercial, only 27 ships were lost worldwide in 2024, out of a global fleet of around 100,000 merchant ships. This corresponds to less than 0.03 per cent and is a new low.
read more: Safety on boardThe tonnage tax – a success story
Since its introduction in 1999, the tonnage tax has been a key factor ensuring the competitiveness of German maritime shipping. It creates reliable, internationally comparable operating conditions while contributing significantly to the strength of Germany as a shipping nation.
read more: The tonnage tax – a success storyGerman seafarers: Jobs with a future
Well-trained professionals are the basis of a strong shipping industry. Through joint initiatives and the “Maritime Alliance”, shipowners, the government and their partners are ensuring high-quality training and employment as crucial prerequisites for Germany’s successful future as a shipping nation.
read more: German seafarers: Jobs with a futureStudies confirm: shipping incentives are effective – and must remain intact
Wage tax, ancillary labour costs and ship manning: studies show that it makes sense to maintain existing incentives to promote maritime shipping in Germany.
read more: Studies confirm: shipping incentives are effective – and must remain intactShip finance: finding new sources
VDR is committed to opening up new investment options and financing channels – for a modern, competitive and climate-friendly fleet.
read more: Ship finance: finding new sourcesTackling the global challenge of marine pollution together
International shipping has been working for decades under strict global guidelines to prevent waste from entering the sea. The IMO’s MARPOL Convention provides uniform global standards for clean oceans and fair competitive conditions.
read more: Tackling the global challenge of marine pollution together
