| Broadway came to the maritime industry last week during the opening of SHIPPINGInsight 2018 with the signature song from the smash hit “Hamilton”. Last week, you really wanted to be “In the room where it happens”, as SHIPPINGInsight broke all previous records for attendance, number of exhibitors, shipowners, speakers and transformational discussions. Hailed by all as a “Maritime Smash Hit”, the conference provided tremendous value for participants, partners and the industry at large. Starting out with tremendous presentations by Cargill and Eagle Bulk, we had a glimpse into what to look for in the future. We then progressed to Sulphur 2020 and a projection as to what shipping will soon look like. John Sitilides of Washington DC gave a rather horrifying picture of today’s geopolitical space, illuminating the vulnerabilities– and opportunities—afforded to shipping in this dynamic climate. The conference then moved into operational and transactional efficiencies (yes, that includes blockchain) before dividing into breakout sessions on Cybersecurity and Digitalization; Lubes, Fuel and Bunkering; the Human Element; Ballast Water; Energy Alternatives; Fleet Management Optimization Strategies; Emission Mitigation Strategies: and Regulatory Compliance. Day two ended with discussions on connectivity and the use of data to optimize ship performance. The surprise highlight of the conference was the Shark Tank, featuring 5 sharks (complete with shark hats) and 7 “chum”. Opened by an ominous video reminiscent of “Jaws”, the 7 new tech contestants competed for $5 million being allocated by the sharks. Every project got some funding, and the contestants were mobbed afterwards. Deals were certainly in the making! Autonomous shipping and the popular Shipowners Roundtable Luncheon wrapped up the event! Check out the photos and videos below. If you didn’t make it this year, plan to be “in the room where it happens” next year at SHIPPINGInsight 2019 at the Stamford Hilton October 15-17th! Planning is already underway to make it bigger, better and bolder! Keep optimizing, Carleen | 
