Port To Port Podcast

Gordon Rennie
  • 5.0 (1)
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The Port To Port Podcast aims to be the #1 ranked podcast for the Maritime industry. Each episode we will hear from world class industry leaders and people making a massive difference in their corner of this global industry. We will gain insight from their career tips, the future of the industry in their eyes and some of the more personal stories of the people of this incredible industry.

  1. #14 Sasi Prabhakaran on Maritime Innovation | Assets, Sustainability, and the UAE's Global Edge

    6d ago

    #14 Sasi Prabhakaran on Maritime Innovation | Assets, Sustainability, and the UAE's Global Edge

    From professional profiles and public records: Sasi Prabhakaran serves as Director - Maritime Assets at AD Ports Group, a flagship UAE-based ports, logistics, and maritime services provider under ADQ, headquartered in Abu Dhabi. In this role, Sasi leads fleet operations, technical management, and asset optimization for UAE-centric portfolios, including key facilities like Khalifa Port and Zayed Port. His focus is on integrating advanced tech and sustainability into asset strategies to support Abu Dhabi's economic diversification. Career Genesis & Path: Sasi's maritime journey began at sea as an Engineer Officer (Marine) with Maersk LNG, where he honed skills in marine engineering on DFDE LNG vessels, building a foundation in operational resilience and technical oversight. He advanced through shore-based positions, including Senior Fleet Superintendent and Fleet Manager AMEA at Svitzer (part of AP Moller-Maersk Group), emphasizing vessel operations, resource allocation, and leadership in the AMEA region. This progression led to his current strategic role at AD Ports, blending hands-on experience with high-level asset management in the Gulf's dynamic market. His career underscores a shift from operational engineering to executive leadership in sustainable maritime infrastructure. Recent Company Wins (UAE-Focused): Financial Surge: AD Ports Group reported a 15% YoY revenue increase to AED 4.83 billion in Q2 2025, with double-digit growth in H1 driven by Ports, Economic Cities & Free Zones, and Maritime & Shipping clusters—largely from Abu Dhabi expansions like Khalifa Port's capacity reaching 9.6 million TEUs. Global Ranking Milestone: Khalifa Port climbed to 39th in Lloyd’s List Top 100 Ports 2025 (up from 95th in six years), fueled by advanced digital tech, expanded services, and integration with KEZAD Group's industrial hub. Strategic Partnerships: Signed a 50-year lease with Oylz Terminals in March 2025 for a clean petroleum storage facility at Khalifa Port, bolstering Abu Dhabi's energy hub status and creating jobs. In February 2025, a 50-year agreement with Al Ain Mills for a grains storage/processing facility at Khalifa, enhancing food security and regional trade. Sustainability Push: Agreement with Masdar, Advario, and CMA CGM to develop an e-methanol bunkering/export facility in the UAE, aligning with net-zero goals. Plus, AI & Innovation Awards from Harvard Business Council in 2025 for operational excellence. Inland dry port inauguration in Al Faya (Feb 2025) with CMA CGM extends Khalifa's reach across UAE. These wins, under Sasi's maritime assets oversight, emphasize UAE/Gulf advancements without broader international detours.

    56 min
  2. #17 Chris Goldsworthy on Steering Maritime Excellence & Professional Development

    May 26

    #17 Chris Goldsworthy on Steering Maritime Excellence & Professional Development

    Chris Goldsworthy CEng CMarEng FIMarEST is Chief Executive at the Institute of Marine Engineering, Science and Technology (IMarEST). Chris spent 16 years at sea before transitioning to ship management ashore, where he worked for 20 years.  Chris is passionate about ensuring that IMarEST members feel coached, valued, and supported throughout their professional journeys. He is a strong advocate for all marine professionals, with a particular commitment to gaining key worker status for those working in the global shipping. He has also just set out the IMarEST's plans for the next three years, which will drive professional standards and ensure the Institute uses its trusted voice to help shape a united, safe and sustainable future for the marine industry.

    44 min

  3. May 26

    #15 Gaurav Singh Solanki on Mastering Drydock Dynamics and Ship Repair Evolution in Dubai

    Gaurav Singh Solanki MBA serves as Project Manager (Ship Repair Manager) at Drydocks World - Dubai, a premier DP World subsidiary and global leader in ship repair, conversions, and offshore fabrication, based in Dubai's Mina Rashid and Al Jaddaf facilities. In his role, Gaurav oversees multi-million-dollar scheduled and unscheduled drydocking projects for diverse vessels, from tankers to offshore units, ensuring on-time delivery, cost control, and compliance with international standards. His leadership emphasizes efficient resource allocation, stakeholder coordination, and integration of modern tech in repair workflows. Career Genesis & Path: Gaurav's maritime entry traces to foundational marine engineering roles, likely sparked by hands-on exposure in Indian shipyards or early career postings, evolving through progressive management positions. Armed with an MBA, he advanced into project oversight, honing skills in complex conversions and repairs. At Drydocks World since at least 2021 (per LinkedIn activity), his trajectory reflects a fusion of technical acumen and strategic planning, with active engagement in UAE's vibrant ship repair ecosystem—evident in his LinkedIn posts on marine engineering and shipyard innovations. Recent Company Wins (Dubai-Focused): FLNG Mega-Project: In August 2025, Drydocks World secured an EPC contract from Amigo LNG for the world's largest floating LNG facility off Mexico, involving conversions of two LNG carriers into FSUs and construction of two new-build FLNG barges—all executed at the Dubai yard, showcasing advanced fabrication capabilities and creating local jobs. ALNOKHADA Launch: On December 5, 2025, Drydocks World launched ALNOKHADA, the region's most powerful 5,000-tonne floating crane, enhancing Dubai's heavy-lift capacities for offshore and repair ops— a milestone under Gaurav's project umbrella. FPSO Refurbishment: Awarded a contract in April 2025 from Modec for the FPSO Aoka Mizu refurb, including 1,000 tons of steel renewal and 250,000 sq.m. of blasting/painting at the Dubai yard, completed over eight months starting May—bolstering UAE's offshore expertise. Infrastructure Boost: In November 2025, groundbreaking for a new head office complex in Dubai, set for Q1 2027 completion, to streamline operations and foster innovation—directly impacting Gaurav's team dynamics.These Dubai-centric triumphs underscore Drydocks World's role in regional maritime growth, with no diversion to non-UAE scopes.

    37 min
  4. #18 Sidsel Norvik on Nor-Shipping’s Record-Breaking Legacy and Maritime Transformation

    May 19

    #18 Sidsel Norvik on Nor-Shipping’s Record-Breaking Legacy and Maritime Transformation

    Sidsel Norvik is Director of Nor-Shipping, the world’s premier biennial maritime exhibition and conference, organized by the Ocean Industry Forum Oslosfjord and headquartered in Oslo, Norway. She leads commercial strategy, content curation, stakeholder partnerships, and overall event direction from the Oslo base. Career Genesis & Path: Sidsel’s journey started in media and communications, studying at BI Norwegian Business School. She built deep expertise in energy and maritime sectors as Senior VP at Upstream Online (leading oil & gas news platform), followed by Commercial Director and CEO roles in energy events. She joined Nor-Shipping in January 2020 as Commercial Director and rose to Director, transforming the event into a global platform for collaboration, innovation, and sustainability. Her path blends journalistic insight with strategic event leadership, always centered on Oslo’s maritime ecosystem. Recent Company Wins (Oslo/Norway-Focused): Record-Breaking Nor-Shipping 2025: The 60th-anniversary event (2-6 June 2025, Oslo & Lillestrøm) shattered all previous records for visitor numbers, activities, high-profile speakers, and global engagement. Sidsel described it as “a simply unforgettable week” and “the most successful ever,” with the #Future-Proof theme driving powerful discussions on sustainability, innovation, and resilience. Prestigious Awards Success: Unveiled winners of the Next Generation Ship Award and Ocean Solutions Award, spotlighting breakthroughs like Bibby Marine’s eCSOV hybrid vessels—directly curated from Oslo. Talent & Legacy Initiatives: Launched the 2025 Student Ambassador Programme winners, putting future maritime talent in the spotlight, plus ongoing planning for the 2027 edition (partners already unveiled in February 2026). All wins are Oslo-centric and under Sidsel’s direct leadership—no international offshoots emphasized.

    35 min
  5. #16 Kyle Pemberton on Innovation & Sustainability | Engineering Offshore Resilience

    May 12

    #16 Kyle Pemberton on Innovation & Sustainability | Engineering Offshore Resilience

    Kyle Pemberton serves as Vice President of Engineering at SEACOR Marine Holdings, a Houston, Texas-based provider of offshore marine services. The company operates a fleet of liftboats, offshore supply vessels (OSVs), and specialty vessels primarily in the U.S. Gulf of Mexico, supporting oil & gas, renewables, and offshore wind projects. In his role, Kyle leads engineering strategy, vessel design/optimization, ESG initiatives, and technical innovation across U.S. operations. Career Genesis & Path: Kyle’s maritime career is rooted in the oil & energy sector, progressing through engineering and management roles that blend technical expertise with operational leadership. His path reflects a strong focus on offshore vessel performance, safety, and sustainability, culminating in senior engineering positions at SEACOR Marine in Houston. This Houston-centric progression has equipped him with deep insight into Gulf of Mexico challenges, including harsh marine environments, regulatory compliance, and the shift toward lower-carbon operations. Recent Company Wins (U.S./Gulf of Mexico-Focused): 2024-2025 Sustainability Report (November 2025): SEACOR Marine released its latest sustainability report from Houston HQ, highlighting expanded waste reduction programs on vessels and shore offices, stronger employee welfare initiatives, and measurable progress on environmental metrics—directly tied to U.S. fleet operations. Strategic Vessel Transactions (Q3 2025): Completed the sale of two 335' class liftboats for $76 million, optimizing the U.S. fleet and generating capital for reinvestment in modern, efficient assets serving Gulf of Mexico clients. ESG & Operational Advancements: Ongoing focus on hybrid and efficiency technologies for OSVs, aligning with U.S. offshore energy demands and supporting renewables projects in domestic waters.

    57 min

  6. 09/20/2023

    #11 Ramesh Biradar: The biggest challenge was maintaining work-life balance

    Ramesh recalls a memorable incident with his dad and a recruiting officer named Mr. Hoshang Dasdu that led to him signing his first contract in the shipping industry. He didn't have a specific mentor but learned from different chief engineers and captains throughout his sailing career. Ramesh shares his transition from being a seaman to becoming Chief Engineer, which was exciting for him despite some challenges. He eventually decided to leave the sea life due to boredom and took on his first shore job in Singapore.  The biggest challenge for Ramesh was maintaining work-life balance, especially when it came to spending time with family. He discusses the cultural differences of living in Singapore compared to India and how he now visits home once every three months. Ramesh made the move away from Williamson for new challenges, taking on the role of starting technical management from scratch in Sumac Ocean Transport, which aims to expand its fleet size by 2024. Ramesh discusses the importance of focusing on one solution instead of discussing multiple options. He mentions that seafarers are being treated poorly and used as scapegoats, which has taken away their pride and decision-making power. Ramesh emphasizes the need to treat crew members well by providing good food, open communication, and support. He talks about engaging with his team onshore and onboard, allowing them to make decisions and take risks. Ramesh shares some highlights from his career, including successfully taking over 13 ships in 45 days without any commercial loss and handling unique projects such as dealing with Chinese ship owners. The speaker discusses various aspects of the shipping industry, including their experience with a unique case involving an Indonesian owner, the challenges faced by owners due to new regulations and fluctuating rates, potential changes in ownership types, and the importance of understanding both technical and operational aspects. They also mention their interest in nuclear fuel as a future alternative and express their desire for career growth within a company focused on sustainability. The speaker advises that those entering the industry should have passion rather than just seeking financial gain. Their earliest memory of ships was seeing small ferry boats as a child.

    56 min

  7. 09/06/2023

    #10 Hatem Elgameil - Changing from Marine Engineer to Naval Architect, Moving your family around the world and leading teams in complex projects

    Summary: Hatem Elgameil, a Naval architect and Marine engineer, introduces himself and his background. He immigrated to the United States in 1994 and has worked in various engineering roles throughout his career. He joined IMI International Marine Industries as Vice President of Engineering in 2020 after spending 14 years with Noble drilling as Director of Projects. Hatem also had experience working in a company in California doing engineering model testing and R&D design verification. Despite facing challenges early on, he quickly adapted to new roles and excelled in his career. Hatem discusses their family's move from California to Texas in 2006, and how it was a big change for their wife. Their older child graduated college and recently got a job offer in Alaska while the younger one is starting his last year of college. Hatem joined Noble as a senior naval architect in 2006 and later became a project manager and then director of engineering. They travelled extensively for projects all over the world, managing repairs and upgrades in various shipyards. The challenges included unexpected work and delays. Despite the long hours and stress, they enjoyed making friendships with people they met along the way. They didn't change jobs unless there was a significant challenge or incentive, so leaving Noble in 2020 due to oil price collapse and COVID-19 wasn't by choice. Overall, their track record for delivering projects on time and within budget was good, except when unrealistic budgets were set by others. The project team had a stable group of experienced members, with only a few new hires. This continuity was crucial for their success as they possessed extensive knowledge of the system, processes, shipyards, and rigs. The interviewee joined International Maritime Industries (IMI) remotely in August 2020 due to COVID-19 restrictions but later travelled to Saudi Arabia. They now serve as the Vice President of Engineering at IMI. IMI is a joint venture between Aramco, HHI, Bahrain Shipping Company, and Emperor Shipyard and has a backlog of ten years to build 52 vessels for Bahi and 20 offshore drilling rigs for Aramco. The company aims to use dual fuel engines with LNG as the primary choice in vessel designs but recognizes that future advancements may provide alternatives like methane or hydrogen fuels. AI technology plays an influential role in modelling and testing on the factory side of operations while complying with changing regulations is critical for all companies involved. The interviewee's first memory related to shipping was growing up near Alexandria's port in Egypt where he saw ships coming and going regularly. He embarked on his first training trip on an old passenger vessel during college which solidified his interest in the industry despite challenging conditions onboard. Hatem discusses the challenges and requirements of a career in naval architecture, emphasising the need for passion and expertise in various fields. They compare naval architecture to designing a city, highlighting the complexity involved in providing essential services onboard a vessel. Specialisation is common among naval architects, but those with knowledge across multiple disciplines are highly valuable. Hatem expresses satisfaction with their career choice and mentions occasional involvement in sea trials. They conclude by expressing interest in hearing from fellow naval architects worldwide. Timestamp: 1. Introduction and Background - Timestamp: 00:01-02:56 - Key points: Thanking the guest for joining the podcast, introduction, and background information about Hatim Algamil's upbringing in Egypt and immigration to the United States. 2. Early Career and Noble Drilling - Timestamp: 02:56-07:34 - Key points: Hatim's education in naval architecture, his 14 years at Noble Drilling as Director of Projects, and the challenges and learning e

    31 min

  8. 08/28/2023

    #9 Per Cristian Dettwiler - Destined for shoreside, Going after an MBA and starting a Wagyu Beef Farm

    Summary: Gordon interviews Per Cristian with an untraditional shipping background who had a desire to work on ships from a young age. Per Cristian shares their family's seafaring legacy and their own journey from Switzerland to Norway, where they studied nautical engineering. They then joined Odgl as a cadet and spent ten years working on ships before deciding it was time to move back to shore. They joined Esper Tankers in Hamburg and later ENS tankers.  Per Cristian talks about their first experience joining a vessel, their time at sea, including trips to various ports around the world, and their involvement in taking over a new vessel. They also discuss the challenges faced during the new building process and the teething issues that arise with newly launched ships. The conversation shifts towards the decision of coming ashore, with Per Cristian expressing early on that they didn't see themselves making a career at sea until retirement. Per-Cristian discusses their decision to pursue an MBA in Shipping and Logistics while working at sea, which they believe will provide better opportunities for them ashore. They also mention their involvement in a project breeding wagyu cattle and the ethical approach they take towards animal welfare. The speaker then talks about their job transition from a chief mate to a dual role as an operator and technical advisor at Sberger, eventually becoming the operations manager. They reflect on the challenges and adjustments of transitioning from ship life to office work but express satisfaction with their decision overall. The speaker reflects on their experience working at sea and the transition to shore-based work. They mention that some people choose to return to sea after a period of time ashore, while others prefer to stay on land. The speaker expresses gratitude for their current position and acknowledges the learning curve they have experienced. They discuss the challenges of managing a team and the importance of balancing guidance and freedom. The speaker also mentions how their MBA has helped them approach problems from different perspectives. They express satisfaction with their current career path and mention upcoming projects in their role. Overall, they emphasize the need for personal growth and challenge in one's career. Per Cristian discusses their experiences at sea, including a culture shock while discharging in India and witnessing amazing sunrises and sunsets. They mention the sacrifices made by seafarers, such as missing birthdays and holidays. The speaker also emphasizes the importance of the shipping industry and the often overlooked crews on board ships. The conversation touches on the recent attention given to crew members during COVID-19 and expresses gratitude for their work. The transcript ends with a friendly farewell between the speakers. Timestamp: Chapter 1: Introduction and Background 00:: Pleasantries and introduction to the podcast. 00:: Briefly discusses the speaker's untraditional background in shipping and their academic journey. Chapter 2: Academic Challenges and Moving Between Countries 02:: Talks about struggling with studies and the impact of moving between different parts of Switzerland on academic progress. Chapter 3: Career at Sea 05:: Describes the experience of working on a ship and the delay in completing studies due to a project. Chapter 4: Pursuing an MBA in Shipping and Logistics 08:: Explains the decision to enroll in an online MBA program at Middlesex University to enhance career opportunities. Chapter 5: Transition from Sea to Land 11:: Discusses the process of coming ashore and how the idea for a new project emerged during a skiing holiday. Chapter 6: Starting a Cattle Project 16:: Details the process of starting a cattle project and the philosophy behind it.

    34 min
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About

The Port To Port Podcast aims to be the #1 ranked podcast for the Maritime industry. Each episode we will hear from world class industry leaders and people making a massive difference in their corner of this global industry. We will gain insight from their career tips, the future of the industry in their eyes and some of the more personal stories of the people of this incredible industry.

Information

  • Creator
    Gordon Rennie
  • Years Active
    2020 - 2026
  • Episodes
    16
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Port To Port Podcast
  • Show Website
    Port To Port Podcast