The US-based class society American Bureau of Shipping (ABS) has continued its long-standing support for the AMVER Awards, by sponsoring a ceremony recognizing the contribution of Norwegian owners to the unique AMVER reporting system that supports search and rescue efforts for distress calls at sea.
The AMVER Awards event honoured 259 vessels from 24 Norwegian shipowners and operators, who were awarded diplomas for their role in maintaining maritime safety and in recognition of the owners’ commitment to assisting in search and rescue activities anywhere in the world, as ABS mentions.
During the 2025 AMVER Awards event, the U.S. Coast Guard (USCG) presented a Certificate of Merit to two Norwegian captains, honouring their role in a dramatic rescue of American seafarers in 1980.
Joshua Divin, ABS senior vice president, marine business development, says that “The basic premise of AMVER, as a vehicle for mariner to help mariner without regard to nationality, continues to this day, only with infinitely greater capacity thanks to advances in computing and communications.
“The AMVER Awards are always a special occasion for ABS, which is itself a mission-driven organization, dedicated to safety for more than 160 years. Norwegian shipowners also have a long and proud record on safety.
“Their leadership, technological investment, and steadfast dedication to safety have helped shape a world where mutual assistance is not just a nice idea, but a principle in daily practice.”
Benjamin Strong, USCG AMVER program director, notes that “The AMVER program depends on the dedication of responsible shipowners around the world, and Norwegian operators continue to set the standard for voluntary participation in global maritime safety.”
He adds that, “We’re especially grateful to ABS for their longstanding support of the AMVER Awards, which recognize this lifesaving commitment. AMVER and ABS share a common goal of safeguarding lives at sea, and our partnership strengthens the culture of safety across the global shipping community.”
