European MAR Opens New Office in Hamburg and Strengthens Presence in the German Maritime Market

On 17th September, European MAR officially inaugurated its new office in Hamburg, marking an important milestone in strengthening its presence within the German maritime community and further consolidating the international standing of the Madeira International Shipping Register (MAR).

The inauguration ceremony brought together representatives of the international maritime sector, partners and various stakeholders, as well as representatives of the Madeira Development Company (SDM).

During the ceremony, SDM’s Chairman, Rogério Gouveia, stressed that the new premises in Hamburg are a testament to the long-standing partnership between European MAR and SDM, established in 2013, bringing MAR closer to one of Europe’s most important maritime communities.

He also highlighted the importance of proximity, legal certainty, responsiveness and trusted partnerships in supporting shipowners and ensuring the competitiveness of a European shipping register.

Representing the President of the Regional Government of Madeira, Rogério Gouveia noted that European MAR has played an important role in connecting Madeira and MAR with key stakeholders and decision-making centres within the international maritime industry, contributing to strengthening the global profile of the Portuguese flag and the Madeira International Shipping Register.

The opening of the new office therefore represents a natural step in strengthening relations with German shipowners and the various stakeholders across the maritime sector, providing closer access to the services and expertise associated with MAR.

Hamburg has long been recognised as one of the world’s leading maritime capitals and as a major hub for international shipping.

The new Hamburg premises provide a strong foundation for the next stage of this partnership and reinforce the commitment to working closely with the German and international maritime communities.

MAR Maintains Strong Growth Trajectory

MAR has experienced significant growth over the past decade. At the end of the first half of 2026, the register comprised 1,264 commercial vessels, representing more than 30 million gross tonnage.

From approximately 300 registered vessels a decade ago, the fleet has grown to more than 1,200 vessels, corresponding to an average annual growth rate of around 15%.

MAR is currently the third-largest international shipping register in the European Union.

Alongside its fleet growth, MAR remains strongly committed to high standards of safety, compliance, transparency and operational quality.