On 23 January 2026, B2Sea proudly delivered MARTECMA’s Annual Dinner at the iconic Hotel Grande Bretagne in Athens, setting the stage for an evening that reflected the strength, evolution, and forward momentum of the association’s maritime technical community.
This year’s dinner brought together more than 300 distinguished guests, including representatives of maritime institutions, members of the academic and research community, and senior executives from the wider shipping industry. The event was honoured by the presence of the Ambassadors of China, Japan, and the Republic of Korea – three of the world’s leading shipbuilding nations – highlighting decades of strong cooperation, mutual respect, and shared maritime heritage between Greece and each country.
Members of the BoD of MARTECMA with the representative of the Ministry of Shipping & Insular Policy. (L-R): Antonis Georgantzis (Latsco), Fotis Belexis (Starbulk), Vice Admiral Drakoulis (Hellenic Coast Guard), Panos Kourkountis (Seatraders)
During the event, the Ambassadors addressed the audience and were presented with a statue of Poseidon, a symbolic gesture representing the enduring maritime ties between Greece and the respective countries. Adding to the evening’s celebratory climate, Mr Stefanos Tsonakis was announced as an Honorary Member of MARTECMA, in recognition of his exceptional contribution to the Association. In addition, a €5,000 sponsorship to the Merchant Marine Academy of Kalymnos was announced, aimed at supporting infrastructure upgrades, technological equipment, and general operational needs.
The event served not only as a celebration but as a meeting point for dialogue, shared vision, and the continued advancement of technical excellence in shipping.
B2Sea curated an experience aligned with the significance of the occasion from the historic setting and refined ambience to the precise flow of the programme, ensuring an evening that honoured the association’s mission and the people who drive it forward.
We are grateful to MARTECMA for their trust and partnership, and to all supporters who contributed to the success of the night.
