Former U.S. Coast Guard Captain Who Helped Shape Global Shipping Safety Wins IMO Honour
Our take
The recognition of Captain Jeffrey G. Lantz with the 2025 International Maritime Prize is a significant acknowledgement of a career dedicated to enhancing global shipping safety – a domain increasingly critical given the complexities of modern maritime trade and geopolitical tensions. Recent events, such as the 63 Million Barrels Of Iranian Oil Stranded On Tankers After US Revokes Sanctions Waiver, highlight the delicate balance between international trade, sanctions, and the potential for disruption, underscoring the importance of robust safety protocols and navigation standards. Furthermore, expansions within the shipping network, like DP World’s acquisition of a new container vessel to DP World Acquires New Container Vessel To Expand India’s Coastal Shipping Network, necessitate a continued focus on safety to accommodate increased vessel traffic and evolving logistical demands. Captain Lantz's contributions, particularly in shaping international regulations and best practices, directly address these challenges.
Captain Lantz’s career exemplifies a commitment to rigorous standards and collaborative problem-solving, cornerstones of effective maritime safety. His work with the U.S. Coast Guard and subsequent influence on the International Maritime Organization (IMO) demonstrate a deep understanding of the interconnected nature of global shipping. The IMO's role in developing and enforcing safety standards is critical for mitigating risks stemming from everything from navigational errors to structural failures and the increasing prevalence of extreme weather events. The recent volatility in oil prices, spurred by escalating tensions in the Middle East, as evidenced by the Oil Prices Rise Nearly 2% As Hormuz Threat Becomes ‘Severe’ After U.S Strikes 80 Iranian Sites, further emphasizes the need for stable and secure shipping lanes, something Captain Lantz has demonstrably contributed to. His ability to bridge the gap between regulatory frameworks and practical implementation is a testament to his expertise and leadership.
The award itself, the International Maritime Prize, is a powerful validation of the impact of Captain Lantz’s work. It reflects the IMO's recognition of his dedication to improving maritime safety for all nations. This isn't simply about preventing accidents; it’s about ensuring the reliable flow of goods and resources that underpin global economies and supply chains. The ocean environment presents inherent challenges, ranging from unpredictable weather patterns to the potential for human error. Data-driven approaches, including real-time monitoring of vessel traffic and environmental conditions, are becoming increasingly vital for proactive risk management. Captain Lantz’s career demonstrates a parallel evolution, moving from traditional navigation practices to embracing the complexities of a modern, interconnected maritime world. The validated, empirical data informing these improvements are essential for informing policy and practice.
Looking ahead, the intersection of maritime safety, technological innovation, and climate change will continue to shape the industry. The increasing automation of vessels, the integration of advanced sensor networks, and the development of alternative fuels all present both opportunities and challenges. Will these innovations enhance safety or introduce new vulnerabilities? The longitudinal data collected and analyzed through integrated data ecosystems will be crucial in evaluating the long-term impacts of these changes. The validation of new technologies, calibrated against established safety metrics, remains paramount. The award to Captain Lantz serves as a timely reminder of the enduring importance of experienced leadership and a commitment to scientific rigor in navigating these increasingly complex waters.
“Consensus-builder” Jeffrey Lantz selected for global recognition by the International Maritime Organization
Mr. Jeffrey G. Lantz – a naval architect, marine engineer and former United States Coast Guard captain with more than 50 years of maritime experience – has been selected as the recipient of the 2025 International Maritime Prize.
The decision was endorsed by the IMO Council on Tuesday 7 July during its 137th session in London, United Kingdom. He was nominated by the Government of the United States of America.
In nominating Mr. Lantz, the U.S. Coast Guard highlighted his long, distinguished career and outstanding technical expertise, including over two decades spent advancing the mission and objectives of International Maritime Organization, stating:
“His leadership has been instrumental in the development of landmark IMO regulations and in driving international consensus on complex issues facing the maritime sector.”
Mr. Lantz will receive his award during the annual IMO Awards Ceremony scheduled for 14 December 2026.
Distinguished career in maritime leadership
Mr. Lantz most recently served as the Director of Commercial Regulations and Standards for the U.S. Coast Guard. He retired in 2025, having reached the US government’s highest civil service rank.
He is a naval architect, marine engineer, and port state control and flag state surveyor, holding a Bachelor of Science in Ocean Engineering from the U.S. Coast Guard Academy and Master of Science degrees in Naval Architecture, Marine Engineering, and Mechanical Engineering from the University of Michigan.
He led, managed and directed the development of United States policy positions and the U.S. Government’s representation on maritime matters at the IMO and the International Labour Organization (ILO). He served as head of the U.S. delegation at IMO for more than 10 years, and was elected as Chair of the IMO Council, holding this position from 2009 to 2017.
Key Contributions
The IMO Council noted Mr. Lantz’s significant contributions to the development of landmark global maritime policies, on safety, security and environmental protection. He led efforts in advancing key frameworks, including:
- development and global adoption of the International Ship and Port Facility Security (ISPS) Code, which transformed maritime security standards and extended IMO’s regulatory reach ashore to port facilities;
- development of the International Code of Safety for Ships Using Gaseous Fuels (IGF Code), supporting innovation and environmental protection through safe standards for alternative fuels;
- advancing the International Code for Ships Operating in Polar Waters (Polar Code), which established robust safety and environmental requirements for vessels operating in the Arctic and Antarctic; and
- revising training standards and addressing seafarer welfare, including the Manila Amendments to the International Convention on Standards of Training, Certification, and Watchkeeping for Seafarers (STCW Convention) and solutions for hours of rest and working arrangements.
These achievements, among others, along with his commitment to service, consensus-building and integrity, have left a lasting impact on the IMO and the global maritime community.
Recognising service to the global maritime community
In addition to endorsing Mr. Lantz for the Prize, the Council agreed to award a Letter of Commendation to Rear Admiral Peter Brady, in recognition of his contributions to the development of the maritime sector in Jamaica and the wider Caribbean, as well as his sustained commitment to capacity-building, regional cooperation and the work of IMO.
International Maritime Prize
Established in 1980, the International Maritime Prize has been awarded annually by IMO to an individual or organization that has made a significant contribution to its work and objectives. The recipient is selected by a panel of judges chaired by the IMO Secretary-General, comprised of representatives from the IMO Council, as well as intergovernmental and non-governmental organizations.
See previous recipients: International Maritime Prize
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