Hong Kong
The Winner
Calcarea
Onboard reactors capture and store ship’s CO₂ while underway, eliminating need for port-side carbon handling infrastructure. System works on all vessel types to offset carbon taxes. Calcarea’s system takes captured CO2 and converts it into oceanic bicarbonate which is stable, secure and environmentally benign.
The Finalists
Amphitrite
AI-powered platform fusing live satellite, sensor, and model data into unified 3-4 km grid with hourly updates and 10+ year archive. API-first delivery enables 1-5% fuel savings (demonstrated in live trials) through optimized routing.
BioBright
Biobright integrated system actively capturing CO₂ and purifying water simultaneously in port ecosystems through a dual system of algae cultures and a real-time monitoring system.
Enki Marine
World’s first digitally enabled propeller using additive manufacturing. Hollow, lightweight design reduces fuel consumption 5-10% with built-in sensors and AI for performance verification and compliance reporting and evolve towards autonomy.
qualiTEAS
AI-powered computer vision analyzing asset images to detect corrosion quantitatively and qualitatively. Automates visual inspection, integrates with existing programs, and supports predictive maintenance via digital twin applications.
Zeal
A satellite-powered locator beacon automatically detecting man-overboard events. Uses GNSS and satellite communication for real-time tracking and two-way communication.
How our challenge works
Step 1
Application Opens
Application Opens
Step 2
Selection Phase
All applications are reviewed by the Technical Board and after the deadlines, eligible companies are selected
Step 3
Finalist Selection
Top 10 Startups are shortlisted
Step 4
Enrichment Phase
Top 6 Finalists are announced and virtual bootcamp and mentorship program begins
Step 5
Live Finals
Top 6 pitches are showcased in front of live audience and the winner is selected
Our Judges
Torbjorn Dimblad
Chief Information Officer (CIO) at Anglo-Eastern
Paul Dean
Global Head of Shipping at HFW
Gautam Chellaram
The Chairman of KC Maritime
Michael Steen Hansen
Chief Financial Officer at Portline Group
Belle Lim
Director of Portfolio and Investor Relations at Motion Ventures
Sanjeev Mathur
SVP APAC at LR OneOcean
Prizes for the 2025 competition
$30,000
for the winner
£25,000
worth of legal advice courtesy of HFW
Business Opportunities
Leveraging our industry connections, we’ll connect you with industry leaders and decision makers, facilitate POC opportunities, and partnerships with leading maritime players
Marketing & Support
Mentorships, Fund Raising & Investor readiness
Pitch Stage & Global Exposure
Technical Sessions
Interview & Features
Access to The Captain’s Table Marketplace
$50,000 Investment Pledge
To one of the finalists
Complementary 1-year access
To strategic consultancy focusing on business growth and client portal.
FAQ
Find answers to common queries in our community
Timeline
- June 10: Applications for CT2025 open.
- August 31: Deadline for entries.
- September 1 – September 30: Due diligence process and selection round.
- October 1: Notifications sent to applicants; finalists are announced.
- October 15 – November 15: Bootcamp (online sessions).
- November 15 – November 20: Bootcamp (in-person sessions).
- November 20: Live Final Pitch Competition during the Hong Kong Maritime Week
How to apply
Submit online application here “Apply Now”
Your deck shall include information about:
- Business model
- Entry Barriers and Competitive Analysis
- Timeline (work-to-date, funding, historical milestones)d
- Team
- Traction and Future Development Plan – 5-year projection
- Scalability, Growth and Risk Factors
Which costs are covered
We will cover accommodation for 5 nights in Hong Kong.
What is included in the Bootcamp
The bootcamps sessions are an invaluable intensive two day course that focuses heavily on pitching skills and presentation.
In addition you will receive advice on IP and legal matters in Hong Kong and China for startups, presentations by VCs on what they look for in startups and other tailor-made sessions depending on the problem category that the startup is focusing on.
We also have one-on-one sessions with mentors, introductions to CEOs of large shipping corporations and other networking opportunities.
Why should I enter
The Captain’s Table is unique. We are not an accelerator program, we do not ask for equity we are purely a pitch platform for you to showcase you company to the wider industry.
The Captain’s Table is independent and led by industry professionals with access to an extensive network across Asia. Our competition offers maximum exposure but with limited time required for busy startups.
What media coverage is involved
The event will be live-streamed via our media sponsors, Splash247 and World Merchants Maritime Forum, allowing our startups to showcase their pitches to a global audience.
In the lead-up to the competition, we will release regular vlogs and interviews, with updates and announcements shared through our social media channels, Splash247 and Xinde Marine.
Get in touch
to find out more
Please use the contact methods below or the form below to get in touch with a member of our team