World Maritime Day 2016

World Maritime Day was first held in 1978 to mark the 20th anniversary of the IMO Convention’s entry into force. Celebrations are held throughout the world to focus attention on the importance of shipping safety, maritime security and the marine environment, and to emphasize a particular aspect of IMO's work.

World Maritime Day celebrations are usually held during the last week in September, and this year the traditional diplomatic reception to celebrate the Day will be held at IMO Headquarters on 29 September. The 2016 theme is Shipping: indispensable to the world.

Since 2005, in addition to the official IMO celebrations held at IMO Headquarters in London, there has been a Parallel Event hosted by a Member State. This year’s Parallel Event will take place in Turkey.