“We believe the dry bulk shipping cyclical recovery will likely last until at least 2016... and possibly longer.”

Nobody does it better, optimism that is, than analyst Doug Mavrinac.

“I don’t think it really matters what analysts say at the moment. The only thing that will convince investors now in any market is the actual strength of spot rates. The ‘hope’ trade is over. Now it is the ‘show me’ time.”

But at least there is a modicum of humility about his calling.

(Jefferies makes bold dry bulk call as coverage shifts)

“Mr Troim is the guy who makes things happen but it happens with the capital of Mr Fredriksen.”

Arctic Securities analyst, Erik Nikolai Stavseth, explains why the Golar LNG share price is on the rise despite chairman, John Fredriksen, selling down his holding.

(Golar investors put faith in Troim as share price rallies)

“There are many ships around in the market.”

No need to order more newbuildings when there are ships already afloat for sale according to Bocimar,managing director, Benoit Timmermans.

(Koreans lose control of Samjin to Chinese)

 “I’m not very concerned about the situation. Time is in our favour.”

FreeSeas chief executive, Ion Varouxakis, is not worried about what he views as wrongful arrests and says efforts to reduce debts and improve the balance sheet are working.

(FreeSeas boss says ‘time on our side’ as another ship seized)

 “The draught is not something you can accommodate in any port. It’s a given number. You can either fit in or not. Longer vessels, wider vessels, you can still play with. Draught you can’t.”

It is always a numbers game when it comes to deciding if a ship of a given draught should be sent to a particular port. Words of wisdom from W Marine’s managing director, Nikos Triantfyllakis, who believes in staying afloat.

(Specialist bulker player W Marine expands quietly)

“There are great opportunities but patience and stamina are key.”

Nor-Ocean partner, Marius D Fjeldstad, on the challenge of getting involved in the Mexican offshore energy business.

(Ambassador says Mexico reform is on firm ground)

“I think it’s a brilliant move on Scorpio’s part.”

Former OSG chief, Morten Arntzen, welcomes the rescue of the bankrupt company’s Greek ship management operation.

(Arntzen praises Scorpio rescue of OSG management arm)

“An oil spill was bad news for a ship before [this] decision. I think the significance of the decision is, at least in the Fifth Circuit, the possibility of enhanced fines based on gross negligence are greater than they had been before.”

Bad news just gets worse. US lawyer, Eugene O’Connor, warns the Deepwater Horizon gross negligence finding against BP has implications for pollution from ships.

(Deepwater Horizon ruling puts focus on prevention)

“This is a time when shipowners need every penny they can keep. Let’s get back to using mutuality a bit more than at present.”

A plea for general increases to be moderated from Aon client director, David Mahoney.

“We have ambitions, we have targets, we strongly believe we need to grow to make sure that we provide the best service for our members and clients.”

Stale Hansen wants to jump high when he takes over as Skuld’s chief executive.

(Skuld’s new chief prepares for his Wirkola challenge)