#74 - Rudders, Careers & Efficiency Gains – A Maritime Conversation with Carsten Löhmer

Onboard Große Michel in the Port of Hamburg, this episode of HANSA Newscast features a conversation with Carsten Löhmer, CEO and owner of Loewe Marine.

We talk about a career shaped by the sea—from early exposure to shipyards and naval vessels to vocational training, naval architecture studies, and eventually building a company focused on rudders and steering systems.

Carsten explains why rudders are far more than “garage doors” under a ship. The discussion goes deep into hydrodynamics, cavitation, efficiency gains, and why custom-designed rudders can deliver measurable fuel and emission savings. He shares real-world examples, including towing tank tests showing up to 4 % energy savings through optimized rudder design.

The conversation also explores how careers in the maritime industry have changed: dual study programs, practical shipyard experience, global project work, and the importance of understanding real working conditions—from welding in confined spaces to managing international teams.

Finally, Carsten looks ahead: holistic retrofit concepts combining hull, propeller, and rudder optimization, emissions reduction (CO₂, NOx), and upcoming international cooperation projects.

A grounded episode on maritime engineering, career paths, teamwork, and why shipping remains one of the most global and opportunity-rich industries.