The shipowner and operator based in Singapore, Berge Bulk, has disclosed a significant shareholding in Genco Shipping & Trading (GNK), which is listed in New York. Berge Bulk’s investment entity, Kibo Investment, acquired 3.13 million shares in Genco, amounting to a 7.3% ownership, as indicated by a filing with the US Securities and Exchange Commission. This acquisition, noted in a 13G filing, is valued at approximately $42 million. Genco Shipping & Trading (GNK), headquartered in Manhattan, is predominantly owned by institutional investors, with BlackRock being the largest at about 10%, and Dimensional Fund Advisors next with a 6.5% share. Genco Shipping & Trading (GNK), led by John Wobensmith, oversees a fleet of over 40 bulkers ranging from supramax to capesize bulk carriers. Conversely, James Marshall’s Berge Bulk operates and owns a fleet of 90 bulk carriers, including large valemax and handysize vessels. In Q4 2023, Greek shipping magnate George Economou acquired approximately 5.4% of Genco Shipping & Trading (GNK) and initiated a boardroom conflict, from which he later disengaged and sold his shares in Genco Shipping & Trading (GNK) at a profit. The market capitalization of Genco Shipping & Trading (GNK) is roughly $578.5 million. For the year 2024, Genco Shipping & Trading (GNK) reported earnings of $76.4 million. 7-April-2025
Singapore-based shipowner and operator Berge Bulk has acquired a 7.3% stake in the New York-listed shipowner and operator Genco Shipping & Trading (GNK), which is led by John Wobensmith. The acquisition, led by James Marshall of Berge Bulk, involved purchasing over 3 million shares and is classified as a passive investment, according to regulatory filings. A prominent private bulker owner from Singapore, Berge Bulk is renowned for its significant presence in the global dry bulk shipping industry. The company, which operates one of the world’s largest fleets of bulk carriers, specializes in transporting major bulk commodities such as iron ore, coal, and grains. This strategic stake acquisition in Genco Shipping & Trading (GNK) reflects Berge Bulk’s ongoing efforts to expand its influence and operational reach within the global shipping market. The purchase of 3.13 million shares was conducted through Kibo Investments, Berge Bulk’s investment subsidiary based in Singapore, as detailed in the filings. Berge Bulk’s approach to investment is characterized by its commitment to enhancing operational efficiencies and environmental sustainability in shipping operations, aligning with broader industry trends towards cleaner and more efficient maritime logistics. Like many U.S. stocks, Genco Shipping & Trading’s shares have experienced a downturn this week, impacted by the ongoing global trade tensions. This market context highlights the challenges and opportunities faced by major shipping companies like Berge Bulk as they navigate through fluctuating economic conditions and strive to maintain competitiveness in the international market. 5-April-2025
The Isle of Man Ship Registry (IOMSR) has recently added several newbuildings from Singapore-based shipowner and operator Berge Bulk. CEO James Marshall-led Berge Bulk, known for its preference for the Isle of Man register, has returned to this registry for its latest newcastlemax bulk carriers. The Isle of Man Ship Registry (IOMSR) has officially registered four new vessels from Berge Bulk as part of its initiative to promote decarbonization. These vessels include the 211K DWT newcastlemax bulk carriers MV Berge Mauna Kea, MV Berge Mauna Loa, MV Berge Haleakala, and MV Berge Hualalai, all constructed in 2024 and delivered in Q4 2024 by Imabari Shipbuilding. Singapore-based Berge Bulk will benefit from reduced registration fees, thanks to the Isle of Man Ship Registry’s (IOMSR) policy that incentivizes more environmentally efficient vessels. This move aligns with Berge Bulk’s commitment to modernizing its fleet and enhancing its sustainability practices, while also taking advantage of the Isle of Man Ship Registry’s (IOMSR’s) supportive measures for greener shipping technologies. Berge Bulk is one of the world’s leading independent dry bulk owners, operating a fleet predominantly consisting of large vessel types including capesize, newcastlemax, and very large ore carriers (VLOCs). The company specializes in transporting iron ore, coal, and various other essential bulk commodities globally. With a strong emphasis on efficiency and reliability, Berge Bulk has built a reputation for safe, high-quality, and efficient operations. Berge Bulk’s commitment to sustainability is evident in its proactive approach to incorporating the latest advancements in maritime environmental technology. Berge Bulk’s efforts include investing in fuel-efficient ships, using technologies that minimize emissions and enhance operational efficiencies, and participating in global discussions on reducing the shipping industry’s carbon footprint. This dedication not only contributes to global environmental goals but also positions Berge Bulk at the forefront of the green shipping movement, making it a preferred partner for clients who value sustainability alongside operational excellence. 16-October-2024
Singapore-based shipowner and operator Berge Bulk is seeking to have a lawsuit dismissed by a US court, which was filed by grain company Pan American Grain Manufacturing due to an incident in Puerto Rico. Berge Bulk, under the leadership of CEO James Marshall, argues that it should not be held liable for the alleged negligence of the crew or for any claims of unseaworthiness concerning the chartered 2020-built handysize bulk carrier, 37K DWT MV Berge Scafell Pike. The company has requested a judge in Puerto Rico to dismiss the case, which originated from a collision involving the MV Berge Scafell Pike with a tower at a terminal on the US-controlled island. The request for summary judgment was submitted 10 months after Pan American Grain Manufacturing initiated legal action in the US federal court in San Juan in November 2023, over the incident. The vessel involved, the 2020-built handysize bulk carrier 37K DWT MV Berge Scafell Pike, is owned by an affiliate of Tachibana Kaiun and chartered to Berge Bulk. Berge Bulk is a prominent player in the global shipping industry, known for its large and technologically advanced fleet of bulk carriers. The company specializes in transporting iron ore, coal, and grain across major shipping routes worldwide. Berge Bulk places a strong emphasis on sustainability and efficiency, continuously investing in eco-friendly technologies and practices to minimize environmental impact and enhance the operational efficiency of its fleet. This commitment to high operational standards and environmental stewardship is a cornerstone of Berge Bulk’s corporate philosophy, positioning the company as a leader in maritime logistics and bulk carrier operations. 23-September-2024
Singapore-based shipowner and operator Berge Bulk has successfully sold the 2021-built newcastlemax bulk carrier, the 210K DWT MV Berge Bobotov, to Athens-based shipowner and operator Capital Maritime & Trading. The Evangelos Marinakis-led company acquired the vessel for approximately $75 million, demonstrating its status as one of the cash-rich shipowners actively participating in the large bulk carrier market. Capital Maritime & Trading is part of the diversified shipping group Capital Executive Ship Management, which currently manages a fleet of 36 vessels. This fleet includes 27 container ships from Capital Product Partners and 9 bulk carriers. The CEO of Berge Bulk, James Marshall, originally commissioned the scrubber-fitted newcastlemax bulk carrier MV Berge Bobotov as part of a two-ship deal with Bohai Shipbuilding Heavy Industry Co, priced at $45 million each. From this sale, Berge Bulk has realized a gain of about $30 million, not including the revenue generated by the MV Berge Bobotov since its delivery in 2021. The market demand for newcastlemax bulk carriers has been exceptionally strong in 2024, with sales more than doubling from the previous year. Over 70 newcastlemax bulk carriers have been traded, indicating robust interest and activity in this segment. 15-July-2024
CSSC Qingdao Beihai Shipbuilding, the world’s foremost builder of newcastlemax bulk carriers, has secured an order for two ammonia dual-fuel newcastlemax bulk carriers. Berge Bulk, under the leadership of James Marshall, has chosen CSSC Qingdao Beihai Shipbuilding for the construction of two 210K DWT ammonia dual-fuel newcastlemax bulk carrier newbuilds, with each vessel priced at approximately $80 million. This follows an earlier order by Singapore-based Eastern Pacific Shipping for four similar 210K DWT ammonia dual-fuel newcastlemax bulk carrier newbuilds at the same shipyard. Newcastlemax bulk carriers are currently in high demand, with February 2024 witnessing a record-breaking month for secondhand sales of this ship type. 1-March-2024
The Turkish government has issued a stern warning against drug smuggling following the discovery of cocaine on Singapore-based shipowner and operator Berge Bulk capesize bulk carrier. The Interior Minister, Ali Yerlikaya, announced the retrieval of approximately 52kg of cocaine attached to the anchor chain of the 2011 built capesize bulk carrier 176K DWT MV Berge Torre. At the time of this operation, the MV Berge Torre, flying the Liberian flag, was anchored off Iskenderun Bay. 2011 built capesize bulk carrier 176K DWT MV Berge Torre had previously departed from Puerto Bolivar in Colombia on October 19, 2023. Turkish authorities are currently questioning 26 individuals, including the ship’s captain, chief officers, and other crew members, who are under suspicion. The narcotics were found packed in 45 parcels inside two robust plastic bags by Turkey’s General Directorate of Security’s anti-narcotics division. Since Ali Yerlikaya took office as Interior Minister in June 2023, there has been a noticeable intensification in the Turkish police’s efforts against drug trafficking. CEO James Marshall-led Singapore-based shipowner and operator Berge Bulk has stated its cooperation with local authorities and law enforcement in Turkey regarding the suspected contraband found in the chain locker of MV Berge Torre. This seizure occurred during discharge operations on November 12, 2023, at Iskenderun port. Singapore-based shipowner and operator Berge Bulk is actively collaborating with all concerned parties, including the MV Berge Torre’s third-party manager, to support the crew, who are fully cooperating with the ongoing investigations by Turkish authorities. 16-November-2023
Singapore-based shipowner and operator Berge Bulk CEO James Marshall has unveiled the Marshall Plan to transition their bulk carrier fleet towards decarbonization. In outlining this strategy, Berge Bulk CEO James Marshall has identified four key components. Climate advocate CEO James Marshall has employed his own name to characterize the Singapore-based shipowner and operator Berge Bulk’s approach to reducing emissions. CEO James Marshall has detailed the four fundamental principles of what he terms the Marshall Plan. These principles encompass enhancing fleet efficiency, harnessing cutting-edge maritime technologies, conducting trials with alternative fuels, and committing to investments in carbon capture technology. This partnership between Singapore-based shipowner and operator Berge Bulk, BAR Technologies, and Yara Marine soars the wind propulsion. Currently, Singapore-based shipowner and operator Berge Bulk operates around 80 bulk carriers. 17-October-2023
Singapore-based shipowner and operator Berge Bulk has introduced the most potent wind-assisted bulk carrier globally, anticipating substantial bunker savings and emission reductions for their newcastlemax bulk carrier. CEO James Marshall-led Berge Bulk successfully retrofitted the 2018 built newcastlemax bulk carrier 210K DWT MV Berge Olympus. The retrofit involved the installation of four (4) massive WindWings, engineered by the United Kingdom company BAR Technologies and manufactured by Yara Marine Technologies. These imposing structures, towering higher than a ten-story building, are projected to deliver impressive results: a daily fuel saving of six tonnes and a reduction in CO2 emissions by 19.5%. Berge Bulk, a prominent player in the global dry bulk shipping industry, is renowned for its exceptional track record in the secure, efficient, and sustainable transportation of commodities worldwide. This dynamic and youthful company is deeply committed to fostering innovative growth and development. Singapore-based shipowner and operator boasts ownership and management of an extensive fleet, comprising more than 80 vessels, totaling over 14 million deadweight tons (DWT). This diverse fleet encompasses vessels ranging from handy-size to cape-size, including some of the largest ships ever constructed. These vessels cater to the needs of major mining companies, steel mills, and charterers across the globe. In 2022, Berge Bulk successfully transported an impressive cargo volume exceeding 70 million tonnes. With its current fleet and future expansion plans on the horizon, Berge Bulk anticipates an exciting and promising future. 16-October-2023
Singapore-based shipowner and operator Berge Bulk will install AR Technologies’ WindWings sails to 2018 built capesize bulk carrier 210K DWT MV Berge Olympus in 2023. James Marshall-led Berge Bulk has become the second shipowner and operator to opt to install BAR Technologies’ WindWings sails to a bulk carrier. In June 2022, Cargill, Mitsubishi Corporation, BAR Technologies (BAR Tech), and Yara Marine Technologies (Yara Marine) announced that Mitsubishi Corporation controlled MV Pyxis Ocean as the first bulk carrier to undergo the building and deployment of BAR Tech’s pioneering wind propulsion technology WindWings. Singapore-based shipowner and operator Berge Bulk will install WindWings sails developed by Portsmouth-based BAR Technologies and rotor sails built by Anemoi Marine Technologies. Singapore-based shipowner and operator Berge Bulk has appeared as a front runner among shipowners organized to test various wind propulsion technologies as Berge Bulk strives to understand how best to cut bunker use and emissions. In 2023, Berge Bulk will install WindWings sails on three (3) more capesize bulk carriers. WindWings are developed by Portsmouth-based BAR Technologies and rotor sails built by Anemoi Marine Technologies. 3-September-2022
Singapore-based shipowner and operator Berge Bulk has approved installing four (4) WindWings delivered by Yara Marine Technologies on 2018 built capesize bulk carrier 2010K DWT MV Berge Olympus. James Marshall-led Berge Bulk has become the second shipowner and operator to opt to install BAR Technologies’ WindWings sails to a bulk carrier. Berge Bulk has approved installing four (4) WindWings in Q2 2023 to decrease CO2 emissions by up to 30% through a combination of wind propulsion and route optimization. Singapore-based shipowner and operator Berge Bulk’s move is a significant step towards Berge Bulk’s transition to zero-emission operations. Berge Bulk believes in the outcomes that can be accomplished by harnessing wind power. The assessed impact on decreasing emissions can be at least as important as transitional fuels. BAR Technologies stated installing WindWings technology to existing ships means firms such as Berge Bulk can begin to make an immediate impact on decarbonizing their fleets while seeing substantial efficiencies in current bunker use. Yara Marine expressed that the wind has been the most prominent ship propulsion available for centuries. This partnership between Singapore-based shipowner and operator Berge Bulk, BAR Technologies, and Yara Marine soars the wind propulsion. Currently, Singapore-based shipowner and operator Berge Bulk operates around 80 ships. 2-August-2022
Singapore-based shipowner and operator Berge Bulk will disburse around $1 billion over five years as Berge Bulk aims to decarbonize the company’s large bulk carrier fleet. James Marshall-led Berge Bulk prepares to spend $1 billion on a combination of decarbonization technology as well as carbon offsetting. Singapore-based shipowner and operator Berge Bulk aims to be carbon neutral by 2025. Berge Bulk will achieve that by utilizing a four-step process. Firstly, Berge Bulk will improve carbon efficiency by building more efficient vessels. Secondly, Berge Bulk will retrofit carbon-saving appliances such as sails and solar power. Thirdly, Berge Bulk will try new bunkers such as ammonia or some sort of biofuel. Singapore-based shipowner and operator Berge Bulk does not believe in LNG because LNG is a carbon-based fuel and eventually the Berge Bulk must use zero-carbon bunkers. Lastly, Berge Bulk will plant 25 million trees over the next five years. Singapore-based shipowner and operator Berge Bulk will start today and the company will not wait until 2040 or 2050. Singapore-based shipowner and operator Berge Bulk thinks that IMO (International Maritime Organization) targets for carbon reduction are too slack and not aggressive enough. 20-May-2022
Singapore-based shipowner and operator Berge Bulk acquired 2012 built capesize bulk carrier 175K DWT MV Aqua Splendor for around $28 million from Marina Leasing. MV Aqua Splendor has no BWTS (Ballast Water Treatment System or scrubber fitted. Singapore-based shipowner and operator Berge Bulk will take delivery of MV Aqua Splendor immediately, allowing the company to benefit from a robust dry bulk market. Baltic Dry Index (BDI) has reached 4,147 points for the first time since 2010. 2012 built capesize bulk carrier 175K DWT MV Aqua Splendor would become the fifth capesize bulk carrier that Berge Bulk has acquired in 2021. Since the beginning of 2021, Singapore-based shipowner and operator Berge Bulk acquired 2011 built capesize bulk carrier 180K DWT MV Berge Nanga Parbat (ex MV Xin Tan Hai), 2007 built capesize bulk carrier 177K DWT MV Berge Broad Peak (ex MV Unique Carrier), 2011 built capesize bulk carrier 179K DWT MV Berge Dhaulagiri (ex MV Kumiai Shagang), and 2011 built capesize bulk carrier 181K DWT MV Berge McClintock (ex Aqua Crystal). 23-August-2021
Singapore-based shipowner and operator Berge Bulk signed a new contract to retrofit several scrubbers to more of its ships. Berge Bulk continued dedication to decreasing emissions on bulk carriers. Furthermore, Yara Marine Technologies provides long-term service and maintenance for all scrubbers on Berge Bulk’s fleet. Yara Marine Technologies share Berge Bulk’s commitment to reducing emissions. Berge Bulk is one of Yara Marine’s most prominent long-standing customers. Yara Marine looks forward to retrofitting even more of Berge Bulk’s fleet with the exhaust gas cleaning technology. Service agreements with ship operators are becoming a central part of Yara Marine’s offerings now that its scrubbers have been fitted on a large number of ships worldwide. 28-June-2021
Singapore-based shipowner and operator Berge Bulk sold 1986 built the largest bulker in the world 364K DWT MV Berge Stahl was sold for in Bangladesh for $496 per LDT (Light Displacement Tonnage) which is around $20 million. The largest bulker in the world 364K DWT MV Berge Stahl was by far the oldest in the Berge Bulk fleet. In 2003, James Marshall-led shipowner and operator Berge Bulk acquired the largest bulker in the world MV Berge Stahl as part of the Sohmen family’s purchase of Bergesen DY. The largest bulker in the world 364K DWT MV Berge Stahl was planned to carry iron ore from Brazil to Germany. Singapore-based shipowner and operator Berge Bulk has a fleet of 78 large bulk carriers. 18-April-2021
Singapore based shipowner and operator Berge Bulk acquired 2007 built capesize bulk carrier 177K DWT MV Unique Carrier for around $11.5 million from Unique Shipping. James Marshall led Berge Bulk proceeds to expand its fleet. Berge Bulk has ordered several newcastlemax bulk carrier new-buildings at Bohai Shipbuilding. In 2020, Singapore based shipowner and operator Berge Bulk acquired six (6) bulk carriers. Currently, Berge Bulk controls 75 bulk carriers. 9-January-2021
Singapore-based shipowner and operator Berge Bulk is selling another large ore carrier for demolition. James Marshall led Berge Bulk is selling 1995 built VLOC (Very Large Ore Carrier) 265K DWT MV Berge Lhotse (ex MV Oriental Beauty) for scrap for around $15 million. MV Berge Lhotse (ex MV Oriental Beauty) is due for SS (Special Survey) in January 2020. Since 2019, Berge Bulk has sold around ten bulk carriers to scrapyards. In 2012, Berge Bulk acquired MV Berge Lhotse (ex MV Oriental Beauty) from COSCO Shanghai Ship Management Co. Ltd. MV Berge Lhotse (ex MV Oriental Beauty will call at Yantai Port China at the end of November. Recently, Singapore based shipowner and operator Berge Bulk has been busy in the S&P (Sale and Purchase) market. Berge Bulk acquired 2012 built capesize bulk carrier 176K DWT MV CSSC Wan Mei for around $18 million. Including MV CSSC Wan Mei, Berge Bulk has acquired six (6) capesize bulk carriers in 2020. Currently, Singapore-based shipowner and operator Berge Bulk controls a fleet of 78 bulk carriers. 23-November-2020
Singapore based shipowner and operator Berge Bulk acquired 2008 built capesize bulk carrier 177K DWT MV Cape Fushen from a Japanese shipowner Fukujin Kisen for around $14 million. MV Cape Fushen is operated by Tokyo based giant ship operator K Line. In 2008, MV Cape Fushen was built at Shanghai Waigaoqiao Shipyard. In September 2020, Berge Bulk acquired 2006 built capesize bulk carrier 203K DWT MV Cape Daisy for around $13 million. In July 2020, Berge Bulk acquired 2005 built capesize bulk carrier 203K DWT MV Berge Dinara (ex MV Cape Rosa) for around $14 million. Since the beginning of 2020, Singapore based shipowner and operator Berge Bulk has sold four (4) capesize bulk carriers to scrapyards. Japanese steel mills have decreased iron ore demand and Japanese shipowners started to dispose of the bulk carriers. Japanese three (3) giant ship operators NYK Line, K Line, and Mitsui OSK Lines do not take the risk of operating bulk carriers at the spot market. 14-September-2020
Singapore based shipowner and operator Berge Bulk controlled 2016 built capesize bulk carrier 211K DWT MV Berge Zugspitze’s crew members turn the ship into floating vegetable farm. Berge Bulk’s crew members fixed a vertical hydroponic system to create a vertical garden at sea to grow up vegetables. Berge Bulk’s crew members have been harvesting and cooking vegetables in the galley during coronavirus pandemic. Berge Bulk’s crew members are delighted that they are consuming vegetables that haven’t been touched by other people. Furthermore, Berge Bulk’s crew members are experiencing new vegetables that they have never heard of before. James Marshall led Berge Bulk intends to capture CO2 emissions, whilst at the same time producing fresh, sustainable vegetables that the crew can harvest. Furthermore, harvesting is a stress-busting activity for the crew members of Berge Bulk. 19-August-2020
Singapore based shipowner and operator Berge Bulk is selling another large ore carrier for demolition. Berge Bulk is aiming to renew its fleet. Berge Bulk is selling 268K DWT MV Berge Hua Shan (built-in 1993) for scrapping in either Bangladesh or India. In 2019, Berge Bulk sold four (4) large bulk carriers for scrap:
- In December 2019, Berge Bulk sold 290K DWT MV Berge Vinson (built-in 1990) for $398 per ldt (Lightweight Displacement Tonnage) or for about $15 million.
- In December 2019, Berge Bulk sold 289K DWT MV Berge Bureya (built-in 1993) for $410 per ldt (Lightweight Displacement Tonnage) or for about $15.3 million.
- In March 2019, Berge Bulk sold 263K DWT MV Berge Manuslo (built-in 1992) for $448 per ldt (Lightweight Displacement Tonnage).
- In March 2019, Berge Bulk sold 289K DWT MV Berge Denali (built-in 1992) for $465 per ldt (Lightweight Displacement Tonnage).
Berge Bulk received higher prices for demolition at the beginning of 2019. Berge Bulk still prefer the traditional but controversial beaching method for scrapping their ships. In September 2019, Berge Bulk acquired 176K DWT MV Bulk Success (built-in 2014), for about $24 million. James Marshall led Berge Bulk has a fleet of 60 large bulk carriers. 4-January-2020
Singapore based shipowner and operator Berge Bulk scrapped fourth VLOC (Very Large Ore Carrier) in 2019. James Marshall led Berge Bulk sold 1990 built VLOC (Very Large Ore Carrier) 290K DWT MV Berge Vinson for demolition in Bangladesh at around $398 per ldt (Light Displacement Tonnage), around $15 million. Demolition price tag of MV Berge Vinson includes 350 tons of bunkers onboard. MV Berge Vinson was put up for sale in the sale and purchase market in November 2019. In May 2008, Berge Bulk purchased MV Berge Vinson (ex MV Ness) from Sinotrans for $36 million. MV Berge Vinson (ex MV Ness) is not due for a special survey until July 2022.
Berge Bulk has already sold three (3) VLOCs (Very Large Ore Carriers) for demolition so far in 2019:
• MV Berge Denali (289K DWT 1992 built)
• MV Berge Manaslu (263K DWT 1992 built)
• MV Berge Bureya (289K DWT 1993 built)
Singapore based shipowner and operator Berge Bulk’s oldest ship in its fleet is 1986 built biggest bulk carrier in the world 364K DWT MV Berge Stahl. Including newbuilding orders, Berge Bulk has a fleet of 71 bulk carriers. 12-December-2019
Singapore based shipowner and operator Berge Bulk spend $540 million for up to eight (8) dual-fuelled newcastlemax bulk carriers with two (2) options. James Marshall led Berge Bulk has commissioned Shanghai Waigaoqiao Shipbuilding (SWS) to construct LNG-fuelled newcastlemax bulk carriers for delivery at the end of 2021 and in early 2022. Furthermore, Berge Bulk is in discussions with Qingdao Beihai Shipbuilding Heavy Industry for a similar newbuilding order. Berge Bulk is paying around $67 million for each LNG-fuelled newcastlemax bulk carrier new-buildings. Currently, conventional Tier III compliant newcastlemax bulk carrier costs around $53 million, LNG-fuelled newcastlemax bulk carrier costs an additional $14 million. Singapore based shipowner and operator Berge Bulk will become the first company to sign up for LNG-fuelled newcastlemax bulk carriers. The latest orders are in line with Berge Bulk’s fleet renewal and expansion. In 2019, Berge Bulk scrapped three (3) VLOCs (Very Large Ore Carriers):
• MV Berge Denali (289K DWT 1992 Built)
• MV Berge Manaslu (263K DWT 1992 Built)
• MV Berge Bureya (289K DWT 1993 Built)
In October 2019, Berge Bulk acquired 2014 built capesize bulk carrier 176K DWT Berge Orizaba (ex MV Bulk Success) from Shanghai HNA Marine Shipping for $24.5 million. In 2020, Berge Bulk is entering ultramax segment with the newbuilding deliveries of 63K DWT MV Berge Yotei and 63K DWT MV Berge Tateyama. Currently, Singapore based shipowner and operator Berge Bulk has a fleet of 71 ships. 1-December-2019
Vale, the Brazilian mining giant, has finalized the sale of the MV Ore Bayovar, a veteran ore carrier constructed in 1998, for scrapping, fetching $8.15 million. This sale highlights the current downtrend in recycling prices, with the vessel achieving $372 per light displacement ton (lwt) for its 179K DWT. Scheduled for dismantling at a site compliant with the Hong Kong International Convention for the Safe and Environmentally Sound Recycling of Ships, this move underscores Vale’s dedication to eco-friendly recycling practices. The sale proceeds of the MV Ore Bayovar, which Vale acquired back in April 2009 for $36.5 million, closely matched initial estimates of around $8 million. This deal emerges against the backdrop of a volatile scrap metal market, as evidenced by Berge Bulk’s recent sale of the Berge Bureya, a 289,000-dwt vessel from 1993, for $410 per long ton deadweight (ldt) or $15.3 million, marking its third VLOC scrap transaction of the year. These transactions occur within a challenging market environment, pressured by domestic mills and re-rolling plants finding heavy melting scrap from abroad at prices undercutting those demanded by recyclers, prompting a reevaluation of buying strategies. Ed McIlvaney, a scrap shipbroker, pointed out the transient nature of the recent spike in scrap prices, attributing the downturn to a steady drop in domestic market offers to end receivers. This trend, exacerbated by the influx of cheaper foreign imports, injects sustained uncertainty into the market, expected to continue until such imports cease. McIlvaney also commented on the speculative aspect of Berge Bulk’s sale price and noted that the recent market slump has been unfavorable for cash buyers. Factoring in the premium for environmentally responsible recycling in Hong Kong, Vale’s deal reflects a delivered price well under $400 per lwt, shedding light on the current strains facing the recycling market. 27-October-2019
Singapore based shipowner and operator Berge Bulk sold 1993 built VLOC (Very Large Ore Carrier) 289K DWT MV Berge Burey for demolition for around $410 per ldt (Light Displacement Tonnage). MV Berge Burey is the third VLOC (Very Large Ore Carrier) that James Marshall led Berge Bulk sold to scrap. Berge Bulk has been in the fleet renewal programme. MV Berge Burey has been out of its long-term charter deal. MV Berge Burey is not due for SS (Special Survey) until 2021. Previously, Berge Bulk sold 1992 built VLOC (Very Large Ore Carrier) 263K DWT MV Berge Manuslo for around $448 per ldt (Light Displacement Tonnage) and 1992 built VLOC (Very Large Ore Carrier) 289K DWT MV Berge Denali for around $465 per ldt (Light Displacement Tonnage). In September 2019, Singapore-based shipowner and operator Berge Bulk acquired a 2014 built capesize bulk carrier 176K DWT MV Berge Orizaba (ex MV Bulk Success) for around $24 million. Furthermore, Berge Bulk has four (4) newcastlemax new-building orders at Bohai Shipyard. Berge Bulk is a leading player in the capesize segment. Currently, Berge Bulk has a fleet of 50 large bulk carriers. 16-October-2019
Singapore based shipowner and operator Berge Bulk Shipping acquired buys five-year-old capesize bulk carrier. CEO James Marshall led Berge Bulk Shipping acquired 2014 built capesize bulk carrier 176K DWT MV Bulk Success for around $24 million from HNA Marine, China. MV Bulk Success was constructed at Jinhai Heavy Industries, China. Berge Bulk Shipping is in fleet renewal move. MV Bulk Success’ price tag reflects the firmer capesize freight market is not yet lifting ship values. The estimated sale and purchase (S&P) market value of MV Bulk Success is around $28 million. In March 2019, Berge Bulk Shipping sold 1992 built 263K DWT MV Berge Manaslu and 1992 built 289K DWT MV Berge Denali for demolition. Berge Bulk Shipping operates around 70 bulk carriers. 4-September-2019
Singaporean shipowner Berge Bulk and Brazilian mining giant Vale scraps dry bulk carriers in hot scrapping market. James Marshall led Berge Bulk sold 1992 built 263K DWT MV Berge Manaslu at a price of $18 million ($457.50 per ldt – Light Displacement Tonnage). Berge Bulk has a fleet of 60 dry bulk carriers that are capesize or larger ships. Brazilian mining giant Vale sold 1999 built 169K DWT MV Ore Guaiba to Bangladesh for green recycling for $10 million ($450 per ldt – Light Displacement Tonnage). In May 2009, Vale bought MV Ore Guaiba (ex MV Tai Shan) from Sincere Navigation for $36 million. 31-March-2019
Singapore based shipowner and operator Berge Bulk sold 1992 built VLOC (Very Large Ore Carrier) 289K DWT MV Berge Denali for demolition for around $465 per ldt (Light Displacement Tonnage). MV Berge Denali deal includes 600 tons of bunkers. MV Berge Denali is due for SS (Special Survey) in June 2021. James Marshall led Berge Bulk is the fourth player after Cosco, John Fredriksen, and John Angelicoussis in terms of managing large bulk carriers. Singapore based shipowner and operator Berge Bulk was established in 2007. Notwithstanding a weak capesize spot market in 2019, very few capesize bulk carriers have been sold for demolition in 2019. Capesize bulk carriers rates have been pounded in 2019 following a dam collapse at a Vale facility. Vale closedown of iron ore mines with a combined capacity of 40 million tons. According to capesize players, ship scrapping saves capesize rates. It seems that the weak iron ore demand and scrapping will increase a lot in near future. 25-February-2019
Singapore based shipowner and operator Berge Bulk and Brazi based commodity giant Vale are both reported to have each sold a capesize dry for demolition. 1998 built capesize dry bulk carrier 172K DWT M/V Berge Atlantic was sent to a Bangladesh scrapyard. 1986 built capesize dry bulk carrier 251K DWT M/V Ore Brutucu was also sent to Bangladesh Scrapyards. Cash buyer GMS said these two (2) capesize dry bulk carriers appear to be at least $15 to $20 per ldt (Lightweight Displacement Tonnage) ahead of the market. 21-December-2016