19-July-2022
Angela Chao, at the helm of Foremost Group, has recently overseen the signing of a contract for two new 185K DWT capesize bulk carriers, which are to be constructed by Namura Shipbuilding in Japan. These vessels are slated for seven-year charters with Nippon Yusen Kaisha (NYK), marking a new venture for the New York-based shipowner and operator Foremost Group with Namura Shipbuilding. The bulk carriers, classified as Tier III in terms of environmental and efficiency standards, are scheduled for delivery in 2024. Although the financial details of the agreement for these capesize bulk carrier newbuildings have not been disclosed, this partnership signals a significant move for Foremost Group. Angela Chao, serving as the chair and CEO of the company, expressed enthusiasm about this collaboration, indicating a positive outlook for their relationship with Namura Shipbuilding in the years ahead.
18-July-2022
Zeaborn Ship Management has successfully secured a contract to manage four handysize geared bulk carriers owned by Montreal-based Fednav. As part of this agreement, Fednav, recognized for its expertise in operating ice-class bulk carriers, has already transferred the 2012-built MV Federal Skeena to Zeaborn Ship Management. The identities of the remaining three bulk carriers set to be managed by Zeaborn have not yet been disclosed. Fednav, which commands a fleet of approximately 120 ice-class bulk carriers, asserts that this collaboration with Zeaborn Ship Management will enhance its ability to meet the complex and demanding shipping needs of today’s maritime environment. Zeaborn Ship Management, headquartered in Hamburg with a strategic hub in Singapore and additional offices across Asia and Europe, is actively managing a diverse fleet that includes containerships, bulk carriers, multipurpose ships (MPPs), and chemical tankers. Zeaborn Ship Management has consistently expressed its ambition to forge long-term partnerships with charterers, aiming to become an integral part of their operational framework and to effectively execute their business strategies. The partnership with Fednav underscores Zeaborn Ship Management’s commitment to this goal. With the integration of MV Federal Skeena into its management portfolio, Zeaborn Ship Management is poised to demonstrate its value and expertise in the field, reaffirming its position as a trusted partner in the global shipping industry.
18-July-2022
London-based Lomar Shipping’s Chief Financial Officer (CFO), Manos Kouligkas, has been promoted to the esteemed position of CEO within the renowned Libra Group, led by George Logothetis. The visionary George Logothetis has now assumed the role of Executive Chairman of the distinguished Libra Group, appointing Manos Kouligkas as his successor in the esteemed position of Chief Executive Officer (CEO). Having served as the CFO of Lomar Shipping since 2012, Manos Kouligkas will commence his new role on 3rd October, operating from Libra Shipping’s headquarters in New York. This strategic move by George Logothetis marks a pivotal moment for the esteemed Libra Group, which originated from Lomar Shipping in the early 2000s. Today, the group boasts a diverse portfolio spanning maritime, aviation, renewable energy, real estate, and hospitality, among other prosperous ventures.
18-July-2022
Zeaborn Ship Management GmbH & Co. KG has triumphantly secured a bid to oversee four handysize geared bulk vessels on behalf of the esteemed Canadian enterprise, Fednav. The distinguished Montreal-based Fednav has gracefully transferred the 2012 built MV Federal Skeena, into Zeaborn Ship Management GmbH & Co. KG’s care. The identities of the trio of ships destined to augment Zeaborn Ship Management GmbH & Co. KG’s bulk carriers management repertoire remain undisclosed. Fednav, with its impressive armada of roughly 120 ice-class bulk carriers, articulated that this strategic move is designed to amplify their prowess in delivering unparalleled service for maritime logistics amidst an evolving and intricate nautical landscape. The illustrious bulk carriers, with its headquarters elegantly perched in Hamburg, boasts a formidable presence in Singapore, complemented by additional establishments dispersed across Asia and Europe. Zeaborn Ship Management GmbH & Co. KG’s expertise encompasses the adept management of a diverse range of marine vessels including container ships, bulk carriers, versatile multipurpose ships, and specialized chemical tankers. “We’ve always aspired to be the enduring allies of our patrons, seamlessly assimilating into the fabric of their establishments, commissioned to actualize their vision. Collaborating with Fednav reinforces our trajectory’s precision. With the recent acquisition of the initial ship, the stage is set for us to demonstrate our unparalleled value,” remarked Michael Brandhoff, the esteemed Chief Executive Officer of Zeaborn Ship Management GmbH & Co. KG.
17-July-2022
Athens-based ship operator Aquavita International S.A. chartered in 2007 built capesize bulk carrier 177K DWT MV Boston from Athens-based New York-listed shipowner and operator Diana Shipping (DSX) for a period between April 1, 2023, and May 31, 2023, at a daily rate of $20,500. Ukrainian-Greek ship operator Aquavita International will pay a minimum of $5.25 million total. This rate represents a significant increase from its previous employment with Richland Bulk, which was set at $13,000 per day. The charter for the2007 built capesize bulk carrier 177K DWT MV Boston started on July 15. In addition to this contract, Diana Shipping (DSX) recently secured favorable charter rates for two other bulk carriers. The 2013 post-panamax MV Electra was chartered to Refined Success Limited, while the 2010-built capesize MV New York was chartered to C Transport Maritime.
17-July-2022
Imabari-based shipowner Nissen Kaiun ordered four (4) 50K DWT product carriers at Hyundai Mipo Dockyard (HMD). Hyundai Mipo Dockyard (HMD). Japanese shipowner Nissen Kaiun will take the delivery of four (4) MR tanker newbuilding in December 2024. Japanese tonnage provider Nissen Kaiun is one of Japan’s biggest privately owned shipping companies.
15-July-2022
Zeaborn Ship Management GmbH & Co. KG has been awarded a contract to manage four handysize geared bulk carriers for Montreal-based Fednav. The arrangement has already seen the delivery of the 2012-built MV Federal Skeena to Zeaborn Ship Management GmbH & Co. KG, with the names of the remaining three vessels yet to be announced. Lakes-fitted leader shipowner and operator Fednav, which manages around 120 ice-class bulk carriers, believes that partnering with Zeaborn Ship Management GmbH & Co. KG will enhance its service offerings to meet the complex demands of modern maritime operations. Zeaborn Ship Management GmbH & Co. KG, with its headquarters in Hamburg and a significant presence in Singapore, as well as offices across Asia and Europe, manages a varied fleet that includes containerships, bulk carriers, multipurpose ships (MPPs), and chemical tankers. Zeaborn Ship Management GmbH & Co. KG has consistently aimed to establish long-term relationships with charterers, striving to become an essential part of their operations and help execute their commercial objectives. This collaboration with Fednav affirms Zeaborn Ship Management GmbH & Co. KG’s commitment to its goals. The inclusion of MV Federal Skeena into its management roster is an opportunity for Zeaborn Ship Management GmbH & Co. KG to showcase its capabilities and strengthen its reputation as a reliable partner in the international shipping sector.
14-July-2022
Japanese shipowner Doun Kisen KK (aka Doun Kisen Co. Ltd) owned and Belgium-based Cobelfret operated MV Lowlands Comfort’s crew member named as Crispin F Cadiz was killed when he was hit by a crane in the Indian Ocean. Japanese shipowner Doun Kisen KK (aka Doun Kisen Co. Ltd) owned and Belgium-based Cobelfret operated 2016 built kamsarmax bulk carrier 82K DWT MV Lowlands Comfort’s crew member named as Crispin F Cadiz’s body was brought ashore in Indonesia. Doun Kisen KK’s (aka Doun Kisen Co. Ltd) manager STX Marine Service reported that the tragic accident is a deck disaster brought on by wild weather. Japanese shipowner Doun Kisen KK (aka Doun Kisen Co. Ltd) owned 2016 built kamsarmax bulk carrier 82K DWT MV Lowlands Comfort had been steaming from the United States via the Suez Canal to China. Crew member named as Crispin F Cadiz was treated on the MV Lowlands Comfort, but eventually passed away. Japanese shipowner and operator Doun Kisen KK (aka Doun Kisen Co. Ltd) owned MV Lowlands Comfort has insurance from the Japan P&I Club. Japanese shipowner Doun Kisen KK (aka Doun Kisen Co. Ltd) is one of the biggest tonnage providers in Japan. Doun Kisen KK (aka Doun Kisen Co. Ltd) charters out the bulk carriers on a long-term basis to giant traders and first-class ship operators.
7-July-2022
HBC Hamburg Bulk Carriers GmbH & Co. KG will receive a $95 million loan from Hamburg Commercial Bank (HCOB). Hamburg Bulk Carriers (HBC) will refinance seven (7) handymax bulk carriers. The agreement marks a step forward for Hamburg Commercial Bank’s (HCOB) new partnership with Philip Clausius-led investment brokerage Transport Capital. Transport Capital was established to represent the privatized German bank in Asia. Hamburg Commercial Bank (HCOB) is delighted to have received Hamburg Bulk Carriers (HBC) as a new client with an office in both Hamburg and Singapore. In April 2021, Hamburg Commercial Bank (HCOB), the former HSH Nordbank, cooperated with Transport Capital. Hamburg Commercial Bank (HCOB) and Transport Capital target small and medium-sized maritime corporations with substantial operational track records. Hamburg Bulk Carriers (HBC) was established in Hamburg in 1999 by Jens von Husen and Georg Greilinger. Hamburg Bulk Carriers (HBC) is a bulk ship operator for minor cargoes. Currently, Hamburg Bulk Carriers (HBC) operates a fleet of 15 bulk carriers.
6-July-2022
Shanghai-listed HNA Technology (previously known as Tianjin Tianhai Investment Co and Tianjin Marine Shipping) acquired one (1) panamax and five (5) supramax bulk carriers. HNA Technology is a Chinese holding company that specialized in marine transportation services. HNA Technology spends around $106 million on one (1) panamax and five (5) supramax bulk carriers.
Shanghai-listed HNA Technology (previously known as Tianjin Tianhai Investment Co and Tianjin Marine Shipping) acquired:
2007 built panamax bulk carrier 74K DWT MV Van Continent for around $18.5 million 2006 built supramax bulk carrier 53K DWT MV Van Auspicious for around $16million 2008 built supramax bulk carrier 53K DWT MV Van Bonita for around $18.5 million 2007 built supramax bulk carrier 53K DWT MV Van Eternity for around $16.5 million 2006 built supramax bulk carrier 53K DWT MV Van Duffy for around $17 million 2011 built supramax bulk carrier 57K DWT MV Van General for around $19 million
In December 2021, Shanghai-listed-HNA Technology (previously known as Tianjin Tianhai Investment Co and Tianjin Marine Shipping) acquired nine (9) vessels for a total of $167 million.
Shanghai-listed HNA Technology is a division of Chinese transport conglomerate HNA Group, which was declared to be exiting the bulk carrier market in 2019 by disposing of its fleet. HNA Technology ditched the plan at the end of 2021. Shanghai-listed-HNA Technology acquired 2012 built capesize bulk carrier 175K DWT MV Bulk Harvest and 2012 built capesize bulk carrier 175K DWT MV Bulk Joyance from compatriot Pu Hang Leasing for around $22 million each.
In May 2021, Shanghai-listed HNA Technology 2009 built supramax bulk carrier 56K DWT MV Van Fortune for around $16.5 million from Wanyun Shipping. Shanghai-listed HNA Technology is keen to add to its fleet of 17 ships.
6-July-2022
UAE-based Safeen Feeders acquired two (2) supramax bulk carriers. UAE-based AD Ports’ shipping arm Safeen Feeders acquired 2010 built supramax bulk carrier 57K DWT MV Al Saad (ex MV Orient Lucky) for around $18 million from Pacific Linking and 2010 built supramax bulk carrier 56K DWT MV Aleena 1 (ex MV Amoy Action) for around $18 million from Amoysailing Maritime. In April, Safeen Feeders entered the dry bulk sector via a collaboration with Bangladeshi conglomerate Saif Powertec. Safeen Feeders is the liner arm of Abu Dhabi’s AD Ports Group. MV Aleena 1 (ex MV Amoy Action) and MV Al Saad (ex MV Orient Lucky) have been delivered to the UAE-based Safeen Feeders. UAE-based Safeen Feeders cooperated with Saif Powertec for a 15-year trade facilitation and shipping agreement to see Safeen Feeders deliver eight (8) supramax bulk carriers on bareboat and time charters to a jointly owned and operated bulk shipping services company. UAE-based Safeen Feeders controlled MV Aleena 1 (ex MV Amoy Action) and MV Al Saad (ex MV Orient Lucky) will initially carry cargoes from ports in the UAE to the ports of Chattogram and Mongla in Bangladesh. Safeen Feeders cooperated and the Saif Powertec venture will also manage cargo operations to the Indian subcontinent, South East Asia (SEA), and other international ports. Safeen Feeders cooperated and the Saif Powertec venture covers forthcoming areas of collaboration to expand and invest in the maritime infrastructure and projects of the United Arabian Emirates and Bangladesh. Captain Ammar Mubarak Al Shaiba-led Safeen Feeders aims to expand into various maritime shipping sectors. UAE-based AD Ports established Safeen Feeders in 2020 with Singapore-based Bengal Tiger Line as a strategic partner. Safeen Feeders focus remains on building a large portfolio of ocean-going ships and services for the charterers.
5-July-2022
Hong Kong-based shipowner and operator Pacific Basin Shipping Limited controlled 2004 built handysize bulk carrier 28K DWT MV Portland Bay lost power in a storm off Monday and had been drifting back to shore in Australia. 2004 built handysize bulk carrier 28K DWT MV Portland Bay dropped anchor off 2 km from a Sydney. Efforts have failed to tow Pacific Basin Shipping controlled 2004 built handysize bulk carrier 28K DWT MV Portland Bay into the deep sea. Port Authority of New South Wales declared slow and steady progress amid difficult weather circumstances. Pacific Basin Shipping-controlled MV Portland Bay crew members have had the chance to refresh and get some rest after operating in these extremely challenging and dangerous circumstances. MV Portland Bay crew members are trying to repair the main engine. A rescue plan had been drawn up on Monday to airlift the 21 seafarers from MV Portland Bay, but weather conditions were too harsh. Hong Kong-based shipowner and operator Pacific Basin Shipping reported that all 21 crew members on board MV Portland Bay remain safe, with no pollution or reported damage to the MV Portland Bay. Hong Kong-based shipowner and operator Pacific Basin Shipping thanked The Australian Maritime Safety Authority (AMSA), Salvors, and New South Wales authorities, who reacted instantly to requests for assistance. Pacific Basin Shipping’s priority is the safety of the crew members, the MV Portland Bay, and the New South Wales coastline. Hong Kong-based shipowner and operator Pacific Basin Shipping plans to tow the MV Portland Bay to Port Botany. MV Portland Bay was carrying cement from Port Kembla. MV Portland Bay’s main engine was reported to have blown up, leaving the MV Portland Bay adrift in waves of up to eight meters. Hong Kong-based shipowner and operator Pacific Basin Shipping controlled 2004 built handysize bulk carrier 28K DWT MV Portland Bay has insurance cover from the North of England Club.
5-July-2022
Athens-based and New York-listed shipowner and operator Diana Shipping Inc. (DSX), led by Semiramis Paliou, has secured improved time charter contracts expected to generate at least approximately $12.5m. The company has chartered its 2013 post-panamax bulk carrier MV Electra to Refined Success Limited, a subsidiary of COSCO Shipping. The charter will run from July 2 to a period between April 1, 2023, and May 30, 2023, at a daily rate of $17,500. This rate is an increase from its previous charter to Singapore-based ship operator Raffles Ship Chartering Pte Ltd, a subsidiary of commodity trader Wilmar International, which was at $16,500 per day. Raffles Ship Chartering Pte Ltd is an integral part of the logistics and transportation operations of Wilmar International, focusing on the efficient and reliable maritime transport of commodities. Operating from Singapore, one of the busiest shipping hubs in the world, Raffles Ship Chartering has established itself as a significant player in the shipping industry. The company’s expertise includes managing a diverse fleet that transports a wide range of bulk commodities, enhancing Wilmar International’s global supply chain capabilities. Its strategic role involves not only chartering vessels but also managing logistics tailored to the needs of international trade markets, thereby supporting Wilmar’s extensive trading operations. This recent engagement with Diana Shipping Inc. underscores its active participation in the competitive shipping market, leveraging long-term charters to ensure stable and predictable logistics solutions.