Logistica Brasil, also known as the Brazilian Shippers Association in English, has called for an investigation into Montreal-based shipowner and operator Fednav, citing ‘suspicions of irregularity’ in Brazil’s coastal trade. Following a complaint lodged by the trade group, a federal agency has requested documentation from the Canadian shipowner. The complaint accuses Fednav, a prominent Canadian bulk carrier operator, of potential irregularities involving one of its bulk carriers in Brazil’s domestic trades. Fednav, established in 1944, is Canada’s largest ocean-going dry bulk shipowning and chartering group, primarily engaged in transporting bulk and breakbulk cargoes worldwide. The company is known for its extensive fleet, which includes ice-class vessels well-suited for arctic navigation, underscoring its operational expertise in challenging maritime environments. Logistica Brasil filed the complaint with Brazil’s National Water Transport Agency, referred to by its Portuguese acronym ANTAQ. Abrahao Salomao, a director at Logistica Brasil, emphasized that while Brazil welcomes foreign shipowners, they must adhere to local regulations. This investigation underscores the need for transparency and compliance in international shipping operations, particularly in national waters where specific trade laws apply. 4-September-2024
Montreal-based shipowner and operator Fednav has participated in the active S&P (Sale and Purchase) market for Japanese-built ships, selling its ultramax bulk carrier as shipowners increasingly pursue Japanese vessels. The trend for acquiring Japanese ultramax bulk carriers was particularly notable in April 2024. As a leader in Lakes-fitted shipping, Fednav has successfully sold the 2017-built ultramax bulk carrier, the 63K DWT MV Federal Island, for approximately $32 million, highlighting the ongoing demand for quality tonnage. This ultramax bulk carrier, MV Federal Island, which features gears, was constructed at the Tadotsu Shipyard according to Imabari’s New I-Star design, embodying high standards of engineering and efficiency that are sought after in the maritime industry. 23-April-2024
Canadian bulk carrier operator Fednav has agreed to sell its marine terminal business to Logistec Stevedoring, a subsidiary of Logistec Corporation, for $105 million. This transaction includes Fednav’s Canadian and U.S. terminal operations, encompassing Federal Marine Terminals and the logistics division, Fednav Direct. Fednav, a leading shipowner and operator known for its Lakes-fitted vessels, has managed terminal facilities across ports in Canada and the U.S. for over five decades. These facilities have offered a range of services including stevedoring, handling, and warehousing for bulk, containerized, project cargo, and general cargo. Additionally, they provided inventory management and inland transportation solutions. The Montréal-headquartered company, which operates approximately 120 bulk carriers—about 60 of which it owns—expects the transaction to be finalized by 31 March 2022. With this acquisition, Logistec Stevedoring will expand its operational footprint, adding 11 terminals to its existing network. This expansion will bring Logistec Stevedoring’s total to 90 terminals across 60 ports in North America, significantly enhancing its service capabilities in the region. 5-March-2023
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
Canadian bulk carrier operator Fednav has entered into a shipbuilding agreement with Japan’s Sumisho Marine and Oshima Shipbuilding to construct ten lake-fitted bulk carriers. The first of these carriers is scheduled for delivery in mid-2023. Although the financial details of the contract remain undisclosed, these new vessels will be equipped with Tier III engines and the capability to utilize biofuels. Fednav has described these ten lake-fitted bulk carriers as the most environmentally efficient in its fleet, projecting a reduction in carbon emissions by 33% compared to the older ships they are set to replace. This initiative is part of Fednav’s broader commitment to investing in future capabilities and advancing towards more sustainable maritime operations. The Montreal-based shipowner and operator currently manages a fleet of approximately 120 bulk carriers, with 60 directly owned by the company. 2-September-2021
Lakes-fitted leader shipowner and operator Fednav has ordered ten (10) lakes-fitted 34K DWT handysize bulk carrier new buildings at Oshima Shipbuilding. Canadian shipowner Fednav has been in the fleet-renewal programme. Montreal-headquartered Fednav is going to take delivery of the first lakes-fitted 34K DWT handysize bulk carrier in Q3 2023. Ten (10) super-eco lakes-fitted 34K DWT handysize bulk carrier new buildings are intended to succeed the Fednav’s ships that will be scrapping over the next few years. Ten (10) super-eco lakes-fitted 34K DWT handysize bulk carrier new buildings will be outfitted with the latest technology. Ten (10) super-eco lakes-fitted 34K DWT handysize bulk carrier new buildings will reinforce the Fednav’s commitment to the Great Lakes-St Lawrence Seaway. Fednav aims at the transition towards more sustainable transportation. Fednav’s lakes-fitted bulk carriers don’t have the space for the tanks to store hydrogen or ammonia. Ten (10) super-eco lakes-fitted 34K DWT handysize bulk carrier new buildings are as fuel-efficient as possible and try to be the best in the world with this type of bulk carrier. Canadian shipowner and operator Fednav is a privately owned company with a fleet of approximately 120 bulk carriers. 1-September-2021
Canadian bulk carrier operator Fednav has unveiled plans to consolidate its shipping operations under a single management structure to better synchronize its commercial and technical divisions. As part of this restructuring, Fednav’s marine department, under the leadership of Executive Vice President Tina Revsbech, will integrate the chartering and operations teams with the shipowning, technical, and Arctic units. Tina Revsbech previously led BW Tankers. Moreover, Montreal-based Fednav has appointed Isabelle Brassard as Senior Vice President of Logistics and Sustainable Development. In her new role, Brassard will manage all land-based business operations, including Federal Marine Terminals and Fednav Direct. A veteran from Quebec, like Fednav, Brassard joins from Rio Tinto where she was responsible for the company’s shipping operations from Singapore. Paul Pathy, President and CEO of Fednav, emphasized the importance of leadership in navigating current challenges, stating, building a strong business requires hiring top talent. Over the last few years, Canadian bulk carrier operator Fednav has been carefully building our management team with elite leaders. These are tough times for everyone—but by making significant structural changes now, Fednav hopes to be among the first out of the gate when the current health and economic crisis is behind the company. The quicker Montreal-based shipowner and operator Fednav adapts to the evolving global landscape, the more effectively the company will be positioned to deliver a higher standard to the charterers. Currently, Fednav is recognized as Canada’s largest ocean-going bulk shipping company, with a fleet that includes over 120 bulk carriers, 64 of which are owned. 8-June-2020
Montreal-based shipowner and operator Fednav recently celebrated its diamond jubilee in Singapore. The celebration, marking Fednav’s 75th anniversary, took place at the Aura Sky Lounge atop the National Gallery Singapore, where around 150 shipping executives enjoyed panoramic views of Singapore’s iconic landmarks, including City Hall and Marina Bay Sands. This event was part of a global series commemorating the milestone for the family-owned company. Fednav CEO Paul Pathy, reflecting on the significance of the celebration, commented, “I have been to all offices around the world to fly Fednav’s flag. Singapore will be my last stop for the 2019 world tour, but an important stop.” He noted that while seventy-five years might not seem extensive by Asian standards, it represents half the lifetime of Canada, which is a significant marker for the company. Fednav, headquartered in Montreal, has additional offices in Tokyo, Hamburg, Antwerp, Barbados, Rio de Janeiro, St John’s in Canada, and Charlotte in the US. The company, which specializes in operating bulk carriers up to the kamsarmax size, has a fleet of about 120 vessels, 63 of which it owns outright. In 2011, Fednav expanded its operations to Singapore, starting with a chartering team of just three people. 17-November-2019
Montreal-based shipowner and operator Fednav, led by CEO Paul Pathy, takes pride in maintaining a substantial asset base, contrary to the trend of operating with lighter assets favored by many in the volatile shipping market. Currently, Fednav’s fleet has expanded to 125 bulk carriers, with 64 owned outright and the remainder under long-term charters, primarily from Japanese shipowners. This approach allows Fednav to maintain significant control over its operations, a necessity for meeting charterers’ needs, as highlighted by CEO Paul Pathy. Paul Pathy noted that while many shipowners opt for short-term charters to match with secured cargoes, Fednav adopts a longer-term perspective, securing excellent ships at competitive rates for extended periods. This strategy involves substantial financial commitments, positioning Fednav to quickly capitalize on market upswings due to its fixed-cost, reasonably priced fleet. In a recent development, Fednav is adding 15 newbuildings to its fleet over the next three years, continuing its tradition of strong ties with Japanese shipbuilding. Among these, the MV Federal Montreal, a 34K DWT handysize bulk carrier, is soon expected to join the fleet as Fednav’s 65th owned vessel, marking its 75th anniversary. Despite the inherent risks of long-term charters, which Fednav embraces as speculative without immediate cargo guarantees, the company benefits from its strategic asset management during market fluctuations. As Fednav remains a private entity, it enjoys the flexibility to navigate market dynamics without the pressure of public financial disclosures, allowing it to focus on long-term operational stability and capitalizing on regulatory changes like IMO 2020. Paul Pathy also highlighted the anticipated impact of fuel price increases on shipping rates, noting that more expensive fuel would slow ships down and effectively reduce market capacity. Fednav has prepared for the shift to low-sulfur bunkers, opting against installing scrubbers on its vessels. This approach, along with its modern fleet of primarily Japanese-built bulk carriers, underscores Fednav’s commitment to both operational efficiency and environmental compliance. 19-August-2019
Lakes-fitted leader shipowner and operator Fednav is pursuing nearly $1.2 million in security as it prepares for arbitration in London concerning a bulk carrier that experienced engine troubles at sea. Last week, the privately-held Canadian bulk carrier operator initiated a lawsuit in a Miami federal court, claiming damages after bulk cargo infiltrated the fuel tanks and damaged engines on the Naviera Ulises-managed, 2005-built handysize bulk carrier 33K DWT MV Gea in 2018. Fednav is attempting to garnish bank accounts held with Spain’s Banco Sabadell in Miami. The legal action identifies the one-time registered owner of the bulk carrier, Allpine Worldwide, linked to Naviera Ulises, as the sole defendant. Fednav alleges that it chartered the MV Gea for two to three laden voyages in September 2018. The carrier, loaded with 31.5K tonnes of sandy calcined metallurgical grade alumina in Thailand on September 30, 2018, was bound for Sept-Iles at the northeastern tip of Quebec. However, a week into the voyage, the MV Gea’s engine failed in the Indian Ocean, rendering the ship adrift for 10 days due to alumina contaminating the fuel tanks via corroded vent pipes in the cargo holds. The MV Gea underwent repairs in South Africa for 51 days before being released in mid-December 2018. Damage was subsequently identified post-discharge of the cargo in Canada in mid-January 2019, forcing Fednav into a loss-making sub-charter that concluded in February 2019 when the ship was redelivered in Poland. According to the charter agreement, disputes are to be resolved under the London Maritime Arbitrators Association (LMAA) rules. Both Fednav and Allpine have appointed their arbitrators, with a third yet to be named. Recently, the MV Gea was sold to Danish company Janchart Shipping for approximately $7 million. Fednav claims in its lawsuit that proceeds from this sale, as well as earnings from a sugar cargo delivery at a Russian port, are or will be deposited in the Banco Sabadell accounts. Fednav is represented by Miami law firm Blanck & Cooper and New York-based Floyd Zadkovich in this legal matter. 7-July-2019
Lakes-fitted leader shipowner and operator Fednav has been developing next-generation bulk carriers with Japanese shipyards. Canadian shipowner and operator Fednav wants to be a step ahead of rivals. Therefore, Fednav ordered six (6) more new-buildings at Oshima Shipbuilding. CEO Paul Pathy explained that Fednav is taking initiative by developing the next generation of lakes-fitted bulk carriers for its fleet growth. Fednav’s fleet is more efficient than competitors. Furthermore, Fednav has seen the shift towards digitalization and technology. Fednav recognized the impact of digitalization and technology has on shipping. Up to now, Fednav has ordered more than 20 bulk carriers in Japan. Generation four bulk carriers are an optimization of both cargo lift, fuel efficiency, and technology. According to CEO Paul Pathy, Fednav must push on technology and find ways to compete against global bulk carrier operators. Canada based Fednav is a leading lakes-fitted bulk carrier operator in the international trade and in the Canadian Arctic. Fednav manages more than 100 bulk carriers. Out of 100 bulk carriers, Fednav owns 63 of them. Fednav’s focus is on Great Lakes and Atlantic Basin. Montreal based Fednav prefers Japanese-built bulk carriers. According to Fednav, Japan shipbuilders are building the world’s best-quality ships. 2-July-2019
Canadian shipowner and operator Fednav’s handymax dry bulk carrier MV Federal Iris suffers engine explosion off Oregon, Portland. 2016 built handymax dry bulk carrier 63K DWT MV Federal Iris was 120 miles west of the Columbia River entrance after main diesel engine components malfunctioned and caused a localized explosion. None of the 21 crew members injuries has been reported. USCG said in a statement that MV Federal Iris main propulsion system is inoperable. On February 23, USCG’s Marine Safety Unit Portland received notification that MV Federal Iris had experienced a marine diesel engine explosion. MV Federal Iris enacted emergency salvage operations by towing tugs. Panama flagged MV Federal Iris was en route from the Port of Changzhou, China, to pick up cargo in Longview, Washington USA. 2016 built handymax dry bulk carrier 63K DWT MV Federal Iris is owned by Japanese Daiwa Kisen and chartered out Fednav. 26-February-2018
Montreal-based shipowner and operator Fednav’s supramax bulk carrier MV Federal Cardinal has incurred a $6,000 fine from Transport Canada for violating speed restrictions in the Gulf of St. Lawrence. Transport Canada, the federal institution responsible for transportation policies, regulations, and services, has enforced a temporary speed limit in response to an increased number of whales in the area. This specific zone spans from the north shore of Quebec to just north of Prince Edward Island in the western Gulf of St. Lawrence. The speed restrictions are applicable to vessels exceeding 20 meters in length, with a set speed limit of 10 knots. These measures will remain in effect until the whales have migrated away from the designated area, ensuring their safety from marine traffic. 2-January-2018
Montreal-based shipowner and operator Fednav has returned to its preferred Oshima Shipyard to place an order for a series of handysize bulk carriers. The leading Lakes-fitted shipowner and operator has commissioned four 34K DWT lake-fitted bulk carriers, scheduled for delivery in 2018. The cost of these vessels has not been disclosed by Fednav. Oshima Shipyard, recognized globally as one of the premier builders of bulk carriers, is currently scheduling new builds for 2019, indicating that the yard is fully booked for the upcoming years. This ongoing partnership underscores Canadian shipowner and operator Fednav’s confidence in Oshima Shipyard’s capability to deliver high-quality vessels tailored to the specific requirements of lake-fitted operations. 6-March-2016
Montreal-based shipowner and operator Fednav announced last Friday that the MV Nunavik, a bulk carrier under its management, has departed from Deception Bay headed for China via Canada’s Northwest Passage. This voyage marks the MV Nunavik as one of the first commercial vessels to fully transit the Northwest Passage and the first to navigate the route unescorted with an Arctic cargo. The MV Nunavik, recognized as the world’s most powerful conventional icebreaking bulk carrier, operates year-round from Northern Quebec, carrying nickel concentrate from the Canadian Royalties mine. On this voyage, it is transporting 23,000 tons of nickel concentrate to Bayuquan in China. Supporting the MV Nunavik is a shore-based team of ice navigation specialists from Fednav and its subsidiary, Enfotec. The vessel utilizes Enfotec’s proprietary ice-navigation system, IcenavTM, which incorporates regular ice charts and real-time satellite imagery to ensure safe and efficient navigation. Traveling to China via the Northwest Passage is approximately 40 percent shorter than the traditional Panama Canal route. This shorter journey will result in a reduction of more than 1,300 tonnes of greenhouse gas emissions. Fednav, a leader in lakes-fitted shipping, is proud to have designed the MV Nunavik and to orchestrate this pioneering independent commercial voyage through the Northwest Passage. 20-September-2014
Montreal-based shipowner and operator Fednav is expanding its footprint in Asia, focusing on enhancing its log-carrying capabilities. In April 2011, the Canadian bulk carrier operator established an office in Singapore, adding to its existing regional offices in Tokyo and Brisbane. This Singapore office is distinct within Fednav’s network as it operates independently from the main shipping activities controlled by the Montreal headquarters, with a specific mandate to develop Asian-centric business strategies. Traditionally focused on the Atlantic markets, Fednav has capitalized on the opportunities presented by the St. Lawrence Seaway and the Great Lakes to grow into Canada’s largest dry cargo shipowning and chartering group. The company has been in operation for 68 years, but it is now aiming to replicate its Atlantic success in Asia, positioning itself as the industrial carrier of choice in the region. Currently, Fednav manages a fleet of approximately 70 vessels, including owned and long-term chartered ships. This year alone, the company took delivery of 11 new bulk carriers and has an additional 12 ice-class ships scheduled for delivery between 2013 and 2016, which includes one ice-breaking bulk carrier and six Lakes-fitted bulk carriers. Notably, Fednav operates a fleet of six log-fitted bulk carriers from its Singapore office and boasts the largest ice-class bulker fleet globally. In Asia, Fednav is actively pursuing opportunities in the supramax and handysize bulk carrier segments for the logs trade, aiming to carve out a niche in this growing market. 7-December-2012