Schoeller Holdings Orders New Containerships from China
Schoeller Holdings has made a significant move in the shipping industry by placing an order for two 1,900 TEU containerships at Huangpu Wenchong Shipbuilding in China. The Cyprus-based company is investing between $31 million and $32 million for each vessel, with expected deliveries slated for 2028. This deal marks a continuation of Schoeller’s long-standing partnership with the Guangzhou-based shipyard, which has successfully delivered nearly 30 vessels to the owner over the past two decades.
Strengthening Partnerships and Market Trends
The relationship between Schoeller Holdings and Huangpu Wenchong Shipbuilding has flourished over the years, encompassing a diverse range of ship types. This includes various series of boxships, heavylift units, and offshore vessels, such as Construction Service Operation Vessels (CSOVs). The recent order reflects a growing interest in smaller feeder containerships, as shipping companies seek to diversify their fleets amid changing market dynamics.
In addition to Schoeller’s order, other players in the shipping sector are also making moves to expand their operations in the containership market. For instance, Minerva Marine has secured a deal for up to eight 1,800 TEU vessels at Yangzijiang and Huanghai shipyards. This agreement is structured as a two-plus-two arrangement at each yard, with prices ranging from $32 million to $33 million per vessel. Similarly, Greek dry bulk owner W Marine has signed a letter of intent with Huanghai for up to four new 1,800 TEU newbuilds, with pricing also in the low $30 million range and deliveries expected in 2028.
The increasing demand for smaller feeder vessels indicates a shift in the shipping industry, as companies adapt to evolving market needs and seek to enhance their operational capabilities. As Schoeller Holdings and other firms invest in newbuilds, the landscape of the containership sector is poised for further transformation in the coming years.
