Alpha Bulkers to Order Two Newcastlemax Bulk Carriers from Hengli Heavy
Greek shipping company, Alpha Bulkers, owned by Anna Angelicoussis, is set to increase its order book for large bulk carriers. Shipbrokers and market sources have disclosed that Alpha Bulkers is looking to order two Newcastlemax bulk carriers from Hengli Heavy Industry. The exact delivery dates and construction prices for these vessels have not been revealed.
Strengthening Collaboration with Hengli Heavy Industry
If this order is finalized, it will mark another significant partnership between Alpha Bulkers and Hengli Heavy Industries in the newbuild market in 2026. Earlier this year, reports indicated that Hengli Heavy Industries had already secured an order from Alpha Bulkers for two Capesize bulk carriers with competitive delivery schedules.
Growth in the Large Bulk Carrier Segment
Large bulk carriers have been a focal point in the newbuilding market in 2026. Data from shipbroker Xclusiv Shipbrokers shows that by the end of August 2026, global shipowners had placed orders for a total of 105 Capesize/Very Large Ore Carriers (VLOCs), ranking second only to orders for Supramax/Ultramax bulk carriers.
The ordering ratio of large bulk carriers relative to the fleet size has climbed to over 18%, with the average age of the existing fleet standing at around 12.5 years. Alpha Bulkers, known for its dry bulk shipping specialization, currently operates a fleet of 33 vessels with a total carrying capacity of 4,546,945 gross tons and an average vessel age of 9 years.
The fleet includes a variety of vessel types, such as Newcastle bulk carriers, Capesize bulk carriers, Kamsarmax bulk carriers, Ultramax bulk carriers, and Supramax bulk carriers, showcasing the company’s diverse portfolio in the shipping industry.
Diversification into Container Ship Market
In a surprising move last year, Alpha Bulkers ventured into the container ship market and signed shipbuilding contracts with three Chinese shipbuilders. The company announced 11 new container ship orders, ranging in sizes from 1,900 TEU to 4,500 TEU, all powered by conventional fuel.
These vessels are being constructed by Yangzijiang Shipbuilding, Guangdong COSCO Shipping Heavy Industry, and CIMC Raffles, further expanding Alpha Bulkers’ presence in the maritime sector. The strategic expansion into the container ship market aligns with the company’s vision for growth and diversification within the shipping industry.
