Carlova Maritime Orders Two 114,000 DWT Aframax Tankers at Imabari Shipbuilding
Carlova Maritime, a prominent Greek shipowner under the leadership of Anthony Inglessis, has recently made a significant addition to its project portfolio by placing newbuilding orders. This move is set to bolster the company’s orderbook and further solidify its presence in the maritime industry.
New Orders from Imabari Shipbuilding
According to fleet data, Carlova Maritime has commissioned two 114,000 DWT Aframax tankers from Japan’s renowned shipbuilder, Imabari Shipbuilding. The delivery of these vessels is scheduled for the fourth quarter of 2029 and the first quarter of 2030, marking a strategic milestone for the company. This contract with Imabari Shipbuilding signifies Carlova Maritime’s first newbuilding agreement in Japan since its separation from Greece’s Samos Steamship. However, the exact contract price for these tankers has not been disclosed.
Expansion Strategy and Diversification
Sources within the Japanese shipbuilding industry have revealed that Imabari Shipbuilding intends to subcontract a portion of the construction work for the two Aframax tankers to other shipyards in Japan. This collaborative approach highlights the company’s commitment to efficient project execution and maintaining high-quality standards.
Carlova Maritime’s decision to diversify its newbuilding orders across different shipyards in China and South Korea comes at a time when several Japanese shipyards are exiting the commercial shipbuilding sector. This strategic move not only ensures a broader geographical spread of construction projects but also mitigates potential risks associated with over-reliance on a single market.
Continued Focus on Japanese-built Vessels
For the Inglessis family’s shipping business, the order for Aframax tankers represents a return to familiar territory. Carlova Maritime’s existing operating fleet predominantly consists of Japanese-built vessels, including the Aframax tankers “Phaedr” and “Penelope,” both constructed by Sumitomo Heavy Industries. Despite this strong Japanese connection, the company’s proactive approach to diversifying its newbuilding orders reflects a forward-looking strategy to adapt to evolving market dynamics.
As of now, Carlova Maritime’s official website lists a total of six newbuild vessels in its pipeline, with a mix of VLCCs, bulk carriers, and additional Aframax tankers scheduled for delivery in the coming years. This concerted effort to expand and modernize its fleet underscores Carlova Maritime’s commitment to maintaining a competitive edge in the global shipping industry.
