Doun Kisen bulks up with four newbuilds in China
Doun Kisen Strengthens Fleet with New Bulk Carrier Orders
Doun Kisen’s Fleet Expansion Plans
Doun Kisen, a leading Japanese shipowner, is taking big steps to expand its fleet. The company has placed orders for four new bulk carrier ships at Nantong Xiangyu Shipbuilding & Offshore Engineering in China. These new ships include two Kamsarmax vessels and two Ultramax vessels. This decision highlights Doun Kisen’s focus on growing and improving its operations in the bulk shipping market.
Details About the New Ships
The Kamsarmax vessels will have a carrying capacity of 82,000 tons (known as deadweight tonnage or dwt), while the Ultramax vessels will have a capacity of 63,500 dwt. Each Kamsarmax ship costs about $37.3 million, and each Ultramax ship costs around $35.3 million. These ships are expected to be ready by 2027, giving a boost to Doun Kisen’s fleet at a critical time.
Doun Kisen has worked with this shipyard before. Last year, the company ordered similar ships from Nantong Xiangyu, which will be delivered in 2025 and 2026. This ongoing relationship shows that Doun Kisen trusts the quality of work at this shipyard. Currently, Doun Kisen operates about 140 ships, with an average fleet age of just six years. This demonstrates the company’s commitment to maintaining a modern and efficient fleet.
Why This Expansion Matters
The bulk shipping market is growing as global trade increases. Bulk carriers transport goods like coal, grain, and minerals, which are in high demand. By adding new ships, Doun Kisen is positioning itself to meet this rising demand. The new ships, Kamsarmax and Ultramax, are popular choices in the shipping industry because of their versatility.
Kamsarmax Ships
- Designed to fit through the Panama Canal.
- Suitable for various trade routes around the world.
Ultramax Ships
- Can carry flexible cargo loads.
- Access ports that larger ships cannot, offering more options for transportation.
This variety allows Doun Kisen to serve different customers and adapt to market needs.
Focus on Sustainability
The shipping industry is also working hard to reduce its environmental impact. By ordering new ships, Doun Kisen is likely to include advanced technology to make them more fuel-efficient and eco-friendly. This move aligns with stricter global rules on reducing emissions. Having modern, energy-efficient ships will help Doun Kisen stay competitive as the industry shifts toward greener practices.
A Future-Ready Strategy
Doun Kisen’s new orders are a clear sign of its forward-thinking approach. The company is preparing for future challenges while ensuring it can take advantage of new opportunities in the bulk shipping sector. With a younger, more efficient fleet, Doun Kisen is set to remain a strong player in the global shipping market.
