Efnav Expands Fleet with Six New Bulk Carriers
Greek shipping company Efnav is making significant strides in the dry bulk sector by ordering six kamsarmax bulk carriers from Hengli Heavy Industries. This marks Efnav’s inaugural partnership with the rapidly expanding Chinese shipyard. The contract, signed in Dalian, is valued between $216 million and $228 million, with deliveries expected in the latter half of 2026.
Details of the New Order
The six new vessels, each with a deadweight tonnage of 82,000, will be constructed according to Hengli’s innovative eco design. This design incorporates advanced energy-efficient systems that comply with the International Maritime Organization’s (IMO) stringent emissions standards. The ships will meet the EEDI Phase 3 requirements, which focus on enhancing fuel efficiency and minimizing carbon emissions. Hengli Heavy Industries emphasizes that these vessels are “green, energy-saving, and safe,” reflecting the industry’s shift towards sustainability.
This order is a significant development for Hengli Heavy Industries, which has been rapidly expanding its newbuilding portfolio. The yard has recently secured contracts for various types of vessels, including very large crude carriers (VLCCs) and other bulkers, showcasing its growing influence in the maritime industry. For Efnav, this order signifies a return to the newbuilding market after several years of inactivity. The Athens-based company, which currently operates around 15 bulk carriers of a similar size, last placed newbuilding orders in 2018 and 2019 with Nantong COSCO KHI Ship Engineering.
Recent Trends in Bulk Carrier Contracts
Efnav’s deal with Hengli follows a trend of increasing orders from Greek shipowners for bulk carriers. Earlier this month, Eastern Mediterranean Maritime, led by Thanasis Martinos, ordered four kamsarmaxes from the same yard. Additionally, Seanergy, a capesize specialist headed by Stamatis Tsantanis, has secured a contract for one 181,000 dwt unit, with options for an additional vessel. This surge in orders highlights the growing confidence among Greek owners in the bulk carrier market, as they seek to modernize their fleets and meet evolving environmental regulations.
