JR Shipping poised for dry bulk return with newbuild brace
JR Shipping Reenters Shortsea Cargo with Newbuilds
Dutch company JR Shipping is making a significant move to reestablish its presence in the shortsea dry cargo sector. The Harlingen-based firm has announced plans to construct two diesel-electric vessels at Chowgule Shipbuilding in India, with deliveries expected by mid-2027 and early 2028. This initiative is part of a larger order comprising eight ships, reflecting the company’s commitment to sustainable shipping practices and future maritime logistics needs.
Strategic Investment in Sustainable Shipping
The upcoming vessels will each have a deadweight tonnage of 8,500 and feature advanced diesel-electric propulsion systems, developed in collaboration with Dutch designer Conoship. These innovative ships are designed to be energy-efficient, requiring 50% to 60% less propulsion energy compared to current vessels in service. They are also prepared for integration with wind-assisted propulsion, carbon capture technologies, and emission-free operations using battery power.
JR Shipping’s return to the dry cargo market comes after a hiatus that began in 2019 when the company sold its last 5,000 dwt vessel. Despite this pause, JR Shipping has maintained its ambition to re-enter the sector, leveraging its extensive knowledge and experience in dry cargo shipping. The company emphasizes that this strategic decision aligns with its vision of becoming a comprehensive and progressive shipping group.
In addition to these newbuilds, JR Shipping is collaborating with Boomsma Shipping and Germany’s Leonhardt & Blumberg Shipmanagement, who placed the order for the eight vessels late last year. JR Shipbrokers & Consultants, a part of the JR Shipping Group, played a pivotal role as the matchmaker and broker for this significant deal. The initiative not only marks a new chapter for JR Shipping but also underscores a broader trend in the maritime industry towards sustainability and innovation.
