Safe Bulkers Expands Fleet with New Kamsarmax Orders
Greek dry bulk shipping company Safe Bulkers has made a significant move in the newbuilding market by agreeing to acquire two kamsarmax vessels from Chinese shipyards. The New York-listed firm announced that these 82,500 deadweight tonnage (dwt) ships are scheduled for delivery in the third quarter of 2028 and the first quarter of 2029. While the pricing details for the vessels remain undisclosed, this acquisition marks a strategic step in the company’s ongoing fleet modernization efforts.
The new kamsarmaxes will be designed to meet the International Maritime Organization’s (IMO) Energy Efficiency Design Index (EEDI) Phase 3 requirements, ensuring compliance with the latest NOx Tier III emissions standards. Safe Bulkers highlighted that these ships will be sister vessels to others already in operation within its fleet, featuring enhanced fuel efficiency and reduced consumption rates. This focus on sustainability aligns with the industry’s growing emphasis on environmental responsibility.
Strategic Fleet Modernization and Expansion
This order comes on the heels of a fleet reshaping initiative by Safe Bulkers, which included the sale of two kamsarmax vessels last year. Prior to this latest deal, the company had placed its most recent newbuilding orders in 2024. With the addition of these two new vessels, Safe Bulkers’ orderbook now totals eight vessels, which also includes two methanol dual-fuel ships scheduled for delivery between 2026 and 2029.
As of September 2025, Safe Bulkers operates a diverse fleet of 45 dry bulk vessels, which includes panamax, kamsarmax, post-panamax, and capesize units. The average age of the fleet is just over 10 years, reflecting the company’s commitment to maintaining a modern and efficient operation. President Loukas Barmparis emphasized that the newbuilds align with the company’s renewal strategy, aimed at enhancing competitiveness and resilience in the market. This strategy is crucial as the shipping industry faces increasing regulatory pressures and demands for greener technologies.
Safe Bulkers posts $1.7m profit in Q2 despite weaker rates and higher costs
In addition to the new orders, Safe Bulkers has already taken delivery of 12 bulk carriers that comply with IMO GHG Phase 3 and NOx Tier III standards. This proactive approach to fleet modernization positions the company as a leader in the dry bulk sector, ensuring it remains competitive while contributing to environmental sustainability.
