V.Group and Clipper Group are expanding their bulker management operation in a deal with Denmark's Falcon Maritime Group.

The joint venture Dania Ship Management is taking over the operation of two handysizes owned by Falcon subsidiary Falcon Rederi.

The new relationship strengthens the commitment of V.Group, Clipper and Falcon "to create a compelling platform for Copenhagen-based ship management solutions," the companies said.

Falcon gains access to V.Group’s global marine services and Dania’s shipmanagement expertise, they added.

Mikkjal Poulsen, managing director of Dania Ship Management Bulk, said: "This new relationship with Falcon Maritime Group will strengthen our capabilities in dry cargo management, as we continue our growth journey.

"This will help us to continue delivering flawless service whilst ensuring we navigate these challenging times with strong, well-established partners."

Falcon Rederi has three handysizes built in 2011 and 2015. The Falcon group's website lists 21 ships under management in total.

Future growth

Bo Knold Kristensen, managing director of the group, sees the move as providing a solid platform for future growth.

The deal also allows the company to bring technical management closer to its commercial activities here in Copenhagen.

"We anticipate this partnership will benefit our clients as well as the organisation and employees – both on shore and at sea. With both companies having a strong commitment to safety, efficiency and quality, I am confident of a successful synergy," he said.

Last December, V.Group has took over full control of Dania Ship Management from its partner MOL Nordic Tankers.

The UK-based shipmanager acquired the 60% stake it did not already own in the venture.

Move into bulkers

Dania was established in 2017 to provide specialised ship management for tankers.

But later that year the company teamed with Denmark's Clipper Fleet Management to manage bulkers.

Clipper chief executive Amrit Peter Kalsi said: "Working with global partners brings benefits such as giving you access to a much bigger network of people, data, and influence.

"With the newly formed partnership, we look forward to further harnessing the depth and scale of services and expertise to maximise the efficiency of our operations."

V.Group last week announced a new deal with Costamare to manage 41 vessels and take over the Greek boxship owner's management company in China.

The agreement was described as a strengthening and expansion of their existing strategic partnership.

As part of the move, Shanghai Costamare Ship Management will be integrated into V Group's office in Shanghai.