Greece’s Chandris Group is said to be returning to China for a fresh round of bulker newbuildings.
Athens-based brokers are linking Century Bulk Carriers — Chandris’ bulker management outfit — to an order for a pair of ultramaxes at Cosco Zhoushan Shipyard.
According to the reports, the yard is to deliver the two 63,000-dwt units in 2025. No details are available on price or specifications.
It is also not known if this is a letter of intent or a final contract.
Managers at the Athens-based company did not respond to a request for comment.
One clue suggesting that the information may be accurate is that it was a Cosco yard at which Chandris last placed bulker newbuildings.
Cosco Dalian Shipyard delivered the 81,000-dwt kamsarmax Myrto (built 2017) six years ago. It is still in Century Bulk Carriers’ fleet.
Chandris set up Century Bulk Carriers in August 2018 as a separate entity to manage its dry bulk fleet.
The company lists 13 bulkers on its website, from supramax to capesize. However, two of them may be on the way out.
Several brokers in Athens, London and the US reported in late February about Chandris selling the 81,300-dwt Dona Tara (built 2011) to Greek peers at a price between $20.5m and $21.1m.
These reports were complemented by others this month that Chandris is divesting the 57,200-dwt Serene Jessica (built 2011) as well, for $14.9m.
These two ships are by no means the oldest in Century Bulk Carriers’ fleet. They are the 73,600-dwt Marietta (built 2004) and 76,600-dwt Marinicki (built 2005).
Very low-profile Chandris is one of the most traditional names in Greek shipping. Founded in 1911, it also controls several hotels and resorts in Greece.
