Greek Shipowners Strengthen Ties with China’s Hengli Heavy Industries
Two prominent Greek shipowners, Eastmed and Seanergy Maritime, are deepening their cooperation with Chinese shipyards. Hengli Heavy Industries continues to expand its growing orderbook with European tonnage. According to Splash 247, the Dalian-based yard has secured contracts worth approximately $211 million for five new bulk carriers from the two companies.
For Seanergy Maritime, the deal marks a turning point. The US-listed capesize specialist has signed its first-ever newbuilding contract, ordering a 181,000 dwt vessel at Hengli. The move is part of a broader fleet renewal strategy, following the sale of several older capes built between 2009 and 2011. With the addition, Seanergy’s fleet now totals 20 vessels, including 18 capesizes and two newcastlemaxes, with an average age of around 14 years.
Meanwhile, Eastern Mediterranean Maritime (Eastmed), has expanded its footprint in the bulk segment by ordering four kamsarmax bulkers at Hengli. This comes after Eastmed’s re-entry into the bulker newbuild market in late 2023, when it ordered four ultramaxes from Nantong Xiangyu Shipyard.
For Hengli, these deals underscore its fast-growing status among China’s most active private shipyards. Since September, the yard has logged over 30 newbuild orders spanning bulkers, tankers, and container ships. More than 70 vessels currently under construction and deliveries scheduled through 2029.
Minoa Marine recently joined the trend, confirming an 82,000 dwt kamsarmax order at Japan’s Oshima Shipbuilding. The vessel is set for delivery in early 2028, further indicating that fleet renewal and energy-efficient newbuilds remain at the forefront of the global shipping industry’s priorities.
