Chartworld eyes up to 12 newbuild container vessels in fleet expansion

Shipbroking and market sources indicate that the prominent Greek shipowner has placed an order with China’s New Dayang Shipbuilding for two firm plus two optional 3,100-TEU container ships, with deliveries set to begin in late 2027. The owner is already familiar with the yard, having recently taken delivery of bulk carriers built there.

Riviera first reported in July that Chartworld had entered discussions with New Dayang after negotiations with other Chinese yards, including Hengli Heavy Industry and Taizhou Sanfu Shipbuilding, failed to advance.

But the company’s ambitions extend further. Brokers highlight that Chartworld has also signed a letter of intent (LoI) with the recently revived Yangzhou Guoyu Shipbuilding for the construction of up to eight 3,100-TEU boxships.

The declaration of options at both shipyards will depend on securing charter employment for the vessels.

Market sources note that, since returning to business, Yangzhou Guoyu’s orderbook has been dominated by domestic Chinese owners. The yard, which filed for bankruptcy in 2021, was reorganised under new ownership and management three years later.

Return to newbuildings

Chartworld’s latest moves mark a renewed push into container tonnage, following its notable 2021 order at New Times Shipbuilding for 13,000-TEU units.

Elsewhere, Charterwell, part of the wider group, has recently taken delivery of two Ultramax bulk carriers – Star Ocean and Star Opal – from New Dayang. At the same time, Chartworld is progressing with a newbuilding programme for two MR tankers at Jiangsu Yangzijiang, scheduled for delivery in 2026.

According to shipping databases, Chartworld’s current fleet comprises more than 50 vessels, spanning bulk carriers, tankers, container ships, and reefers.