Chartworld scouting market for newbuild container vessels

In mid-March, Riviera reported the Greek owner had entered advanced discussions with Chinese shipbuilder Hengli Heavy Industry for a series of 4,300-TEU container ships. However, shipbuilding sources have since noted these talks have failed to progress into a binding agreement.

Another yard named in those early talks was Taizhou Sanfu Shipbuilding, though sources familiar with the matter said there have been no updates regarding that potential collaboration.

More recently, several shipbrokers reported Chartworld has opened discussions with New Dayang Shipbuilding for a series of 3,100-TEU vessels. Sources indicate negotiations between the parties have been active in recent weeks, culminating in the signing of a letter of intent (LOI). However, the same sources stressed no firm deal has been concluded as of now. Chartworld has been approached for comment.

What remains clear is that Chartworld is clearly looking to expand its container vessel fleet, following its notable 2021 order with New Times Shipbuilding for 13,000-TEU vessels.

Meanwhile, Charterwell, part of the wider group, has recently taken delivery of two Ultramax bulk carriers – Star Ocean and Star Opal – from New Dayang Shipbuilding. In addition, Chartworld is progressing with a newbuilding programme for two MR tankers at Jiangsu Yangzijiang, with deliveries scheduled for 2026.

Wider newbuilding activity

Chartworld is among a growing number of Greek shipowners exploring newbuilding opportunities in the container vessel segment. Market sources told Riviera there is a clear trend toward fleet renewal, particularly within the 3,000–3,500 TEU size range.

MB Shipbrokers, in its latest weekly report, highlighted continued strong demand across multiple vessel classes, with particular activity in feeder and mid-size tonnage. Shipbrokers note Greek and German owners are particularly well-positioned for ships in this range.

Notably, Latsco and Capital Group have already placed feeder orders in China and South Korea, respectively, earlier this year.