Danaos strengthens large orderbook with two additional mid-size container vessels

Shipbroking and market sources have linked the prominent Greek owner to a firm order for two 5,300-TEU container ships at CSSC’s Guangzhou Wenchong Shipyard (GWS), with options for additional units understood to be attached.

Danaos and CSSC have maintained a close working relationship in recent years, joining forces on several shipbuilding projects.

This latest move marks a return to vessel sizes more aligned with Danaos’ traditional ordering profile, following last November’s announcement of six 1,800-TEU feeders. Until that smaller-vessel order, the US-listed company had focused predominantly on mid-size and larger tonnage in the 6,000-9,200 TEU range.

The company has consistently highlighted its strategic preference for vessels in this segment, noting their importance in serving emerging markets across Asia, Africa, Oceania and Latin America. 

According to Danaos, such ships remain attractive to both major charterers – who deploy them on secondary trade routes – and smaller operators for whom this tonnage represents core capacity in niche primary markets.

Expanding orderbook

According to Danaos’ latest Q3 earnings release, the company currently controls an orderbook of 23 vessels totalling 153,350 TEU, most of which are already placed on long-term charters. Deliveries are scheduled to commence this year and continue through 2029. 

All newbuildings are designed with the latest eco-efficiency features and will comply with the most recent International Maritime Organization (IMO) requirements.

Alongside its newbuilding commitments, Danaos operates a fleet of 75 container vessels amounting to 477,491 TEU. The company also maintains a presence in the dry bulk sector, with a fleet of 11 Capesize vessels.

Danaos’ contracted cash operating revenues stood at US$4.1Bn as of November, inclusive of newbuildings. The company’s container fleet had a remaining average contracted charter duration of 4.3 years, weighted by aggregate contracted hire.

Greek shipowners appear to have entered 2026 with the same strong ordering appetite that characterised 2025. In addition to Danaos’ latest move, Costamare is reportedly in discussions with CSSC regarding a potential series of 9,200-TEU vessels.