Oceangold Tankers emerges with six MR2 newbuildings in China

The Greek shipping company’s website reveals plans to take delivery of six 49,200-dwt MR2 tankers between October 2025 and November 2026. Industry sources had noted in 2023 that Oceangold signed a letter of intent with Penglai for MR newbuildings, which appears to have progressed to a finalised agreement.

Oceangold’s focus on MR2 tankers aligns with a broader trend within the Greek shipping community. According to Xclusiv Shipbrokers, MR2 tankers, along with Suezmax vessels, topped the list of Greek tanker newbuilding preferences in 2024, each accounting for 26 orders. MR2s also hold a 17% share of the Greek tanker orderbook, ranking third behind Aframax and Suezmax vessels.

Significant investments

In addition to the six MR2 tankers, Oceangold has three Aframax/LR2 vessels on order, scheduled for delivery through January 2026 from China’s Shanghai Waigaoqiao Shipbuilding. All nine newbuildings will feature advanced technologies, including methanol-ready capabilities.

Currently, Oceangold’s operational fleet comprises 11 vessels: eight MR2 tankers and three Aframax/LR2 tankers. Beyond Oceangold, the Dragnis family also manages Goldenport Shipmanagement, a dry bulk specialist with a fleet of 32 vessels, primarily medium-sized bulk carriers and some container ships, according to vessel data platform Equasis.

Expanding into offshore sector

John Dragnis made headlines in 2024 with his entry into the offshore vessel sector through a major acquisition. MAG Offshore, supported by Mr Dragnis, acquired 20 offshore support vessels from Singapore-listed Atlantic Navigation. The move was made in partnership with EnTrust Global, Maas Capital and Allianz Marine Services.

Mr Dragnis highlighted the strategic nature of the investment, “The investment reflects our conviction that the energy transition will take place at a more realistic pace and the offshore oil and gas sector will continue to play a key role in the future.”

MAG Offshore’s fleet comprises liftboats, platform supply vessels, and anchor-handling tug supply vessels, primarily operating in the Middle East, southeast Asia and Africa. This focus sets it apart from the traditional target markets of other Greek owners entering the offshore vessel sector.