Marinakis’ Capital said to expand box ship orderbook with new quartet

HD Hyundai Samho disclosed on 19 December an order for four container vessels valued at approximately US$466M for an undisclosed Oceania-based shipowner. Shipbroking sources have identified Capital as the buyer of the quartet, which is scheduled for delivery through November 2028.

While the shipbuilder did not disclose the vessels’ size, brokers suggest that, based on the reported contract value, the ships are likely in the 8,000-9,000 TEU range.

Capital is already a major client of HD Hyundai. In addition to the latest reported order, the owner has been linked to contracts for six vessels exceeding 8,000 TEU and 19 smaller units of 2,800 TEU and 1,800 TEU, all placed with the South Korean shipbuilder.

The prominent Greek shipowner has focused primarily on South Korean yards this year. Beyond container ships, Capital has also ordered LNG carriers at HD Hyundai and VLCCs at Hanwha Ocean.

Meanwhile, Riviera reported last month that Capital is forming a joint venture focused on LNG bunker vessels with French liner giant CMA CGM and energy major TotalEnergies, with the partners seeking newbuilding slots in China.

In its most recent investment move, Capital has also been in discussions with Hayfin Capital Management regarding the acquisition of a pair of Suezmax resale tankers.

Mass contracting

According to Veson Nautical’s year-end report, container ship contracting rose by 42% year-on-year, with approximately 600 vessels ordered in 2025 compared with 413 in 2024.

Chinese shipyards continued to dominate the market, securing orders for 468 vessels – around a 78% share – supported by competitive pricing and delivery schedules. South Korean builders ranked second, with 115 ships accounting for roughly a 19% share, Veson Nautical data shows.