Prokopiou’s Dynacom linked to new six-tanker order in China

According to shipbroking and market sources, the prominent Greek shipowner has placed an order for six firm 155,000-dwt Suezmax tankers at New Times Shipbuilding (NTS), with deliveries scheduled for 2028. The new vessels will reportedly be fitted with scrubbers.

Dynacom Tankers has not yet commented on the reported transaction.

NTS has become one of George Prokopiou’s preferred shipyards, as he continues to drive an aggressive newbuilding campaign in the tanker sector. Shipping databases list 12 Suezmax tankers currently under construction for Dynacom at the same yard.

Riviera highlighted in early February Mr Prokopiou’s position at the forefront of Greece’s fast-growing orderbook, which now exceeds 600 vessels. Alongside Dynacom’s expansion, Sea Traders is pursuing a significant newbuilding strategy in the bulk carrier sector, while Dynagas remains active in the LNG carrier segment.

In addition to its newbuilding programme, Dynacom has also been pursuing opportunities in the secondhand market. According to Equasis, the company has acquired three 2009-built Suezmaxes this year, previously owned by Teekay Tankers.

Based on information from its website, Dynacom Tankers currently manages a fleet of 67 tankers, with an additional 53 vessels under construction.

A Greek return to Chinese shipyards?

Dynacom’s latest reported order stands out as one of the few Greek tanker deals with Chinese yards this year, amid a wider move to South Korean shipbuilders driven by the US port fee plan.

However, the evolving details of the fee scheme – now perceived as less disruptive than initially feared – appear to be gradually reshaping market sentiment.

One notable example is Polembros Shipping, another traditional Greek owner, which recently secured LR2 tanker resales at Zhoushan Changhong with an appealing delivery timeline, further signalling renewed Greek interest in Chinese yards.