Thenamaris eyes MR tanker order in fleet expansion push

European shipbrokers reported this week that the Greek shipping major had placed an order with HD Hyundai for four MR2 tankers, scheduled for delivery through 2028.

However, shipbroking and market sources indicated that while Thenamaris has indeed been negotiating with the South Korean shipbuilding group over an MR tanker project, details regarding the number of vessels involved and whether the contract has been finalised remain unclear.

According to information available on the company’s website, Thenamaris currently operates a fleet of 12 MR2 tankers, including two vessels that are 19 years old. Last year, the company took delivery of two MR2 newbuildings from China’s Jiangsu New Yangzi shipyard.

The Greek owner has maintained an active presence in the newbuilding market in recent months. Earlier this year, Thenamaris entered the very large ammonia carrier (VLAC) segment with an order for two vessels at CSSC’s Jiangnan Shipyard. In late 2025, the company also contracted CSSC for a pair of Suezmax tankers.

Overall, Thenamaris operates a fleet comprising 52 tankers, 24 bulk carriers, seven LNG carriers, six LPG carriers and two container vessels, excluding four vessels currently under construction.

The MR2 tanker newbuilding segment has attracted considerable interest this year. Among notable recent deals, Hayfin Capital Management ordered four vessels at HD Hyundai, while Hafnia contracted the same shipyard for eight MR2 tankers.

According to Xclusiv Shipbrokers, a total of 44 MR2 tankers had been ordered by the end of April this year, with the orderbook-to-fleet ratio approaching 16%.

European brokers currently estimate the price of an MR tanker newbuilding in South Korea at approximately US$50M-52M.