Thenamaris joins crude tanker investment wave with Suezmax order in China

Shipbroking and market sources link the prominent Greek owner to an order for two Suezmax tankers at a CSSC-affiliated shipyard. Thenamaris maintains a policy of not commenting on commercial matters.

No pricing details have yet emerged regarding the reported deal. According to Greek shipbrokers, the construction cost of a Suezmax tanker currently stands at around US$85–86M.

Thenamaris appears to be the latest among Greek owners seeking slots for crude tanker newbuildings. Riviera recently reported that Laskaridis Maritime and Dynacom Tankers have placed VLCC orders at Hengli Shipbuilding, while TMS Tankers has also opened discussions for a potential series.

In the Suezmax segment, Dynacom, Evalend Shipping, New Shipping and Centrofin have all been active this year, with recent reported deals including Golden Energy and Atlas Maritime.

European shipbrokers note the crude tanker sector remains at the forefront of owners’ newbuilding focus, supported by strong freight fundamentals and an ageing global fleet driving continued interest.

Thenamaris’ growth strategy

For Thenamaris, the order would mark a return to the newbuilding market following the completion of its extensive programme across Chinese and South Korean yards for both bulk carriers and tankers.

The owner has been actively reshaping its fleet by selling older assets and replacing them with newbuildings or modern secondhand tonnage. Riviera recently reported that Thenamaris re-entered the dry bulk secondhand market with the acquisition of a modern Kamsarmax vessel.

According to the company’s website, Thenamaris currently controls 91 vessels, comprising 51 tankers, 24 bulk carriers, eight LNG carriers, six LPG carriers and two container vessels.