Greek owner expands its Japanese newbuilding programme as it targets long-term demand for modern dry bulk tonnage

Greek dry bulk shipowner DryDel Shipping has signed contracts with Tsuneishi Shipbuilding for two 82,000 dwt Kamsarmax bulk carriers, extending a fleet investment programme that spans the major dry bulk vessel segments.

The company announced the order on September 28, 2026. Contract prices and specific delivery dates have not been disclosed. The vessels will meet NOx Tier III and EEDI Phase 3 requirements and incorporate energy-efficiency technologies designed to reduce fuel consumption and emissions.

The order reflects DryDel’s assessment that modern, efficient Japanese-built Kamsarmax vessels will attract sustained demand, while relatively few shipyards are willing to build ships of this size. The company sees that combination as an opportunity to secure tonnage for its future fleet.

Chief executive Costas Delaportas described the investment as an important step in expanding DryDel’s presence in the 82,000 dwt segment. He said the company expected demand for this vessel size to grow in the coming years, against a backdrop of limited high-quality newbuilding capacity.

“Our strategy remains consistent: not simply to grow the fleet, but to invest selectively in ships and segments where we see long-term value,” DryDel said in its announcement.

The two Tsuneishi contracts follow an earlier commitment to the same vessel segment. In May 2026, DryDel ordered an 82,000 dwt Kamsarmax at Shin Kurushima Dockyard for delivery in 2028. That ship formed part of a three-vessel order programme that also included Ultramax newbuildings at Nihon Shipyard and Oshima Shipyard.

DryDel also has an established relationship with Tsuneishi. In July 2024, it was reported to have ordered a 66,000 dwt TESS66 Aeroline Ultramax from the shipbuilder, with delivery scheduled for 2028. The latest deal extends that cooperation as the owner adds further Kamsarmax capacity.

Since 2021, DryDel has placed more than 25 newbuilding orders with Japanese shipyards, according to its latest announcement. Its investment programme covers vessel sizes from Handysize to Capesize, reflecting the company’s aim of building a diversified, modern and efficient dry bulk fleet.

The owner expects to take delivery of 13 newbuildings through 2029. Those deliveries form part of its broader fleet renewal and expansion programme across several dry bulk segments.

Delaportas said DryDel was looking beyond current market conditions when selecting vessels for its future fleet. The two Kamsarmax newbuildings, he added, fit the company’s approach of investing in ships it believes will be well positioned for the years ahead.

“We invest not only for the market we see today, but for the market we expect tomorrow,” the company said.