Tsakos returns to container ship newbuilding market after four years

Greek shipping group Tsakos has returned to the containership newbuilding market after a four-year hiatus, ordering two 3,200 teu vessels from China’s Hengli Heavy Industries. According to TradeWinds, the twin boxship order was placed in September, with delivery scheduled for the fourth quarter of 2028.

Newbuild details and specifications

The two newbuilds are scrubber-fitted and equipped with alternative maritime power systems that allow them to connect to shore-side electricity when alongside. Alphaliner estimates their cost at around $48 million each, totalling approximately $96 million for both vessels. Neither Tsakos nor Hengli have disclosed the final pricing details.

Historical context and relationship with Hengli Heavy Industries

Tsakos’ latest order marks its first return to container ship contracting since 2022, when it booked a series of approximately 2,800 teu vessels at HD Hyundai Mipo in South Korea. Six of these so-called Chittagongmax ships entered the fleet between 2023 and 2024. Tsakos currently operates a total of ten containerships, comprising six modern Hyundai Mipo units and four older vessels ranging from about 2,800 to 4,600 teu.

The relationship with Hengli Heavy Industries extends beyond containerships; in June, Splash 247 reported that Tsakos had also emerged behind two 181,500 dwt capesize newbuildings at the Chinese yard. These ships are scheduled for delivery by 2028 and were valued around $96 million each.

Market implications and future outlook

The order aligns with Tsakos’ focus on the feeder segment of the container market, where smaller vessels operate in dense trade routes. According to industry experts, the return to newbuildings suggests a positive outlook for the group’s near-term business strategy.

"Tsakos' decision to enter the containership market again reflects their ongoing commitment to growing their fleet and diversifying their operations," said an analyst at Alphaliner. "The addition of modern, efficient vessels should help Tsakos maintain its competitive edge in the dynamic container shipping industry."

What this means for operators

The order from Tsakos signifies a potential shift back towards newbuildings within the containership market. Other operators may follow suit, especially if they see positive returns on investment and favorable charter markets.

The adoption of scrubbers and alternative power systems in the newbuilds also indicates a trend towards environmental compliance and cost-saving measures among shipping companies. As regulations tighten globally, more operators are likely to follow Tsakos' lead in integrating advanced technologies into their vessels.

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