en.Wedoany.com Reported - Despite entering the traditionally quieter summer season, the container charter market has gained new momentum, with strong freight rates and continuously improving liner profitability continuing to support demand for tonnage.
According to the latest market analysis from Braemar, chartering activity remains healthy, with operators returning to the market to seek contract extensions and forward fixtures. This is driven by a freight market that has significantly strengthened since the first quarter, with global container freight rates continuing an upward trend this week.
Braemar explained that the strong performance of the freight market compared to the first quarter has naturally boosted liner profitability, making chartering decisions much easier than a few months ago. The industry consultancy added that not only has the improvement in freight earnings accelerated internal decision-making for carriers seeking additional capacity, but port congestion is also persistently tightening effective vessel supply. As a result, demand for forward charters is increasingly evident, especially in the large vessel segment, where available 2026 tonnage is already scarce.
Braemar highlighted that market reports indicate Maersk has chartered two 14,000 TEU newbuilds from TS Lines for a three-year period at a daily rate of approximately $80,000, with delivery in the second quarter of 2027. The Danish carrier prefers chartering over ordering a large number of newbuilds to increase capacity. The broker stated that similar discussions are underway in the Panamax market and warned that much of the available 2027 tonnage could soon disappear as operators seek to secure future coverage.
The sub-Panamax market also remains tight, with spot vessels typically being chartered out almost immediately for periods of around two years. Demand for feeder vessels remains firm, although activity in the smallest size segments is quieter. Braemar said that growing demand, rising charter rates, and improved liner profits have once again pushed up asset prices, with further increases expected over the summer.
It is understood that MSC has agreed to acquire the 4,253 TEU vessels "Sunny Phoenix" and "Felixstowe" for approximately $27 million each, whereas just a few months ago these ships were reportedly changing hands for around $17 million to $19 million, fully demonstrating the magnitude of market shifts. Meanwhile, after intense competition, the 1,096 TEU vessel "A Goryu" has been sold to a Chinese buyer for $26.5 million. The consultancy added that with liner companies busy revising up their profit expectations for the year, the party does not appear to be ending anytime soon.
