Alpha Bulkers Signs for 11 Containerships in China

Wedoany.com Report-Dec.4,  Alpha Bulkers, a well-established Greek dry-bulk operator focused on supramax-to-capesize vessels, has entered the container shipping sector with a major newbuilding programme consisting of 11 vessels.

According to Alphaliner, the company has contracted conventionally fuelled containerships in three standard sizes that are widely favoured in the charter market for their operational flexibility: three 1,900 teu units, four 3,100 teu units, and four 4,500 teu units.

The three 1,900 teu sister ships are expected to be constructed by Yangzijiang Shipbuilding, most likely at its Chang Bo subsidiary which specialises in smaller tonnage. Market sources indicate these orders were placed several months ago and have only recently become public.

Four 3,100 teu vessels have been booked at COSCO Shipping Heavy Industry's Guangdong yard, while the four 4,500 teu ships will be built by Yantai CIMC Raffles.

With this substantial order, Alpha Bulkers joins a growing number of Greek owners diversifying from bulk and tanker segments into containerships. Recent entrants include Latsco Shipping (through its Marla platform), Minerva Marine, and Transocean Maritime, alongside several non-operating owners concentrating on the same 1,900–4,500 teu size range.

Contract prices remain undisclosed, but current market rates for standard, conventionally powered newbuildings in China typically range from approximately $30 million per 1,900 teu vessel, $45 million for 3,100 teu units, and $57–59 million for each 4,500 teu ship.

The move reflects continued confidence among Greek shipping companies in the long-term prospects of the container sector, particularly in versatile mid-size tonnage that can serve a wide variety of trades and charter requirements.