Aqmaris has ordered eight Ultramax bulk carriers in China, expanding its fleet to 12 vessels, according to industry sources.
According to industry press, Aqmaris' Ultramax program in China has reached 12 vessels.
Based in Istanbul, Aqmaris has reportedly ordered eight Ultramax bulk carriers with a deadweight tonnage of approximately 64,000 dwt from Nantong Xiangyu and has exercised two options at Wuhu Shipyard. This brings the total number of vessels in the company's Ultramax newbuilding program in China to 12; there is currently no public statement from the company or shipyard regarding the latest transaction.
A large-scale program has been added to Turkish shipowners' newbuilding investments in Chinese shipyards. According to a report published by TradeWinds on August 6 and brought to the agenda on August 7, Aqmaris has reached an agreement with Nantong Xiangyu Shipbuilding & Offshore Engineering for eight Ultramax vessels.
Aqmaris has also finalized the two options in the contract for two firm plus two optional “Dolphin” class Ultramax vessels with a deadweight tonnage of 64,500 dwt, which it signed with Wuhu Shipyard in January. This increases the number of vessels at Wuhu to four, and the total newbuilding program with Nantong Xiangyu to 12. Deliveries are expected to be spread over the 2028–2029 period.
The contract value has not been disclosed.
The price and detailed technical specifications of the eight vessels at Nantong Xiangyu have not been publicly announced. According to previously shared information regarding the Wuhu design, the vessels will comply with IMO Tier III and EEDI Phase III requirements; they will be suitable for high-voltage shore power and future battery pack integration.
Some Turkish publications have claimed that Aqmaris has also ordered four “64,500 dwt MR2 tankers” from Wuhu. This section has not been confirmed in international maritime sources reporting the main development of the order; additionally, the stated tonnage appears inconsistent with the classic MR2 definition. Since there is no public company or shipyard confirmation, the tanker claim has not been included in this news.
Maritime impact: The twelve-vessel program indicates Turkish investment appetite for modern tonnage with high fuel efficiency in the medium-sized dry cargo fleet. While industry press reports that there is Chinese leasing support for the Wuhu section, the financing for the eight vessels at Nantong Xiangyu has not been disclosed.
Source: SeaNews Türkiye
