Almi Marine Back in Newbuild Arena with Ultramax Pair
•February 17, 2026
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Companies Mentioned
Why It Matters
The deal strengthens Almi’s competitive position by modernising its fleet with environmentally‑compliant vessels, meeting charterer demand for lower‑emission bulk carriers. It also signals renewed confidence in Chinese shipyards amid a global new‑build slowdown.
Key Takeaways
- •Almi orders two 64,000 dwt ultramax vessels
- •Delivery slated for Q2 2029 from NACKS, China
- •Ships meet upcoming EEDI Phase IV standards
- •Equipped with Everllence 10.7 engine and CO₂ protection
- •Part of fleet renewal, retiring 2008 supramax
Pulse Analysis
The dry‑bulk sector has seen a cautious rebound in new‑building activity after pandemic‑induced delays, with Chinese yards like NACKS and DACKS capturing a growing share of orders. Their competitive pricing, combined with advanced modular construction techniques, makes them attractive partners for European owners seeking to replace aging tonnage. Almi Marine’s latest contract underscores this trend, highlighting the strategic value of sourcing ultramax vessels from a region that balances cost efficiency with rapid delivery timelines.
Environmental regulations are reshaping bulk carrier design, and the upcoming EEDI Phase IV limits are a pivotal driver. Almi’s new‑generation ultramaxes incorporate the Everllence 10.7 electronic main engine, which delivers higher fuel efficiency and lower emissions compared with conventional diesel setups. Additional features such as CO₂‑protected cargo holds and dual 25‑tonne coil systems enhance cargo safety and operational flexibility, making the ships more attractive to charterers focused on sustainability and cost control.
For Almi Marine, the two‑ship order is a cornerstone of a broader fleet renewal agenda aimed at shedding older, less efficient vessels like the 2008 supramax Anasa. By modernising its fleet, Almi can command higher charter rates, meet stricter environmental clauses, and reduce operating costs. The timing aligns with a projected upswing in global grain and iron‑ore shipments, positioning the company to capture market share as demand for greener, more efficient bulk carriers accelerates.
Almi Marine back in newbuild arena with ultramax pair
Greek dry‑bulk player Almi Marine Management has returned to the new‑building market after a four‑year break, booking two next‑generation ultramax bulk carriers in China.
Managing director Christos Hadjigeorgiou confirmed on social media that the company has signed a contract with Nantong Cosco KHI Ship Engineering (NACKS) for two 64,000 dwt ships, with deliveries scheduled for the second quarter of 2029.
The vessels will be the first in what the owner describes as a new‑generation design, built to meet EEDI Phase IV requirements once the rule comes into force. They will be fitted with the latest Everllence 10.7 electronic main engine and feature 2 × 25‑tonne coil capability, CO₂ protection for cargo holds and a range of upgrades aimed at improving efficiency and charterer appeal.
Almi Marine has longstanding ties with both NACKS and its sister yard, Dalian Cosco KHI Ship Engineering (DACKS). The company took delivery of three ultramaxes from DACKS in 2024, following an order placed in April 2022.
Established in 1992, Almi Marine currently controls a fleet of seven bulkers, and the order is part of a broader move to replace older tonnage. S&P data shows that the company has already agreed to offload its oldest vessel, the 2008‑built supramax Anasa.
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