New buildings for Lomar

This is all part of the strategy to meet the demand it is experiencing in both the bulk and containership sectors.

“We are very aware that we need to keep our fleet constantly updated. We looked carefully at the various options and felt that the shipyards chosen in China were offering excellent terms and had a good track record for delivering a high quality product on time,” a Lomar spokesperson told The Motorship.

“The market dynamics in the shipping industry are changing. To operate an efficient fleet you need to refresh it with vessels that are the very latest in design and efficiency. Our substantial investment demonstrates Lomar’s real commitment to operating a modern, fuel-efficient fleet with low emissions.”

Two of the options are for 1,100 teu container ships from the Yangzijiang shipyard. Designed by the Shanghai Merchant Ship Design and Research Institute (SDARI), the new ships will have improved fuel consumption and be able to carry 220 reefer containers.

Lomar has also firmed up the option for two new 2190 teu container ships from China’s Guangzhou Wenchoong shipyard which will be due for delivery in 2016. The company retains two more purchase options for sister vessels from the shipyard.

Finally, the company has increased its commitment to ultramax bulk carriers by making firm two of the options it had with the COSCO Group in China. Lomar now holds eight firm COSCO orders plus two remaining options to purchase.

The Dolphin 64,000 dwt vessels are SDARI designed to meet the highest standards for fuel efficiency and environmental compliance. The first of the ultramax bulk carriers is due for delivery this month.

Lomar is the shipping subsidiary of the Libra Group.