The second-hand ship market continues to move apace with activity by operators in particular driving pricing, according to UK-based shipbroker Braemar.
Wan Hai Lines seems to be one of the most aggressive players in the post Panamax tonnage sector, after they set a new benchmark on baby-Panamaxes several weeks ago.
Braemar understands the Taiwanese carrier to have committed to a number of
vessels of between 6,300 – 7,000TEU at prices, unsurprisingly, significantly improved.
A representative case of the incredible progression in values since the summer is the sale of the 6,400TEU Partner Star. The Imabari Shipyard-built vessel had been purchased from its former owners at a price of a little more than US$10 million and the new owners, having renewed its class, have agreed to sell it to Wan Hai for approximately US$26 million.
Braemar has pointed out several other smaller pricing improvements in its weekly briefing, such as the potential CMA CGM acquisition of the 5,500TEU sister vessels Wide India and Wide Alpha at a reported price of US$38.5 million each.
In addition, the 2009-built Seamelody with 4,900TEU capacity has been committed at US$18.5 million to Middle Eastern buyers, while clients of MPC have agreed to purchase two sister vessels Nordwinter and Nordspring both for US$22 million.
“Many firm discussions are still ongoing and the market is set for a busy lead up to the festive season,” commented Braemar.
