Seaspan inks charter deal with OOCL for new eco-friendly 13,600 TEU boxships

October 24, 2024, by Fatima Bahtić

Hong Kong-based containership lessor Seaspan Corporation has signed a charter agreement with compatriot shipowner Orient Overseas Container Lines (OOCL) for six 13,600 TEU containerships recently ordered at Hudong-Zhonghua Shipbuilding, a subsidiary of China State Shipbuilding Corporation (CSSC).

The ships will feature many eco-friendly technologies and adopt the latest concepts. Furthermore, the vessels will be equipped with desulfurization towers and energy-saving devices to ensure they will meet the emission reduction targets, according to Seaspan.

The expected delivery of these vessels is from the fourth quarter of 2026 to the first quarter of 2028. They are to be chartered for 15 years starting from the time of delivery, OOCL said.

The shipping firm has been actively evaluating the global economic landscape and the shipping industry’s operating environment, along with the supply and demand dynamics for container vessels.

Furthermore, the shipowner was strategically timing the introduction of larger, advanced, and energy-efficient vessels to enhance its fleet’s structure and competitiveness.

By entering into charter agreements, OOCL stated that it could start receiving these new vessels as early as 2026. They are expected to enable “greater flexibility for fleet planning and operations amid varying economic conditions.”

This strategic decision aims to ensure “steady growth in shipping capacity, leverage economies of scale, and bolster the fleet’s core competitiveness and service offerings.” Ultimately, it is said to strengthen OOCL’s position within the industry and support the company’s ongoing global expansion.