Following years of restraint, the last two quarters have seen a massive wave of fresh container ship newbuilding orders, especially for ultra large vessels.
High freight rates and the shipping lines’ strong financial results have finally renewed confidence in the carriers’ ability to generate money in the very capital intensive liner shipping industry.
Over the past six months, carriers, non-operating owners and lessors have placed orders for approx. 2.00 MTEU of new container ships.
The orderbook-to fleet ratio has jumped from 8.8% six months ago to 14.2% today and will exceed 15% when some preliminary orders are firmed.
The vast majority of newly-ordered capacity will be for 12 KTEU, 15 KTEU and 24 KTEU vessels.
One fifth of the new ships will be LNG-powered. Most vessels will be conventionally powered and fitted with scrubbers. A minor part will come with dual-fuel capabilities and natural gas power.
Some vessels will be delivered in 2022, but the vast majority are scheduled for delivery through 2024 and to mid-2024.
Source: DHL / Alphaliner
