The Netherlands-based shipbuilder Ferus Smit has received an order to build up to four small handy bulk carriers for Irish shipping company Arklow Shipping, according to data provided by VesselsValue.

Featuring 16,500 dwt each, two of the new bulkers are scheduled for delivery in the second half of 2018, while the remaining two 10,074 gross ton vessel would join their owner in May and November 2019, respectively.

The financial details of the contract were not disclosed, however, VesselsValue informed that the market value of the ships is around USD 7.5 million a piece.

The eco bulk carriers will have a length of 149.5 meters and a width of 19.4 meters.

Arklow Shipping currently operates a fleet of 43 general cargo vessels and two bulkers.

With the latest order, the company has increased its newbuildings orderbook at Ferus Smit to 12 vessels, eight of which are 5,200 dwt general cargo ships, VesselsValue data shows.

World Maritime News Staff