MPCC places six-ship feeder vessel order

By Admin

17 Dec, 2025

MPC Container Ships (MPCC) continues to reshape its fleet strategy, announcing the signing of contracts in China for six new feeder vessels. This latest expansion underlines the Oslo-listed tonnage provider’s focus on long-term growth and sustainable operations.

The order, placed with Taizhou Sanfu Ship Engineering, includes six 3,700 TEU ships scheduled for delivery from the second half of 2028. Each vessel will be committed to a 10-year charter extendable secured with a top-five liner operator. This approach ensures MPCC achieves long-dated earnings visibility even before the first ship is delivered.

Innovative Design for Regional and Feeder Trades

The new ships feature a design optimized for regional and feeder trades. Emphasis is placed on lower fuel consumption, flexible operating speeds, and readiness for alternative fuels. They are also prepared to accommodate future emissions-reduction technologies, allowing MPCC to adapt seamlessly to evolving environmental regulations throughout the vessels’ lifespans.

The total investment for this project is estimated at $292.5 million. MPCC projects that the initial charter period will generate around $479 million in revenue and approximately $288 million in EBITDA. The financing of the newbuildings will be a combination of equity and debt, preserving the company’s balance-sheet flexibility.

Strategic Joint Venture Enhances Investment Capacity

Alongside the newbuilding order, MPCC has established a 50/50 joint venture with Norwegian investment vehicle Uthalden, controlled by Harald Moræus-Hanssen. This joint venture will hold two 4,500 TEU vessels previously fully owned by MPCC and already on charter to a top-tier liner company.

MPCC stated that the JV structure will free up committed capital and sharpen its investment capacity, allowing the vessels to be financed with moderate leverage while maintaining flexibility for future growth.

A Year of Fleet Renewal and Expansion

The six-ship order marks the culmination of a busy 2025 for MPCC. Earlier in the year, the company ordered four 4,500 TEU vessels in November, two 1,600 TEU ships in October, and four 4,500 TEU units in July, all backed by long-term charters.

Selective asset sales are also part of MPCC’s strategy. The company confirmed the sale of AS Clementina, a vessel nearing its 20-year class renewal, for $24 million. The transfer is expected following the expiration of its current charter toward the end of Q2 2026.

Strong Backlog Positions MPCC for Growth

Chief Executive Constantin Baack described 2025 as a “transformational year” for the company. With 17 newbuildings now on order, starting deliveries from 2026, MPCC’s contracted backlog has surpassed $2 billion. This positions the company for steady growth and strong earnings visibility, even amid volatile market conditions.

With a clear focus on sustainable operations, strategic partnerships, and long-term earnings cover, MPCC’s latest moves signal its commitment to maintaining a modern, competitive, and environmentally responsible feeder fleet.