Hong Kong shipowner K.C. Maritime (KCM) is expanding its fleet with the order of two new 63,500 DWT bulk carriers from China’s Jiangsu Soho Tech Group.
The agreement strengthens the relationship between the two companies and represents another milestone for Soho Tech Group’s popular 63,500 DWT bulk carrier design, which has now reached a total of 37 orders worldwide.
KCM, a subsidiary of the long-established Chellaram Group, currently operates a fleet of 12 vessels, including four kamsarmax bulk carriers and eight ultramax and supramax ships.
The two new vessels will be equipped with a single-engine and single-propeller propulsion system, a configuration designed to improve efficiency while supporting more environmentally responsible operations.
Each ship will measure 199.9 metres in length, with a 32.26-metre beam, a depth of 18.9 metres and a structural draft of 13.5 metres.
Designed to operate at a service speed of 13.5 knots with a range of up to 20,000 nautical miles, the vessels will include advanced energy-saving technologies aimed at reducing fuel consumption and improving overall performance.
Soho Tech Group said the design has become increasingly popular among shipowners because it combines operational reliability, efficiency and environmental performance, making it one of the most widely selected bulk carrier models currently available on the newbuilding market.
The shipbuilder has continued to gain recognition from international owners thanks to its ability to deliver vessels consistently while maintaining strict construction standards.
Earlier this year, Soho Tech Group’s Chuangke Shipyard achieved a new milestone by completing the delivery of one of two 35,000 DWT bulk carriers more than 50 days ahead of schedule, setting a record for the yard’s fastest delivery.
With this latest order from K.C. Maritime, Jiangsu Soho Tech Group continues to strengthen its presence in the dry bulk sector, as shipowners increasingly look for vessels that can combine commercial performance with improved environmental efficiency.
