Thenamaris is pressing ahead with its tanker fleet renewal programme after booking three LR2 product tanker newbuildings at China’s Hengli Heavy Industries, further strengthening its position in the product tanker segment.
The Chinese shipyard confirmed the order via social media, although no pricing details or delivery schedule have been disclosed.
This latest move adds to an already active newbuilding pipeline for the Nikolas Martinos-led shipping group, which has been steadily renewing and expanding its tanker fleet across multiple vessel classes over recent years.
At present, Thenamaris operates a diversified fleet that includes more than 20 LR2 tankers and over 50 tankers in total. Its wider portfolio also covers 24 bulk carriers, seven LNG carriers, six LPG carriers and two containerships, excluding vessels currently on order.
The Greek owner has been particularly active in the LR2 segment, with several recent deliveries further modernising its fleet. In 2025, the company took delivery of a series of LR2 product tankers built at Shanghai Waigaoqiao Shipbuilding and Hyundai Vietnam Shipbuilding as part of its ongoing renewal programme.
The new Chinese order comes shortly after reports that Thenamaris also returned to South Korea’s newbuilding market, reportedly signing a contract for MR2 product tankers at HD Hyundai Mipo. According to Athens-based brokerage sources, the deal covers four scrubber-fitted 50,000 dwt vessels scheduled for delivery through 2028.
Beyond conventional tanker segments, Thenamaris has also been increasing its exposure to alternative fuel shipping. Earlier this year, the company entered the very large ammonia carrier segment with an order for two 90,000 cu m VLAC newbuildings at Jiangnan Shipyard, marking its first step into ammonia-fuelled shipping. Those vessels are expected to be delivered in 2029.
The latest Hengli deal also reflects the growing appeal of Chinese shipyards for Greek tanker owners. Other Greek players recently linked to LR2 orders at Hengli include Minerva Marine, interests associated with the Laskaridis Shipping Group, and Monte Nero Maritime.
