China Shipping Container Lines (CSCL) has hit the megaship newbuilding headlines with a new order for up to 11 21,000 TEU vessels which will be bareboat chartered to CSCL (HK).

The deal involves a firmed-up contract for six vessels plus a further option for five identical sister vessels, all for delivery in 2018. The first vessel is scheduled for delivery in April 2018, and the last in December 2018.

No further news on the shipbuilder or owner(s) were available at press time, but the vessels are to be deployed on the Asia/North Europe trade.

Daily agreed charter hire per vessel is US$41,000. The charter period will be for 12 years.

By Paul Richardson

Sea Freight Correspondent | London