Splash247: Diana adds to rate gains with new capesize fixture

Published by Splash247

Greek bulker owner Diana Shipping has secured an 18% rate increase for its capesize Florida in a new charter with Japan’s NYK.

The 2022-built, 182,063 dwt vessel will earn $30,500 per day, minus a 5% commission, for between 32 and 35.5 months. The charter is expected to start during the second quarter of 2027 and generate about $29.28m in gross revenue over the minimum term.

The vessel is currently on charter to Bunge at $25,900 per day, also minus a 5% commission.

Diana acquired the Japanese newbuilding resale for about $60.1m in late 2021 before fixing the ship to Bunge for between 58 and 62 months from March 2022.

The latest deal adds to a run of stronger fixtures for the Semiramis Paliou-led company. Last month, Diana secured a 65% rate increase for the 2012-built newcastlemax Philadelphia, fixing the vessel to Classic Maritime at $35,500 per day from August. The owner has also recently secured improved employment for the panamax Ismene and kamsarmax Medusa.

Diana operates 36 bulkers with a combined carrying capacity of about 4.1m dwt. The owner also has two methanol dual-fuel kamsarmax newbuildings due for delivery in the second half of 2027 and first half of 2028.

Away from chartering, Diana’s pursuit of US-listed Genco Shipping & Trading remains unresolved. Diana allowed its $24.80-per-share cash tender to expire on July 24 but has kept a separate cash-and-stock proposal on the table, valuing Genco at an implied $27.34 per share. Genco’s board is continuing to review that offer.