Diana Shipping has locked in a 63% rate increase for its panamax bulker Atalandi, chartering the vessel to Stone Shipping at $16,500 per day, according to Splash247. The improved fixture highlights the continued strengthening of dry bulk charter rates for the New York-listed Greek owner.
Charter Terms
The 2014-built, 77,529 dwt ice-class Atalandi will earn $16,500 per day, less a 5% commission, beginning August 5, 2026. The charter runs at least until August 1, 2027, with options extending to the end of September 2027. Diana expects the extension to generate about $5.89 million in gross revenue over the minimum scheduled period, Splash247 reported.
The new rate represents a $6,400-per-day improvement over the vessel’s current $10,100 rate with the same charterer. Stone Shipping originally took the ship in June 2025 at $9,000 per day for the first 35 days, rising to $10,100 for the remainder of the previous contract.
Diana’s Fleet and Recent Fixtures
Diana Shipping, led by CEO Semiramis Paliou, operates a fleet of 36 bulkers, including five panamaxes. The company also has two methanol dual-fuel kamsarmax newbuildings scheduled for delivery in 2027 and 2028.
The Atalandi fixture is the latest in a series of improved charters Diana has secured this year. Other notable fixtures include:
| Vessel | Charterer | New Rate (per day) | Previous Rate (per day) | Change |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ultramax DSI Pegasus | Fednav | $18,350 | $14,250 | +$4,100 |
| Kamsarmax Medusa | Aquavita | $16,850 | $13,000 (Cargill) | +$3,850 |
| Panamax Ismene | Paralos | $15,750 | $11,000 | +$4,750 |
| Post-panamax Polymnia | Oldendorff (extension) | $20,000 | $14,000 | +$6,000 |
These fixtures, all reported by Splash247, reflect Diana’s ability to lock in significantly higher earnings as dry bulk demand firms. The Atalandi deal alone adds $5.89 million in gross revenue, with each of the other vessels contributing proportionate gains over their respective minimum charter periods.
Implications for Shippers and Operators
For charterers and freight operators, the upward trajectory in Diana’s fixtures signals tightening supply of panamax and kamsarmax tonnage, particularly for ice-class and eco-modern vessels. The 63% premium on Atalandi suggests strong demand for assured cargo delivery especially on routes requiring ice capability, though the source did not specify trading lanes.
Shippers looking to secure medium-term tonnage may face escalating costs; Diana’s extension with Stone Shipping at $16,500/day provides a benchmark for panamax deals of similar duration. Operators with open tonnage in the Atlantic or Pacific could capitalise on comparable rate levels, while those with fixed-rate contracts may want to reassess re‑let opportunities.
Watch List
- Diana’s two methanol dual-fuel kamsarmax newbuildings scheduled for 2027/2028 delivery, which could add modern eco‑capacity to the fleet.
- Any further rate improvements on Diana’s remaining vessels as the company continues to roll over expiring charters.
- Broader dry bulk demand indicators from major importers, which will influence whether the current rate momentum persists into Q4 2026.
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