Samudera Shipping Line and Imoto Corporation's Japanese joint venture has placed its first newbuilding order, contracting a 696 teu feeder vessel in China, according to Splash247. The order moves the Kobe-based Blue Ocean Shipping from secondhand tonnage into direct newbuild ownership as it builds out Japan's coastal and regional container services.
Blue Ocean Shipping was incorporated earlier this year, with Samudera Japan holding a 51% stake and Imoto the remaining 49%, Splash247 reported. The venture started operations with two containerships acquired from Imoto Lines, taking delivery of the Sagami and Hyogo in March. Those secondhand vessels now form the core of a fleet that will gain a brand-new feeder in 2028.
Venture Structure and Fleet
According to Splash247, Samudera Japan owns 51% of Blue Ocean Shipping, while Imoto holds 49%. The Kobe-based venture operates in Japan's coastal and regional shipping markets. Blue Ocean took delivery of the Sagami and Hyogo, both containerships acquired from Imoto Lines, in March.
| Vessel | Type | Acquisition / Order | Delivery |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sagami | Containership (secondhand) | Acquired from Imoto Lines | March |
| Hyogo | Containership (secondhand) | Acquired from Imoto Lines | March |
| Newbuild | 696 teu feeder | Ordered from Zhejiang Xinle Shipbuilding | First half 2028 |
Newbuilding Contract and Shipyard
Blue Ocean Shipping signed the newbuilding contract with Zhejiang Xinle Shipbuilding, Splash247 reported. The 696 teu feeder is scheduled for delivery in the first half of 2028. The latest deal is Blue Ocean's first newbuilding order, a shift from the secondhand tonnage it initially acquired.
The latest deal is Blue Ocean's first newbuilding order.
Samudera, a Singapore-listed Indonesian owner, said the vessel will support the venture's expansion in Japan's coastal and regional shipping markets, according to Splash247.
Implications for Shippers and Operators
For freight forwarders, 3PLs, and port authorities tracking Japan's feeder trade, Blue Ocean Shipping now has three vessels associated with the venture: the Sagami, the Hyogo, and the 696 teu newbuild on order, according to Splash247. Samudera said the vessel will support the venture's expansion in Japan's coastal and regional shipping markets. Delivery in the first half of 2028 will add a modern feeder unit to the fleet.
Watch List
The scheduled delivery of the 696 teu feeder from Zhejiang Xinle Shipbuilding in the first half of 2028 is the primary upcoming milestone for Blue Ocean Shipping, according to Splash247.
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