Greece’s shipbuilding industry is set for a revival after ONEX Shipyards & Technologies Group and Megatugs Salvage & Towage signed a landmark agreement for the construction of two new tugboats, with an option for two additional vessels. The project will see the tugboats built entirely in Greece, marking a significant milestone for the domestic shipbuilding sector.
The agreement represents the first commercial tugboat shipbuilding project in Greece in many years, signaling renewed optimism for the country’s shipbuilding industry. The signing ceremony took place at ONEX’s shipyard facilities in Elefsina and was attended by notable dignitaries, including the United States Ambassador to Greece, Kimberly Guilfoyle, ONEX CEO Panos Xenokostas, Greek Minister of Maritime Affairs and Insular Policy Vasilis Kikilias, and Megatugs Salvage & Towage Director Paul M. Xiradakis.
Minister Kikilias emphasized that the contract opens the door for new investments in the Greek shipbuilding sector, fully compliant with Greek and European legislation. He also highlighted the project’s role in enhancing safety in ports and at sea, describing the agreement as a symbol of development, investment, and strong cooperation between Greece and the United States in maritime operations.
The project is widely expected to reinvigorate domestic shipbuilding activity, create jobs, and strengthen Greece’s position in the global maritime industry.