Qatar Navigation (Milaha) has struck a deal with Clasen Rickmers-led Asian Spirit Steamship to take a pair of feeder containerships from the German owner on a long-term charter.
The 2019-built 1,160 teu Spirit of Kolkata and Spirit of Chennai will be deployed on the Arabian Gulf and the Indian subcontinent services.
The Doha-based shipping and logistics group said the agreement marks a significant step toward establishing a modern and sustainable fleet of feeder vessels.
The chartered-in ships, equipped with hybrid scrubbers, are designed to deliver about 35% fuel savings and an average of 40% greater actual capacity compared to alternative tonnage in the segment.
“This agreement is pivotal not only for improving logistical efficiencies but also for contributing to the sustainable growth of maritime trade,” Milaha said at the arrival of Fujian Mawei-built vessels at Hamad port. Financial terms have not been disclosed.
Asian Spirit Steamship’s managing partner, Clasen Rickmers, added that the new partnership between Milaha and Rickmers establishes a solid foundation for a long-term relationship that opens the door for further collaboration between the two companies in the future.