Wilson and Arkon Shipping have signed a deal to join forces and create Europe’s largest shortsea shipping company with a fleet of more than 130 vessels. 

The deal will see Wilson take 20 dry bulk carriers from Arkon’s fleet on long-term lease, including five eco-friendly multipurpose vessels that are set to join the fleet in two years time. Arkon Shipping will become an exclusive commercial representative and handle all Mediterranean export fixtures for the entire Wilson fleet.

“A larger system and market organization will increase efficiency, reduce overall ballast, improve operational expenditures and extend the European shipping network in line with the expansion strategy of the Wilson Group”, Wilson says in a short statement.

The agreement will also help both companies to secure capacity and strengthen their logistic systems while being better able to meet new environmental requirements from the European industry going forward.

Hanse Eco vessels

The deal includes the five Hanse Eco multipurpose vessels which Rhenus-Arkon-Shipinvest ordered last year. These 4,200 dwt multipurpose vessels will be powered by diesel-electric hybrid propulsion systems which meet the latest environmental regulation (IMO Tier III) and increase fuel efficiency through an improved hull design.

The vessels will have open-top cargo holds and the bridges will be located at the front to make them suitable for larger project cargoes.

Following the deal, Wilson will operate a fleet of more than 130 vessels of which 92 are owner-controlled. The agreement will be effective as of 1 September 2020 at the earliest but may be subject to approval from the authorities. Wilson will be ready to perform all contracts and client commitments currently performed by Arkon, the new partners state.