Lloyd's List - Patrick Hagen - Thursday 18th November 2010

HAMBURG-based ship manager Hammonia Reederei has snapped up a 2,800 teu containership from shipbuilder Nordic Yards that was abandoned by its initial owner, Lloyd’s List has learned, writes Patrick Hagen in Cologne

Hammonia is a joint venture of tramp owner Peter Döhle , KG house HCI Capital and General Electric.

The ship was initially ordered by Reederei Laeisz , together with a sistership from Wadan Yards, a predecessor of Nordic Yards.

Laeisz cancelled the order when Wadan Yards became insolvent but later accepted delivery of one of the vessels. Nordic Yards then bought the hull of the second ship from Wadan Yards’ administrator in order to complete it.

Recently, Nordic Yards said there were several potential buyers for the ship. The vessel will be ready for delivery in April 2011.

Laeisz had ordered the ships for an initial €42m ($57m) each. Hammonia confirmed the acquisition to Lloyd’s List and said it would pay 30% less than the original price tag.

Döhle has already arranged a two-year charter contract for the vessel which will cover operating costs as well as debt service, Hammonia said. The ship will be managed by Hammonia.