Naftika Chronika interview: The role and future of bulk carriers in global shipping

We are very pleased to announce the launch of our J.H.I. Steamship Co. website today, 21/12/2025, after six months of dedicated work.

Arion was a native of Lesbos, and according to some mythological accounts, a son of Poseidon, that created him by striking a rock in Attika with his trident All traditions agree in describing him, as a contemporary and friend of Periander, (625-585 b.c) tyrant of Corinth and one of the seven wise man of Ancient Greece.

J.H.I. Steamship Co. unveils its new logo, marking a fresh chapter in the company’s visual identity. The updated design reflects the brand’s commitment to innovation, reliability, and excellence in the maritime industry. The sleek and modern logo embodies both tradition and forward-thinking values, positioning J.H.I. Steamship Co. for continued growth and recognition worldwide.

We are happy to welcome Mr Ioannis Bravos to our organization. Officially starting from 1.1.2026 but already in the company organizing new automatic modules to our financial systems and a lot more.

J.H.I. Steamship Co. is honored to participate as Golden Sponsor of the exhibition “The Sea Unites”, held at the International Maritime Museum of Hamburg from 24 September to the end of November 2025. This significant event underscores the timeless role of the sea as a bridge between nations and cultures, highlighting the enduring spirit of maritime cooperation. During the opening ceremony, Mr. George Foustanos, founder of NAVIRA Non-Profit, delivered a distinguished address, emphasizing the historical and cultural ties that connect the global maritime community through shared values of partnership, heritage, and mutual respect.

Members of J.H.I. Steamship Co. and their associates enjoyed an exceptional evening at the Athens Observatory on September 18, 2025, as part of the company’s CSR initiatives. The event combined cultural discovery and stargazing with inspiring speeches, reflecting J.H.I. Steamship Co.’s commitment to fostering knowledge, collaboration, and strong human connections within its community.

As part of our collaboration with the University of Piraeus, we are pleased to announce the placement of selected graduating students in our internship program. From July to September 2025, Mr. Paraskevopoulos will join the Purchasing Department under the supervision of Ms. Banti, Mr. Nirgianakis will gain experience in both the Operations Department with Mr. Karampoulas and the Vetting Department with Mr. Anton Taranchenko, while Ms. Samothrakiti will complete her internship in the Crew Department under the supervision of Mr. Kostouros.

Dear Colleagues,
Kindly note that J.H.I. Steamship Co. has organized a visit to the National Observatory of Athens, located on top of Lofos of Nymphon in Thissio, on Thursday September 18th at 20:30.

During our visit, we will have the opportunity to explore the Geoastrophysics Museum, the Observatory’s historic library, and observe the Athenian sky by the first optical telescope of Greece, the Doridis telescope, housed under the dome of the Sina building.

At this event if you wish to invite family members - kids and spouse- you are welcome to do.

Please let us know at your earliest convenience your participation and the number of persons we should count for you, so we can make the appropriate arrangements.

Looking forward to your kind reply.

The Inglessis family has a distinguished maritime legacy spanning over 150 years, combining deep-rooted experience with a hands-on approach to shipping management. By embracing both tradition and modern corporate practices, J.H.I. Steamship Co. continues to develop high-quality vessels through strategic partnerships with Japanese shipyards, ensuring safety, efficiency, and environmental standards. The company’s long-standing presence in London and its commitment to technological innovation and skilled human resources underpin its resilience and growth, even amidst geopolitical and economic uncertainty. Reliability, collaboration, and expertise remain the cornerstones of the family’s enduring success in global shipping.

Samos Steamship Co. has built a distinctive corporate identity by investing in advanced technologies and fostering long-term partnerships. Operating in a rapidly evolving and demanding shipping industry, the company emphasizes continuous training and incentives for its highly skilled personnel to maintain operational excellence. Guided by values of honesty, teamwork, and adaptability, Samos Steamship Co. strategically pursues economies of scale, fleet diversification, and strategic collaborations to enhance efficiency and competitiveness. With a global presence and commitment to innovation, the company ensures that the continuation of Greek maritime tradition is supported by expert seafarers and a modern, ethically grounded organizational culture.

Samos Steamship Co., under the ownership of Mr. Antony and Mr. John Inglessis, is gradually minimizing its operations after managing a fleet of 26 vessels. As part of this transition, J.H.I. Steamship Co. will take over 17 vessels and continue operations under the same principles, values, and commitment to high standards. The company emphasizes continuity, with many experienced personnel from Samos Steamship Co. assuming key managerial roles, ensuring that operational procedures, seafarer benefits, and the company’s culture remain consistent. J.H.I. Steamship Co. warmly welcomes all crew members to this new chapter while maintaining focus on safety, efficiency, and teamwork.

Mr. Ioannis Inglesis, President and Director, welcomed Mr. Kyoto and shared his experience of the Japanese shipyards with the audience.

Bulk carriers offer seafarers unique opportunities due to the wide variety of cargoes they can transport—ranging from grains and coal to iron ore, steel coils, and pipes—and the large number of ports they can access worldwide. These vessels often operate on diverse and remote trade routes, sometimes relying on their own cargo-handling equipment, which allows them to serve ports with limited infrastructure. While bulk carrier voyages and port stays tend to be longer, requiring extended contracts for crew, they also cultivate resilience through demanding tasks such as frequent hold cleaning in all weather conditions. Structurally distinct from tankers, bulk carriers feature multiple hatch openings, numerous manholes, and often single-hull construction. As the industry transitions toward alternative fuels to meet IMO’s net-zero emissions target by 2050, future marine engineers must acquire advanced skills in fuel handling, emission control, automation, and electronic systems, ensuring safe and efficient vessel operation while upholding maritime tradition in a rapidly evolving technological landscape.

The bulk carrier market is expected to strengthen significantly in the coming years, driven by a combination of economic, geopolitical, and strategic factors rather than solely by investment costs. As highlighted by Mr. Giannis Inglesis, the decision to invest in bulk carriers versus tankers requires careful consideration of long-term company goals, market cycles, and global conditions. Mixed fleets can provide balance and risk diversification, while investments in bulk carriers are often seen as more manageable and strategically resilient, particularly in times of economic uncertainty.