The Bodouroglou family-led Stem Shipping has quietly acquired two Supramax bulk carriers in the sale and purchase (S&P) market, further expanding its dry bulk portfolio
The Greek shipowner has emerged as the buyer of 2010-built, 57,000-dwt Ionakos and Philippakos, formerly known as Mesk and Avra I respectively.Several shipbroking firms had reported in early March that the vessels had changed hands, though without identifying the purchaser. Greek shipbrokers initially reported that Mesk had been sold for just under US$11M, while Avra I fetched a price in excess of US$11M. Notably, both vessels were built at Chinese shipyards.
Riviera recently reported that Supramax bulk carriers ranked as the second-most traded segment in S&P deals during the first quarter of the year, with 38 vessels sold. Xclusiv Shipbrokers data reveals that March was the most active month in terms of transactions, with 16 Supramax vessels reportedly changing hands.
While Chinese buyers have continued to dominate the S&P market – including in the Supramax sector – Greek interests have also ramped up their activity, currently focusing more heavily on the Kamsarmax segment.
Fleet and corporate profile
Stem Shipping operates a diversified fleet of 13 vessels, comprising 10 bulk carriers, two feeder container ships, and one Suezmax tanker. The majority of its dry bulk tonnage falls within the /Supramax segment. As of April 2025, the fleet has an average age of 11 years, with more than 70% consisting of modern, eco-design vessels.
Representing the next generation of the Greek shipowning community, Katerina Bodouroglou serves as managing director at Stem Shipping. Speaking at a forum during last year’s Posidonia exhibition in Greece, she reflected on the pressure of succeeding successful family members in the business. She noted “every generation brings its own set of values and innovations, while continuing to honour the timeless principles that define the family itself.”
