John Dragnis is believed to have returned to the dry bulk newbuilding market following a major move into gas carriers and selective secondhand acquisitions
Multiple shipping databases link Goldenport Shipmanagement to an order for two 63,500-dwt Ultramax bulk carriers at Nantong Xiangyu, with deliveries scheduled for 2029.
The Greek owner previously turned to the Chinese shipbuilder for its last dry bulk newbuilding programme, also comprising Ultramax vessels, with the final unit joining the fleet in 2024.
Greek owners have made a notable return to the dry bulk newbuilding space in 2026, signing contracts for Newcastlemax, Capesize, Kamsarmax, and Ultramax vessels.
According to Clarksons, Goldenport currently operates a fleet of 29 bulk carriers and container vessels. The company was active in the secondhand market in 2025, adding a 2012-built Capesize bulk carrier and a 2023-built feeder vessel.
Mr Dragnis attracted attention earlier this year when Oceangold Tankers signed a shipbuilding contract with HD Hyundai for two very large gas carriers (VLGCs), scheduled for delivery by 2029.
Oceangold entered the LPG carrier sector in 2022 and currently operates two VLGCs, built in 2016 and 2019.
The company is also nearing completion of an MR tanker newbuilding programme in China. Clarksons currently lists Oceangold with a fleet of 16 vessels, alongside three additional ships under construction.
Goldenport Group has also expanded its activities into the offshore support vessel segment.
Nantong Xiangyu appears to be enjoying a strong run of dry bulk orders, having secured contracts for vessels ranging from Ultramaxes to Newcastlemaxes in recent months.
Shipping databases also link Greece-based Union Commercial to an order for two Ultramax bulk carriers at the yard for delivery in 2029. The company has separately included the vessels on its fleet website.
Meanwhile, Mercuria, Doun Kisen and Winking Shipping are also reported to have contracted Newcastlemax newbuildings at Nantong Xiangyu.
