Greek shipping fleet expands capacity amid industry concentration

The Greek-owned shipping fleet is undergoing a period of intense concentration, characterized by a growing total capacity despite a slight decrease in the number of active shipping companies. According to reports from Petrofin Research, the Greek fleet reached 6,822 vessels with a total capacity of 493.5 million dwt in 2025, representing approximately 17.5% of the global capacity.

While the number of Greek shipping companies decreased slightly to 587, the largest players are expanding significantly. Companies managing more than 1 million dwt have increased to 89, controlling 80.8% of the total Greek-owned capacity. This trend suggests that scale is becoming a necessity for survival due to rising operational costs and stricter environmental regulations.

Investment in new vessels remains high, with an orderbook of 679 ships totaling 60.4 million dwt. Additionally, Danaos has announced the delivery of its newest containership, the M/V Patmos Express, as part of its ongoing fleet expansion. Greece currently maintains its position as the second-largest shipping nation by deadweight tonnage, following China and ahead of Japan.