Ernst Russ and Eimskip expand ElbFeeder fleet with new containership order
German shipowner Ernst Russ and Icelandic transport company Eimskip have placed an order for two 2,280 TEU containerships for their joint venture ElbFeeder. The contract was signed with China Merchants Jin Ling Shipyard (Nanjing) and includes options for two additional vessels. Delivery is scheduled for the second half of 2028.
Upon delivery, the ElbFeeder fleet will grow to nine vessels (excluding the options).
Deployment and market significance
The new containerships will become the largest vessels in Eimskip’s fleet and will operate on the Blue Line service, connecting Reykjavik, Rotterdam, and Teesport, under a 10-year charter agreement.
The charter hire is expected to reach around USD 86 million in 2028, partially offsetting the expiry of existing Blue Line contracts.
Vessel features
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Capacity: 2,280 TEU
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Designed for North Atlantic conditions
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Optimized hull form with silicone coating for greater energy efficiency
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Shore power connectivity
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Dual-fuel engines capable of running on LNG and methanol
Leadership comments
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Vilhelm Már Þorsteinsson, CEO of Eimskip: the order supports seafood export growth and fleet renewal.
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Josef Schuchmann, co-CEO of Ernst Russ: this marks the company’s first newbuilding order in decades and a significant milestone.
