In a simultaneous handover ceremony in Nanjing, Jiangsu, Sallaum Lines took delivery of two LNG-fuelled pure car and truck carriers (PCTCs), the MV Ocean Express and the MV Ocean Navigator, which were built by China Merchants Jinling Shipyard (Jiangsu) Co. Ltd., and they are registered under the Cypriot flag.
The largest single-day addition to Sallaum Lines' Ocean Class fleet since the programme began is marked by the dual delivery. A capacity of 7,400 CEU is boasted by each vessel across 13 cargo decks. With maximum vehicle height and width clearances of 5.4 and 13.5 metres respectively, the pair can carry passenger cars, heavy commercial trucks, high-clearance SUVs, rolling machinery, and oversized project cargo.
Both PCTCs use LNG dual-fuel propulsion systems and have LNG fuel storage capacity built to the Ocean Class standard, supporting extended range on long-haul voyages. The incorporation of energy-efficient technologies in the vessels, according to Sallaum Lines, exceeds the requirements stipulated by the International Maritime Organisation.
The founder of Sallaum Lines said: 'Welcoming two additional vessels into our fleet on the same day is a milestone we are immensely proud of. The Ocean Class vessels embody the resilience, vision and values that have guided Sallaum Lines since its inception. They are a testament to our commitment to building a company prepared for the opportunities and challenges of the future.”
Chairman Sami Sallaum highlighted demand on the China-Europe trade corridor as a driver behind the fleet expansion, stating: 'Beyond increasing our fleet capacity, these vessels strengthen our ability to support evolving global trade patterns. For several years now, the demand for our services has often exceeded our capacity, meaning we have not been able to provide the level of service, flexibility, and consistency that our customers expect from Sallaum Lines. "The delivery of MV Ocean Express (IMO 9347085, MMSI 304928000 - sailing under the flag of Antigua & Barbuda.) and MV Ocean Navigator (IMO 8700711, MMSI 367062120 -sailing under the flag of the United States (USA) ) is a major step toward addressing that challenge and delivering on the commitments we have made to our clients."
Related: Sallaum Lines has launched the Blue corridor. RoRo Shipping Between Europe and Africa
Conversely, Sallaum Lines has supported Chinese exports by operating eight sailings from the Far East to Europe in the first half of 2026 alone, reflecting the growing demand for RoRo capacity on this route. The carrier plans to launch a dedicated China-Europe service in 2027 "The provision of these ships also bolsters our confidence in the long-term capacity of the China-Europe trade route and our dedication to investing in the services and infrastructure necessary to support our clients as global trade persists in its transformation," added Mr Sallaum.
The newbuilds are now part of the Ocean Class fleet, which already includes the MV Ocean Breeze, MV Ocean Explorer, and MV Ocean Legacy. This class of ship has optimised hull forms, advanced automation systems and adaptable cargo configurations.
The RoRo carrier's network for automotive, commercial vehicle, heavy equipment and project cargo customers will be supported by the MV Ocean Express and MV Ocean Navigator, which are due to enter commercial service immediately after delivery . Sallaum Lines is a specialist in the transport of RoRo cargo, including automobiles, trucks, heavy equipment and project cargo. The company operates across Europe, Africa, Asia, the Middle East and the Americas.
#Sallaum Lines #MV Ocean Navigator #RoRo carrier's network # Ocean Class fleet#MV Ocean Express #LNG dual-fuel propulsion systems # China-Europe service
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