Oldendorff Reflags Two Capesize Vessels to Germany

Oldendorff Carriers (Oldendorff) is reflagging two of its Capesize bulk carriers to Germany, underlining the company’s long standing ties to the country and its commitment to Germany’s maritime sector.

Earlier today, the Alice Oldendorff officially transferred from the Portuguese to the German flag in Saldanha Bay, South Africa. Capesize bulk carrier Gina Oldendorff is set to follow in the coming months. Both vessels will be registered with Hamburg as their home port.

The move has particular significance for Oldendorff. Founded in Hamburg in 1921, the family owned company has grown into one of the world’s largest dry bulk shipping companies, while maintaining close ties to Germany and its maritime community.

“Germany has a strong maritime heritage, deep industry expertise and a well-established framework for quality shipping. The improvements to enhance service and support for shipowners, together with the authorities’ commitment to maintaining a consistently high level of service, were important factors in our decision to return these vessels to the German flag. As a German family-owned company, bringing two of our largest bulk carriers under the German flag is a meaningful way for us to reaffirm our roots while supporting the continued strength and competitiveness of Germany’s maritime sector,” says Peter Bagh, Chief Operating Officer at Oldendorff Carriers.

The German flag is internationally recognised for its high standards and consistently performs well in international flag state assessments. Its regulatory framework places a strong emphasis on maritime safety, environmental protection and high standards for working and living conditions at sea.

“By choosing to bring these vessels under the German flag, Oldendorff is sending a strong signal of confidence in the German flag and Germany as a maritime location,” said Christian Hirte, Parliamentary State Secretary at the Federal Ministry of Transport. “Over the past two years in particular, we have made the German flag considerably more attractive and user-friendly while significantly reducing bureaucracy. I am very pleased that these efforts have convinced Oldendorff Carriers to fly the German flag, and I hope that many more German shipowners will follow their example.”

As of September 2026, the German merchant fleet comprises 404 vessels with a combined gross tonnage of approximately 8.86 million GT. With the registration of Alice Oldendorff (181,963 dwt; 93,718 GT) and Gina Oldendorff (182,002 dwt; 93,718 GT), large bulk carriers will return to the German flag for the first time in several years. The two Capesize vessels will be the only large bulk carriers currently operating under the German flag, marking a notable addition to Germany’s merchant fleet.