The Hellenic Statistical Authority (ELSTAT) has released new data for September 2025, revealing a mixed picture of Greece’s merchant fleet. While the total number of vessels increased slightly compared to the previous year, the overall tonnage of the fleet continued to decline. The figures highlight ongoing structural changes in the Greek shipping sector, with a shift toward smaller and more modern vessels.
Fleet Size Grows, but Total Tonnage Drops
According to ELSTAT, the number of Greek merchant vessels of 100 GT and above rose by 0.4% year-on-year, matching the growth rate reported in September 2024. Despite this increase, the total fleet tonnage fell by 3.8%, extending a downward trend seen in previous comparisons.
This decline indicates that although more ships are entering the fleet, many are smaller or replacing larger, aging vessels that are being phased out.
Fleet breakdown:
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Total fleet: 1,842 vessels / 34.96 million GT
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Freighters: 353 vessels (-1.1%) / tonnage down 6.1%
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Tankers: 405 vessels (-1.2%) / tonnage down 3.0%
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Passenger ships: 802 vessels (+1.8%) / tonnage down 2.3%
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Other vessel types: 282 vessels (+1.1%) / tonnage up 1.0%
Shift Toward Newer, Smaller Vessels
The data reflects an ongoing transformation in the Greek shipping industry. The moderate rise in the number of vessels, combined with a continual reduction in total tonnage, suggests a shift toward newer, more efficient, and smaller ships.
This trend is consistent with modernization efforts, environmental compliance, and evolving market needs. The gradual retirement of older, heavier vessels is reshaping the fleet composition, especially in freighters and tankers.
Greece’s merchant fleet in September 2025 shows steady numerical growth but a noticeable reduction in overall tonnage. This pattern highlights a strategic shift toward modernization and fleet renewal, aligning with global shipping trends. As the sector continues to evolve, Greece appears to be prioritizing efficiency, safety, and sustainability while maintaining its strong maritime presence.
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Source: CONTAINER NEWS
