Greek shipowner Imperial Petroleum is continuing its fleet expansion with the purchase of three Japanese-built bulk carriers from Brave Maritime, a sister company controlled by the Vafias family.

The Harry Vafias-led outfit disclosed that the deal is valued at $51.6m, with 10% of the consideration to be paid in Imperial Petroleum stock. The three unnamed vessels, averaging around 12.5 years of age, will be delivered between September 2025 and August 2026.

The acquisition will add approximately 164,400 dwt to the company’s bulker capacity and builds on an earlier deal that brought six Japanese-built bulkers into the fleet, totalling about 387,000 dwt, including the 2012-built 55,800 dwt Supra Pasha (pictured).

Imperial Petroleum, spun off from StealthGas in 2021 with just four vessels, has grown quickly. With the latest deal, the company’s fleet will reach 22 ships, spanning the tanker and dry bulk segments.