28 / 03 / 2025
The Propeller Club of Piraeus organized a conference at the Yacht Club of Greece on the subject of Japanese shipyards, in the presence of Ambassador Mr. Kyoto.
Mr. Ioannis Inglesis, President and Director, welcomed Mr. Kyoto and shared his experience of the Japanese shipyards with the audience.
Your Excellency, Ambassador of Japan to Greece, Mr. Koichi ITO,
We are deeply honored by your presence at today’s event. Your attendance is a tangible expression of the strong and enduring bilateral relations between Japan and Greece.
Mr. ITO Koichi is a distinguished diplomat with a law degree from the University of Tokyo and a master’s from Harvard. Throughout his career, he has played vital roles in Japan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, serving in China, Malaysia, and most recently as Ambassador to New Zealand. In recognition of his outstanding service, he was honored with the U.S. Outstanding Public Service Award in 2020.
This event is dedicated to Japan and to the longstanding and fruitful partnership between Japanese and Greek businesses in the shipping sector—particularly in the field of shipbuilding.
Greek shipowners have commissioned approximately 2,000 vessels from Japanese shipyards. This remarkable relationship began in 1950 and, by the mid-1950s, Greek shipping interests accounted for nearly 50% of Japan’s ship production.
Greek companies have played a pivotal role in the post-war development of the Japanese shipbuilding industry. Throughout the 1960s, orders from Greece continued at a steady pace. In the 1970s, Greek shipowners placed many significant orders, especially for large vessels such as Capesize bulk carriers and, notably, VLCCs—an area where Japanese shipyards were global pioneers.
I still remember during late seventies, the JAHRE VICKING, she was the biggest ship ever built, a 650.000 dwt build in Sumitomo Heavy in Yokosuka near by Tokyo.
While the global shipping crisis of the 1980s posed major challenges, it also brought new opportunities. During this period, many Greek shipping companies expanded rapidly, relying on both newly built and second-hand Japanese vessels.
What has always characterized Japanese shipbuilding is quality and consistency—qualities that remain unchanged to this day.
The sea connects nations, and the shipping industry exemplifies this connection. The 70-year unbroken relationship between Japanese shipbuilders and Greek shipowners is a prime example of international cooperation at its best.
Personally, I have had the privilege of experiencing this collaboration for over 25 years. Our company, SSC, has built more than 40 vessels in all major Japanese shipyards, and this relationship continues to thrive.
Despite today’s competitive landscape, with new regulations and alternative fuels shaping the future of the industry, our partnership remains strong. I am confident that it holds even greater promise for the years ahead.
At present, around 60 Greek vessels are under construction in Japan—a clear indication of the trust and esteem in which Japanese shipyards are held. There is ample opportunity for continued growth and cooperation.
The process of building a ship is akin to the beauty of birth—a creative and collaborative journey, a true osmosis between builder and owner.
The delivery and naming ceremonies are particularly meaningful, rich in symbolism and tradition. They begin with the national anthems of both countries, followed by the central moment of the godmother naming the vessel and invoking divine protection for all who will sail on her.
The breaking of the champagne bottle, the ceremonial cutting of the rope, the presentation of flowers to the godmother, and the gathering of the captain, chief engineer, builders, and shipowners—all create a moment of shared pride and unity.
It is worth noting that all Greek companies that have historically built ships in Japan remain active to this day. This speaks to the strength and excellence of the Japanese shipbuilding product—a foundation upon which many have built their success.
I sincerely hope that the dynamic partnership between Greek shipowners and our esteemed Japanese friends and shipyards will continue to flourish with the same passion and dedication that has defined it for decades.
At this moment, I would like to thank the President of the Propeller Club Greece Mr C.Frangoulis and the Members of the Committee.
Your Excellency, dear friends, thank you once again for your presence and support.
ARIGATO GOZAIMASU,
John Inglessis
President Samos Steamship Co
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