Ship Recycling
1,500+ vessels recycled. Full regulatory compliance. Best-price negotiation with approved yards worldwide.
What We Do
Optima's Ship Recycling desk manages the end-of-life process for commercial vessels, combining best-price negotiation with full regulatory compliance. We work with an approved network of recycling yards in Turkey, India, Bangladesh, and Pakistan, ensuring every transaction meets the standards set by the EU Ship Recycling Regulation, the Hong Kong Convention, and the Basel Convention.
Our team handles every stage of the process: market canvassing, yard selection, contract negotiation, regulatory documentation, Inventory of Hazardous Materials coordination, voyage planning to the recycling destination, and final settlement. The result is a clean, compliant disposal that maximizes the residual value of the vessel.
Whether you are recycling a single vessel or planning the phased disposal of an aging fleet, we provide independent advice on timing, market conditions, and regulatory requirements to help you make the right decision.
End of life, handled with dignity and rule.
Key Capabilities
BEST-PRICE NEGOTIATION
We canvass approved yards globally to secure the highest residual value for your vessel. Transparent bidding process with full market visibility.
REGULATORY COMPLIANCE
Full documentation and process management for EU SRR, Hong Kong Convention, and Basel Convention requirements. We ensure every transaction is clean.
IHM COORDINATION
Coordination of the Inventory of Hazardous Materials, required for all recycling transactions. We work with accredited IHM surveyors and maintain documentation to classification standards.
APPROVED YARD NETWORK
Vetted recycling facilities in Turkey, India, Bangladesh, and Pakistan. All yards meet EU List or equivalent safety and environmental standards.
LAST-VOYAGE PLANNING
Coordination of the vessel's final voyage including crewing, insurance, provisions, and port clearances to the recycling destination.
CONTRACT & SETTLEMENT
Negotiation of recycling contracts, payment terms, and settlement procedures. We manage the full commercial process from offer acceptance through final payment receipt.
Every vessel retired goes out the right way.
Track Record
A hull becomes the next thing built.
How We Work
INITIAL ASSESSMENT
Review the vessel's age, condition, flag state, and regulatory status. Advise on optimal timing based on current market conditions and scrap steel pricing.
IHM & DOCUMENTATION
Coordinate the preparation or update of the Inventory of Hazardous Materials. Compile all documentation required by the applicable regulatory framework.
MARKET CANVASSING
Solicit offers from approved recycling yards. Present a comparative analysis of bids covering price, payment terms, delivery location, and facility credentials.
CONTRACT NEGOTIATION
Negotiate the recycling contract on the client's behalf. Agree commercial terms including price per LDT, payment schedule, delivery conditions, and compliance obligations.
LAST VOYAGE & DELIVERY
Coordinate the vessel's final voyage including crewing, insurance, bunkers, and port clearances. Manage beaching or alongside delivery at the recycling facility.
SETTLEMENT & COMPLETION
Oversee the payment process. Confirm receipt of funds and completion of recycling in compliance with all contractual and regulatory requirements. Provide final documentation to the client.
Scale, compliance, dignity, on every contract.
The final shot of a working life.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the EU Ship Recycling Regulation and does it apply to my vessel?
The EU SRR requires that vessels flagged in EU member states be recycled at facilities on the European List of approved ship recycling facilities. It also mandates that all vessels calling at EU ports carry an up-to-date Inventory of Hazardous Materials. Even if your vessel is not EU-flagged, IHM compliance may be required for EU port access. We advise on applicability based on your specific flag and trading pattern.
How is the recycling price determined?
Recycling prices are quoted per Lightweight Displacement Tonnage (LDT) and fluctuate with global scrap steel markets, yard demand, and currency movements. We canvass multiple yards to ensure competitive pricing and present a transparent comparison of all offers received.
What is an Inventory of Hazardous Materials (IHM)?
The IHM is a documented inventory of all hazardous materials present onboard a vessel, including asbestos, heavy metals, and other regulated substances. It is required under both the EU SRR and the Hong Kong Convention. We coordinate the survey and documentation process with accredited IHM providers.
Does Optima work with yards outside the EU List?
We work with yards that meet recognized international standards. For EU-flagged vessels, the yard must be on the European List. For non-EU-flagged vessels, we select yards that comply with the Hong Kong Convention or equivalent national legislation. All yards in our network are vetted for safety and environmental standards.
How long does the recycling process take?
From the decision to recycle through final settlement, a typical project takes 30 to 90 days depending on IHM status, voyage distance, and yard scheduling. Vessels with a current IHM and favorable positioning can move faster. We provide a detailed timeline at the outset of each project.
Considering Recycling?
Get an independent assessment of your vessel's recycling value and a clear view of the regulatory requirements.
Contact Our Recycling Desk