Optima · Core Broking · Since 1981

Maritime Asset Valuations

Independent, BIMCO-certified vessel and fleet valuations trusted by the world's leading banks, insurers, and law firms.

Every maritime transaction of consequence -- sale, purchase, financing, litigation, insurance settlement -- rests on a single question: what is the vessel worth?

Optima's valuation desk delivers clear, defensible answers. We combine proprietary market data, real-time comparable analysis, and four decades of commercial expertise to produce valuations that withstand scrutiny from banks, courts, and regulators.

As an independent broker with no fleet ownership and no lending interests, our valuations serve a single purpose: accuracy.

Whether you need a desktop appraisal for a single vessel or a comprehensive portfolio assessment for an entire fleet, our methodology is transparent, our data is current, and our conclusions are built to hold up under cross-examination.

MacBook open on a polished concrete desk showing an abstract vessel comparison spreadsheet, matte navy portfolio behind it
The reference case

Every valuation grounded in comparable sales.

Comparison sheet · Desk

When You Need a Maritime Valuation

LOAN SECURITY

Banks and financial institutions require independent valuations to secure vessel-backed lending. We are approved by major shipping banks worldwide.

SALE & PURCHASE

Buyers and sellers need a reliable benchmark before entering negotiations. Our valuations establish fair market value backed by comparable transaction data.

LITIGATION & DISPUTES

Arbitration panels and courts demand valuations that are defensible under cross-examination. We have extensive experience as expert witnesses and valuation consultants.

INSURANCE PURPOSES

Accurate hull values are essential for policy placement, renewal, and claims settlement. We provide valuations accepted by underwriters and P&I clubs globally.

PORTFOLIO RISK ASSESSMENT

Fleet operators and investors need ongoing portfolio valuations to manage risk exposure, rebalance assets, and inform strategic decisions.

FINANCIAL REPORTING

Public and private companies require periodic asset valuations for balance sheet reporting, IFRS compliance, and investor disclosures.

Gloved hand sketching a depreciation curve on an iPad with an Apple Pencil, cobalt ink line on white canvas
Drawn by hand

Numbers have a shape, and the shape has reasons.

Depreciation curve · Live
Large 5K reference monitor mounted flush on a polished concrete wall, abstract vessel valuation chart in cobalt and teal
The evidence stays on record

Decades of sale data, readable in a glance.

Reference panel · Wall-mount
Anonymous figure in dark suit jacket at a floor-to-ceiling glass wall facing the Athens harbour at blue hour, tablet in hand
Reading the water

A valuation sits between the market and the vessel.

Analyst at glass · Athens harbour
Empty contemporary Athens advisory boardroom, brushed-steel table with a single iPad, glass wall to Acropolis in late-afternoon light
The room before judgment

A written valuation, defendable on both sides.

Boardroom · Before the opinion

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a BIMCO-certified ship valuation?

BIMCO (the Baltic and International Maritime Council) maintains a list of approved ship valuers who meet strict standards for independence, market access, and methodology. A BIMCO-certified valuation carries recognized authority and is accepted by banks, courts, and insurers worldwide. Optima Shipping Services is a BIMCO-approved valuer.

How long does a maritime asset valuation take?

A desktop valuation based on market comparables is typically delivered within 24 to 48 hours. A detailed valuation involving physical inspection and comprehensive technical review takes 5 to 7 business days depending on vessel location and access.

What vessel types do you value?

We value all commercial vessel types including bulk carriers, tankers, container ships, gas carriers, offshore vessels, and specialized tonnage. Our brokers have direct market access across all major shipping segments.

Can your valuations be used in legal proceedings?

Yes. Our valuations are regularly used in London arbitration, court proceedings, and dispute resolution. We have extensive experience providing expert witness testimony and producing valuations that meet evidentiary standards.

How do you account for environmental regulations in vessel valuations?

Environmental compliance is now a material factor in vessel value. We assess CII rating trajectory, EEXI compliance status, ballast water treatment installation, and emissions profile. Vessels that face regulatory constraints or require significant capital expenditure for compliance are valued accordingly.

Need a Valuation?

Whether it is a single vessel or an entire fleet, our team delivers independent, defensible valuations within your timeline.

Request a Valuation