Greek operator Vulcanus Technical Maritime Enterprises has made its first ship purchase in more than a year, continuing its drive towards Chinese-built supramaxes.

The Piraeus-based company has emerged as the buyer of the 53,300-dwt Santa Margherita (built 2005). The New Century-built ship was a rare bulker in the fleet of Hamburg's Stella Marine Services, which saw investors dispose of some of its tankers last year.