Zhejiang-based Maple Leaf has sold the 32,400-dwt Maple Crystal and the Maple Amethyst (both built 2012) to the US-listed owner, it is claimed.

NewLead reported in mid March it had purchased a couple of handysize vessels, without revealing their identity.

Michael Zolotas, CEO of NewLead, said at the time: "We are pleased to bring into NewLead two more eco-type dry bulk Handysize vessels at a competitive price with an upside in market value, a 23 year employment lifetime.

NewLead