Greek shipowner Vulcanus Technical Maritime Enterprises has scored a significant profit on the sale of a supramax as asset values rise even for bulkers nearing their 20th year.

The company has sold the 53,000-dwt Melpomeni (built 2002) for $5.3m.

This represents a $1.9m gain on the purchase price in a well-timed February 2016 deal. That is when the company bought the ship for $3.4m