Boluda Shipping has signed an agreement to acquire all of Samskip, including all of its assets and operations, with the goal of building one of the most comprehensive short-sea shipping networks in Europe. The transaction, which is expected to close on January 1, 2027, is subject to approval by the relevant authorities and fulfillment of the agreed-upon conditions.
The integration will connect Northern Europe with the Iberian Peninsula, the Canary Islands, and West Africa, combining Boluda’s maritime and logistics capabilities with Samskip’s multimodal expertise and market presence in Northern Europe.
According to projections from both companies, the combined network will consist of 32 ships operating 18 routes and connecting markets in 28 countries. The infrastructure will include 21 maritime terminals, five rail terminals, and more than 500 company-owned trucks. It is also expected to handle an annual logistics volume exceeding 750,000 TEU, the unit equivalent to a 20-foot container.
“We have a clear vision: to lead the European short-sea shipping industry and make our network a competitive advantage for the companies that rely on us,” said Ignacio Boluda Ceballos, CEO of Boluda Shipping. The executive believes that combining the networks and capabilities of both companies will allow them to expand their connections and strengthen their presence in Europe and West Africa.
For his part, Ólafur Orri Ólafsson, CEO of Samskip, highlighted the shared values and long-term vision of both family-owned companies. As he explained, the integration will make it possible to expand the offerings to customers while maintaining the service standards and operational expertise of both organizations.
Rotterdam, a strategic location
The acquisition strengthens Boluda’s international expansion in Northern Europe, where the group already has an established presence through Boluda Towage, in the port towage business, and Boluda Shipping, in maritime transport and logistics. The opening of new offices in Rotterdam last June reinforced its commitment to this region.
The Dutch city is also one of Samskip’s main operational centers and will serve as a strategic hub for coordinating the services of the future joint network.
The operation will make it possible to integrate maritime, rail, and road transport into a broader logistics offering. In addition, combining these modes of transport can help reduce CO₂ emissions compared to transport carried out exclusively by road.
Boluda Shipping plans to invest in the combined network to strengthen its capacity and expand its connections. Throughout the integration process, the Samskip brand, its Icelandic roots, and its reputation in the markets where it operates will continue to be part of the company’s journey. Ólafur Orri Ólafsson will continue to play a key role in this new phase.
Until the transaction is completed, which is scheduled for January 1, 2027, both companies will continue to operate independently and remain focused on their customers, their teams, and the quality of their service.