Brokers report that a host of fresh supramax candidates are being circulated for sale, but few buyers are willing to delve into their wallets.

Owners who have put out over five supramaxes for sale last week include Turkey-based Mardeniz who has put seven ships up for sale. These ships however have been on and off for sale for a couple of years, notes one broker.

Other owners circulating supramaxes for sale include Germany's container specialist Hartmann, which has just laid its fleet of supramaxes up for sale. If sold this will mark an exit from the pure bulk carrier sector for the German owner.