The U.S. Department of Transportation’s Maritime Administration (MARAD) announced $14.7 million in grant awards to help improve 17 small shipyards in 16 states.

Athens based Safe Bulkers, Inc., an international provider of marine drybulk transportation services, has entered into shipbuilding contracts for the construction of two bulkers. The vessels are to be built in China.

Star Bulk Carriers Corp., Athens, signed a contract with ship-builder Hanjin Heavy Industries to build a second Capesize vessel of 180,000 dwt, a sistership to the first vessel ordered, with expected delivery in November 2011. As per ship operator…