SCHEDULE 14A
(Rule 14a-101)

INFORMATION REQUIRED IN PROXY STATEMENT

SCHEDULE 14A INFORMATION

Proxy Statement Pursuant to Section 14(a) of the
Securities Exchange Act of 1934 (Amendment No. )

Filed by the Registrant x
Filed by a Party other than the Registrant o

Check the appropriate box:

x
Preliminary Proxy Statement
o
Confidential, For Use of the Commission Only (as permitted by Rule 14a-6(e)(2))
o
Definitive Proxy Statement
o
Definitive Additional Materials
o
Soliciting Material Under Rule 14a-12

STAR MARITIME ACQUISITION CORP.

(Name of Registrant as Specified In Its Charter)



(Name of Person(s) Filing Proxy Statement, if Other Than the Registrant)

Payment of Filing Fee (Check the appropriate box):

o
No fee required.
x
Fee computed on table below per Exchange Act Rules 14a-6(i)(4) and 0-11.

1)
Title of each class of securities to which transaction applies:

Common Stock of Star Bulk Carriers Corp.
Warrants of Star Bulk Carriers Corp.

2)
Aggregate number of securities to which transaction applies:

29,026,924 shares of Common Stock of Star Bulk Carriers Corp. received in merger
20,000,000 Warrants of Star Bulk Carriers Corp. received in merger
20,000,000 shares of Common Stock of Star Bulk Carriers Corp. to be issued upon exercise of Warrants

3)
Per unit price or other underlying value of transaction computed pursuant to Exchange Act Rule 0-11 (set forth the amount on which the filing fee is calculated and state how it was determined):

Common Stock of Star Bulk Carriers Corp. received in merger: $9.97/share
Warrant of Star Bulk Carriers Corp.: $1.69/warrant
Common Stock of Star Bulk Carriers Corp. issued upon conversion of warrant: $8.00/share (based on conversion price)

4)
Proposed maximum aggregate value of transaction:

$483,198,432.28

5)
Total fee paid:

$14,834.19

o
Fee paid previously with preliminary materials:
o
Check box if any part of the fee is offset as provided by Exchange Act Rule 0-11(a)(2) and identify the filing for which the offsetting fee was paid previously. Identify the previous filing by registration statement number, or the form or schedule and the date of its filing.

1)
Amount previously paid:

 

2)
Form, Schedule or Registration Statement No.:

 

3)
Filing Party:

 

4)
Date Filed:

 

 

The information in this prospectus is not complete and may be changed. We may not sell these securities until the Securities and Exchange Commission declares our registration statement effective. This prospectus is not an offer to sell these securities and is not soliciting an offer to buy these securities in any state where the offer or sale is not permitted.
 
SUBJECT TO COMPLETION DATED MARCH 14, 2007

PROXY STATEMENT FOR SPECIAL MEETING OF STOCKHOLDERS OF STAR MARITIME ACQUISITIONN CORP. 
AND PROSPECTUS FOR SHARES OF COMMON STOCK AND WARRANTS OF STAR BULK CARRIERS CORP.
 
 
Joint Proxy Statement/Prospectus dated                 , 2007
and first mailed to stockholders on or about                  , 2007
 
Dear Star Maritime Stockholders:
 
You are cordially invited to attend a special meeting of the stockholders of Star Maritime Acquisition Corp., a Delaware corporation, or Star Maritime, relating to the merger of Star Maritime with and into its wholly-owned subsidiary, Star Bulk Carriers Corp., a corporation organized under the laws of the Republic of the Marshall Islands, or Star Bulk, with Star Bulk as the surviving corporation. Star Bulk has entered into definitive agreements to acquire a fleet of eight drybulk carriers from certain wholly-owned subsidiaries of TMT Co., Ltd., or TMT, a global shipping company with management headquarters in Taiwan. We refer to the merger of Star Maritime with and into Star Bulk, with Star Bulk as the surviving corporation, as the Redomiciliation Merger. Star Bulk's acquisition of the eight drybulk carriers from TMT is contingent upon the approval and consummation of the Redomiciliation Merger. Star Maritime has also entered into related agreements with TMT in connection with the acquisition of the vessels. Following the Redomiciliation Merger, Star Maritime will be merged out of existence and Star Bulk will be governed by the laws of the Republic of the Marshall Islands and, pursuant to separate definitive agreements, Star Bulk will acquire the vessels in its initial fleet from wholly-owned subsidiaries of TMT for an aggregate purchase price of $345,237,520, consisting of $224,500,000 in cash and 12,537,645 shares of common stock of Star Bulk. The board of directors of Star Maritime has unanimously approved the Redomiciliation Merger.
 
Pursuant to the Agreement and Plan of Merger by and between Star Maritime and Star Bulk, or the Merger Agreement, each outstanding share of Star Maritime common stock, par value $0.0001 per share, will be converted into the right to receive one share of Star Bulk common stock, par value $0.01 per share, and each outstanding warrant of Star Maritime will be assumed by Star Bulk with the same terms and restrictions except that each will be exercisable for common stock of Star Bulk. Star Bulk will apply to have its common stock and warrants listed on the Nasdaq Global Market under the symbols “SBLK” and “SBLKW” respectively.
 
Star Maritime was organized under the law of the State of Delaware on May 13, 2005 and is a Business Combination Company, or BCC™, which is a blank check company formed to acquire, through a merger, capital stock exchange, asset acquisition or similar business combination, one or more businesses in the shipping industry. Following our formation, our officers and directors were the holders of 9,026,924 shares of common stock representing all of our then issued and outstanding capital stock. On December 21, 2005, we consummated our initial public offering of 18,867,500 units, which we refer to as the Initial Public Offering, with each unit consisting of one share of Star Maritime common stock and one warrant to purchase one share of Star Maritime common stock. In addition, we completed a private placement of an aggregate of 1,132,500 units, which we refer to as the Private Placement, to Messrs. Tsirigakis and Syllantavos, our senior executive officers and Messrs. Pappas and Erhardt, two of our directors. The gross proceeds of the Private Placement of $11,325,500 were used to pay all fees and expenses of the Initial Public Offering. As a result, the entire gross proceeds of the Initial Public Offering of $188,675,000 were deposited in a trust account maintained by American Stock Transfer & Trust Company, as trustee, which we refer to as the Trust Account.
 
If we do not complete the Redomiciliation Merger or another business combination transaction by December 21, 2007, Star Maritime will be liquidated and we will distribute to all of the holders of our shares issued in our Initial Public Offering in proportion to their respective equity interests, an aggregate sum equal to the amount in the Trust Account, including any interest (net of any taxes payable) not previously released to us, plus any remaining net assets. Our officers and directors have waived their respective rights to participate in any liquidation distribution with respect to the 9,026,924 shares of common stock issued to them prior to our Initial Public Offering and with respect to the 1,132,500 shares of common stock acquired by certain of our officers and directors in the Private Placement should we fail to consummate a business combination transaction. In the event of our liquidation, we would not distribute funds from the Trust Account with respect to the Star Maritime warrants, which would expire.
 

 
Holders of shares of Star Maritime common stock have the right to redeem such shares for cash if such stockholder votes against the Redomiciliation Merger and, at the same time, elects that Star Maritime redeem such shares for cash and the Redomiciliation Merger is approved and completed. The actual redemption price will be equal to $10.21 per share, based on funds in the Trust Account as of December 31, 2006. In order to exercise redemption rights, an eligible stockholder must vote against the Redomiciliation Merger and elect to exercise redemption rights on the enclosed proxy card. If a stockholder votes against the Redomiciliation Merger but fails to properly exercise redemption rights, such stockholder will not be entitled to have its shares redeemed for cash. Any request for redemption, once made, may be withdrawn at any time up to the date of the Star Maritime special meeting.
 
Your vote is very important. Star Maritime cannot complete the Redomiciliation Merger unless (1) the holders of at least a majority of the issued and outstanding shares of Star Maritime entitled to vote at the special meeting vote in favor of the Redomciliation Merger; (2) holders of at least a majority of the shares of common stock issued in the Initial Public Offering and the Private Placement vote in favor of the Redomiciliation Merger; and (3) holders of less than 6,600,000 shares of common stock, such number representing 33.0% of the 20,000,000 shares of Star Maritime common stock issued in the Initial Public Offering and Private Placement, vote against the Redomiciliation Merger and exercise their redemption rights to have their shares redeemed for cash. Messrs. Tsirigakis and Syllantavos, our senior executive officers, and Messrs. Pappas and Erhardt, two of our directors, have agreed to vote an aggregate of 1,132,500 shares of Star Maritime common stock acquired by them in the Private Placement and any shares of Star Maritime common stock they may acquire in the future in favor of the Redomiciliation Merger and thereby waived redemption rights with respect to such shares. All of Star Maritime’s officers and directors have agreed to vote an aggregate of 9,026,924 shares of Star Maritime common stock issed to them prior to Star Maritime's Initial Public Offering and Private Placement in accordance with the vote of the holders of a majority of the shares issued in Star Maritime’s Initial Public Offering and Private Placement. Following the effective date of the Redomiciliation Merger, TMT and its affiliates are expected to own between 30.2% and 35.9% of the outstanding common stock of Star Bulk, depending on the number of shares redeemed for cash.
 
Whether or not you plan to attend the Star Maritime special meeting in person, please submit your proxy card without delay. You may revoke your proxy at any time before it is voted at the meeting. Voting by proxy will not prevent you from voting your shares in person if you subsequently choose to attend the Star Maritime special meeting. The joint proxy statement/prospectus constitutes a proxy statement of Star Maritime and a prospectus of Star Bulk for shares of common stock that Star Bulk will issue to stockholders of Star Maritime and to TMT in respect of the stock consideration portion of the aggregate purchase price of the vessels in the initial fleet.
 
Holders of Star Maritime stock will not be entitled to any appraisal rights under the Delaware General Corporation Law in connection with the Redomiciliation Merger.
 
The proposed Redomiciliation Merger and Star Bulk's acquisition of eight vessels from TMT is more fully described in this joint proxy statement/prospectus.
 
The place, date and time of the Star Maritime special meeting is as follows:                 , New York, New York, on                  , 2007 at 10:00 a.m.
 
We encourage you to read this joint proxy statement/prospectus carefully. In particular, you should review the matters discussed under the caption “RISK FACTORS” beginning on page 21.
 
Star Maritime’s board of directors unanimously recommends that Star Maritime stockholders vote “FOR” approval of the Redomiciliation Merger.
     
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Prokopios (Akis) Tsirigakis
Chairman of the Board of Directors of Star Maritime Acquisition Corp.
Wilmington, Delaware
                , 2007
 
Neither the Securities and Exchange Commission nor any state securities commission has approved or disapproved of the securities to be issued in the merger or otherwise, or passed upon the adequacy or accuracy of this joint proxy statement/prospectus. Any representation to the contrary is a criminal offense.
 

 
STAR MARITIME ACQUISITION CORP.
103 Foulk Road
Wilmington, Delaware 19803
 
Notice of Special Meeting of Star Maritime Acquisition Corp. Stockholders
To Be Held on                    , 2007
 
To Star Maritime Stockholders:
 
A special meeting of stockholders of Star Maritime Acquisition Corp., a Delaware corporation, or Star Martime, will be held at                       , New York, New York on             , 2007, at 10:00 a.m., for the following purposes:
 
1. To consider and vote upon a proposal to approve and authorize the merger, which we refer to as the Redomiciliation Merger, pursuant to the Agreement and Plan of Merger, dated March 14, 2007, by and between Star Maritime and its wholly-owned Marshall Islands subsidiary, Star Bulk Carriers Corp., or Star Bulk, whereby Star Maritime will merge with and into Star Bulk, with Star Bulk as the surviving corporation. Star Bulk has entered into definitive agreements to acquire a fleet of eight drybulk carriers from certain wholly-owned subsidiaries of TMT Co., Ltd., or TMT, for an aggregate purchase price of $345,237,520, consisting of $224,500,000 in cash and 12,537,645 shares of common stock of Star Bulk. The acquisition of the eight drybulk carriers from TMT is contingent upon the approval and consummation of the Redomiciliation Merger. Star Maritime has also entered into related agreements with TMT in connection with the acquisition of the vessels. As a result of the Redomiciliation Merger: (i) the separate corporate existence of Star Maritime will cease; (ii) each share of Star Maritime common stock, par value $0.0001 per share, will be converted into the right to receive one share of Star Bulk common stock, par value $0.01 per share; and (iii) each outstanding warrant of Star Maritime will be assumed by Star Bulk with the same terms and restrictions, except that each will be exerciseable for common stock of Star Bulk, all as more particularly described in the joint proxy statement/prospectus; and
 
2. To transact such other business as may properly come before the special meeting.
 
As of March 9, 2007, there were 29,026,924 shares of Star Maritime common stock issued and outstanding and entitled to vote. Only Star Maritime stockholders who hold shares of record as of the close of business on               , 2007 are entitled to vote at the special meeting or any adjournment or postponement of the special meeting. Star Maritime cannot complete the Redomiciliation Merger unless: (1) the holders of at least a majority of the issued and outstanding shares of Star Maritime entitled to vote at the special meeting vote in favor of the Redomciliation Merger; (2) holders of at least a majority of the shares of common stock issued in the Initial Public Offering and the Private Placement vote in favor of the Redomiciliation Merger; and (3) holders of less than 6,600,000 shares of common stock, such number representing 33.0% of the 20,000,000 shares of Star Maritime common stock issued in the Initial Public Offering and Private Placement, vote against the Redomiciliation Merger and exercise their redemption rights to have their shares redeemed for cash. Holders of shares of Star Maritime common stock have the right to redeem such shares for cash if such stockholder votes against the Redomiciliation Merger and, at the same time, demands that Star Maritime redeem such shares for cash and the Redomiciliation Merger is approved and completed. The actual redemption price will be equal to $10.21 per share, based on funds in the Trust Account as of December 31, 2006. In order to exercise redemption rights, an eligible stockholder must vote against the Redomiciliation Merger and elect to exercise redemption rights on the enclosed proxy card. If a stockholder votes against the Redomiciliation Merger but fails to properly exercise redemption rights, such stockholder will not be entitled to have its shares redeemed for cash. Any request for redemption, once made, may be withdrawn at any time up to the date of the special meeting.
 
Holders of Star Maritime's stock will not be entitled to any appraisal rights under the Delaware General Corporation Law in connection with the Redomiciliation Merger.
 
Messrs. Tsirigakis and Syllantavos, our senior executive officers, and Messrs. Pappas and Erhardt, two of our directors, have agreed to vote an aggregate of 1,132,500 shares, or 3.9% of Star Maritime’s outstanding common stock, acquired by them in Star Maritime's Private Placement and any shares of Star Maritime common stock they may acquire in the future in favor of the Redomiciliation Merger and thereby waive redemption rights with respect to such shares. All of Star Maritime’s officers and directors have agreed to vote an aggregate of 9,026,924 shares, or 31.1% of Star Maritime’s outstanding common stock, issued to them prior to Star Maritime's Initial Public Offering and Private Placement in accordance with the vote of the holders of a majority of the shares issued in Star Maritime’s Initial Public Offering.
 

 
Whether or not you plan to attend the special meeting in person, please submit your proxy card without delay. A vote in favor of the Redomiciliation Merger is, in effect, a vote in favor of Star Bulks acquisition of the vessels from TMT. Voting by proxy will not prevent you from voting your shares in person if you subsequently choose to attend the special meeting. If you fail to return your proxy card, the effect will be that your shares will not be counted for purposes of determining whether a quorum is present at the special meeting and will have the same effect as a vote “against” the approval and authorization of the Redomiciliation Merger. You may revoke a proxy at any time before it is voted at the special meeting by executing and returning a proxy card dated later than the previous one, by attending the special meeting in person and casting your vote by ballot or by submitting a written revocation to Star Maritime at 103 Foulk Road, Wilmington, Delaware 19803, Attention: Corporate Secretary, before we take the vote at the special meeting. If you hold your shares through a bank or brokerage firm, you should follow the instructions of your bank or brokerage firm regarding revocation of proxies.
 
Star Maritime’s board of directors unanimously recommends that Star Maritime stockholders vote “FOR” approval of the Redomiciliation Merger.
 
    By order of the Board of Directors,
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Prokopios (Akis) Tsirigakis
Chairman of the Board of Directors of Star Maritime Acquisition Corp.
Wilmington, Delaware
                    , 2007
 
 


TABLE OF CONTENTS

QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS ABOUT THE STAR MARITIME SPECIAL MEETING
 
1
HOW TO OBTAIN ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
 
6
SUMMARY
 
7
SUMMARY FINANCIAL INFORMATION
 
14
MARKET PRICE AND DIVIDEND INFORMATION
 
20
RISK FACTORS
 
21
FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS
 
34
THE STAR MARITIME SPECIAL MEETING
 
35
BACKGROUND AND REASONS FOR THE REDOMICILIATION MERGER
 
38
THE ACQUISITION AGREEMENTS
 
45
ACQUISITION FINANCING
 
49
THE MERGER AGREEMENT
 
50
INFORMATION CONCERNING STAR MARITIME ACQUISITION CORP.
 
53
SELECTED FINANCIAL INFORMATION OF STAR MARITIME ACQUISITION CORP.
 
57
MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATION OF STAR MARITIME ACQUISITION CORP.
 
61
INFORMATION CONCERNING STAR BULK CARRIERS CORP.
 
64
SELECTED FINANCIAL INFORMATION OF STAR BULK CARRIERS CORP.
 
77
MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS OF STAR BULK CARRIERS CORP.
 
78
THE INTERNATIONAL DRY BULK SHIPPING INDUSTRY  
83
DIVIDEND POLICY OF STAR BULK
 
95
STAR BULK’S FORECASTED CASH AVAILABLE FOR DIVIDENDS, RESERVES AND EXTRAORDINARY EXPENSES
 
96
CAPITALIZATION OF STAR MARITIME
 
100
DILUTION
 
101
RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS
 
102
DESCRIPTION OF STAR MARITIME SECURITIES
 
104
DESCRIPTION OF STAR BULK SECURITIES
 
107
COMPARISON OF STAR MARITIME AND STAR BULK STOCKHOLDER RIGHTS
 
108
COMPARISON OF MARSHALL ISLANDS CORPORATE LAW TO DELAWARE CORPORATE LAW
 
115
TAX CONSIDERATIONS
 
118
EXPERTS
 
127
LEGAL MATTERS
 
127
STOCKHOLDER PROPOSALS AND OTHER MATTERS
 
127
INDUSTRY AND MARKET DATA
 
128
WHERE YOU CAN FIND ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
 
128
ENFORCEABILITY OF CIVIL LIABILITIES
 
128
GLOSSARY OF SHIPPING TERMS
 
130
INDEX TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
 
F-1
 
i

 
Appendix A
Memorandum of Agreement relating to the A Duckling dated January 12, 2007 between Star Bulk Carriers Corp., as buyer, and A Duckling Corporation, as seller.
   
Appendix B
Memorandum of Agreement relating to the B Duckling dated January 12, 2007 between Star Bulk Carriers Corp., as buyer, and B Duckling Corporation, as seller.
   
Appendix C
Memorandum of Agreement relating to the C Duckling dated January 12, 2007 between Star Bulk Carriers Corp., as buyer, and C Duckling Corporation, as seller.
   
Appendix D
Memorandum of Agreement relating to the F Duckling dated January 12, 2007 between Star Bulk Carriers Corp., as buyer, and F Duckling Corporation, as seller.
   
Appendix E
Memorandum of Agreement relating to the G Duckling dated January 12, 2007 between Star Bulk Carriers Corp., as buyer, and G Duckling Corporation, as seller.
   
Appendix F
Memorandum of Agreement relating to the I Duckling dated January 12, 2007 between Star Bulk Carriers Corp., as buyer, and I Duckling Corporation, as seller.
   
Appendix G
Memorandum of Agreement relating to the J Duckling dated January 12, 2007 between Star Bulk Carriers Corp., as buyer, and J Duckling Corporation, as seller.
   
Appendix H
Memorandum of Agreement relating to the Mommy Duckling dated January 12, 2007 between Star Bulk Carriers Corp., as buyer, and Mommy Duckling Corporation, as seller.
   
Appendix I
Supplemental Agreement, dated January 12, 2007.
   
Appendix J
Master Agreement, dated January 12, 2007.
   
Appendix K
Agreement and Plan of Merger by and between Star Maritime Acquisition Corp. and Star Bulk Carriers Corp.
   
Appendix L
Form of Proxy.
 
 
ii

 
QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS ABOUT THE STAR MARITIME SPECIAL MEETING
 
Q:
What is the purpose of this document?
 
A:
This document serves as Star Maritime’s proxy statement and as the prospectus of Star Bulk. As a proxy statement, this document is being provided to Star Maritime stockholders because the Star Maritime board of directors is soliciting their proxies to vote to approve, at a special meeting of stockholders, the merger of Star Maritime with and into its wholly-owned Marshall Islands subsidiary, Star Bulk, with Star Bulk as the surviving corporation. Star Bulk has entered into definitive agreements to acquire a fleet of eight drybulk carriers from certain subsidiaries of TMT for an aggregate purchase price of $345,237,520, consisting of $224,500,000 in cash and 12,537,645 shares of common stock. As a prospectus, Star Bulk is providing this document to Star Maritime stockholders because Star Bulk is offering its shares in exchange for shares of Star Maritime common stock and Star Bulk is assuming the outstanding warrants of Star Maritime in the Redomiciliation Merger. The registration statement on Form F-1/F-4 of which this joint proxy statement/prospectus is a part is being filed by Star Bulk to register the shares being offered in exchange for shares of Star Maritime, the 20,000,000 warrants of Star Maritime that will be assumed by Star Bulk, the 20,000,000 shares of Star Bulk common stock issuable upon exercise of such warrants and to register up to 14,144,607 shares of common stock that Star Bulk will issue to TMT or subsequently to TMT's affiliates in respect of the stock consideration portion of the aggregate purchase price of the vessels in the initial fleet. The shares of common stock that Star Bulk will issue in exchange for shares of Star Maritime are referred to herein as the Merger Consideration.
 
Q:
What matters will we be asked to vote on at the Star Maritime special meeting?
 
A:
There is one proposal on which you are being asked to vote. At the special meeting, you will be asked to consider and vote upon a proposal to approve and authorize the merger of Star Maritime with and into its wholly-owned Marshall Islands subsidiary, Star Bulk, with Star Bulk as the surviving corporation. Star Bulk has entered into definitive agreements to acquire a fleet of eight drybulk carriers from certain wholly-owned subsidiaries of TMT for an aggregate purchase price of $345,237,520, consisting of $224,500,000 in cash and 12,537,645 shares of common stock of Star Bulk. As a result of the Redomiciliation Merger (i) the separate corporate existance of  Star Maritime will cease; (ii) each outstanding share of Star Maritime common stock, par value $0.0001 per share, will be converted into the right to receive one share of Star Bulk common stock, par value $0.01 per share; and (ii) each outstanding warrant of Star Maritime will be assumed by Star Bulk with the same terms and restrictions, except that each will be exercisable for common stock of Star Bulk.
 
Q:
Could you tell me more about the definitive agreements to acquire the vessels?
 
A:
Star Bulk will acquire the fleet of eight drybulk carriers pursuant to separate memoranda of agreement, which we collectively refer to as the MOAs, by and between Star Bulk and the vessel-owning subsidiaries of TMT, each as supplemented by a Supplemental Agreement by and among Star Maritime, Star Bulk and TMT, and a Master Agreement by and among Star Maritime, Star Bulk and TMT. We refer to the MOAs, the Supplemental Agreement and the Master Agreement collectively as the Acquisition Agreements. The acquisition of the vessels by Star Bulk is contingent upon, among other things, the approval and consummation of the Redomiciliation Merger. Copies of the MOAs are attached to this joint proxy statement/prospectus as Appendices A-H. A copy of the Supplemental Agreement is attached to this joint proxy statement/prospectus as Appendix I. A copy of the Master Agreement is attached to this joint proxy statement/prospectus as Appendix J.
 
Q:
Could you tell me more about the parties to the Acquisition Agreements?
 
A:
Star Maritime was organized under the laws of the State of Delaware on May 13, 2005 and is a Business Combination Company, or BCC™, which is a blank check company formed to acquire, through a merger, capital stock exchange, asset acquisition or similar business combination, one or more target businesses in the shipping industry. A target business includes one or more entities with agreements to acquire vessels or an operating business in the shipping industry. Following our formation, our officers and directors were the holders of 9,026,924 shares of common stock representing all of our then issued and outstanding capital stock. On December 21, 2005, we consummated our initial public offering of 18,867,500 units, at a price of $10.00 per unit, which we refer to as the Initial Public Offering, each unit consisting of one share of Star Maritime common stock and one warrant to purchase one share of Star Maritime common stock. In addition, we completed a private placement of an aggregate of 1,132,500 units, which we refer to as the Private Placement, to Messrs. Tsirigakis and Syllantavos, our senior executive officers and Messrs. Pappas and Erhardt, two of our directors. The gross proceeds of the Private Placement of $11,325,500 were used to pay all fees and expenses of the Initial Public Offering. As a result, the entire gross proceeds of the Initial Public Offering of $188,675,000 were deposited in a trust account maintained by American Stock Transfer & Trust Company, as trustee, which we refer to as the Trust Account. If we do not complete the Redomiciliation Merger or another business combination transaction with a target business by December 21, 2007, we will be liquidated and we will distribute to all holders of our shares issued in the Initial Public Offering in proportion to their respective equity interests, an aggregate sum equal to the amount in the Trust Account, including any interest (net of any taxes payable) not previously released to us, plus any remaining net assets. Our officers and directors have agreed to waive their respective rights to participate in any liquidation distribution should we fail to consummate a business combination transaction with respect to the aggregate of 9,026,924 shares of common stock issued to them prior to our Initial Public Offering and with respect to the aggregate of 1,132,500 shares of common stock acquired by certain of our officers and directors in the Private Placement. In the event of our liquidation, we would not distribute funds from the Trust Account with respect to the Star Maritime warrants, which would expire worthless.
 
1

 
Star Bulk is a recently formed wholly-owned Marshall Islands subsidiary of Star Maritime and is headquartered in Athens, Greece. Pursuant to the Acquisition Agreements, following the Redomiciliation Merger, Star Bulk will acquire a fleet of eight drybulk carriers from certain subsidiaries of TMT for an aggregate purchase price of $345,237,520, consisting of $224,500,000 in cash and 12,537,645 shares of common stock. Following the effective date of the Redomiciliation Merger, TMT and its affiliates are expected to own between 30.2% and 35.9% of the outstanding common stock of Star Bulk, depending on the number of shares of Star Martime common stock redeemed for cash. See “Description of Star Maritime Securities - Common Stock.” Star Bulk intends to apply to have its shares of common stock and warrants listed on the Nasdaq Global Market under the symbols “SBLK” and “SBLKW” respectively.
 
 
TMT is a global shipping company with its management headquarters located in Taiwan. TMT has approximately 50 years of experience in the shipping industry. TMT owns and/or operates or invests in vessels in several shipping sectors, including crude oil tankers, drybulk carriers and liquified natural gas, or LNG, carriers.
 
Q:
When and where is the special meeting of Star Maritime stockholders?
 
A:
The special meeting of Star Maritime stockholders will take place at              , New York, New York, on                       , 2007, at 10:00 a.m.
 
Q:
Who may vote at the special meeting?
 
A:
Only holders of record of shares of Star Maritime common stock as of the close of business on                 , 2007 may vote at the special meeting. As of March 9, 2007, there were 29,026,924 shares of Star Maritime common stock outstanding and entitled to vote.
 
Q:
What is the required vote to approve and authorize the Redomiciliation Merger?
 
The Delaware General Corporation Law requires that the Redomiciliation Merger must be approved by the holders of a majority of the issued and outstanding shares of common stock of Star Maritime.
 
In addition, the Redomiciliation Merger must be approved by the holders of at least a majority of the shares of common stock issued in the Initial Public Offering and the Private Placement, or 10,000,001 shares. Star Maritime may not complete a business combination if the holders of 33% or more of the shares of common stock issued in the Initial Public Offering and the Private Placement request redemption rights in connection with the transaction. A vote in favor of the Redomiciliation Merger is, in effect, a vote in favor of Star Bulk's acquisition of the vessels from TMT.
 
Messrs. Tsirigakis and Syllantavos, our senior executive officers, and Messrs. Pappas and Erhardt, two of our directors, have agreed to vote an aggregate of 1,132,500 shares of Star Maritime common stock acquired by them in the Private Placement and any shares of Star Maritime common stock they may acquire in the future in favor of the Redomiciliation Merger and thereby waive redemption rights with respect to such shares. All of Star Maritime’s officers and directors have agreed to vote an aggregate of 9,026,924 shares of Star Maritime common stock issued to them prior to our Initial Public Offering in accordance with the vote of the holders of a majority of the shares issued in our Initial Public Offering. Our officers and directors have agreed to waive their respective rights to participate in any liquidation distribution should we fail to consummate a business combination transaction with respect to the aggregate of 9,026,924 shares of common stock issued to them prior to our Initial Public Offering and with respect to the aggregate of 1,132,500 shares of common stock acquired by certain of our officers and directors in the Private Placement. 
 
2


Star Maritime will not be able to complete the Redomiciliation Merger unless (1) the holders of at least a majority of the issued and outstanding shares of Star Maritime entitled to vote at the special meeting vote in favor of the Redomiciliation Merger; (2) holders of at least 10,000,001 shares of common stock issued in the Initial Public Offering and the Private Placement vote in favor of the Redomiciliation Merger; and (3) holders of less than 6,600,000 shares of common stock, such number representing 33.0% of the 20,000,000 shares of Star Maritime common stock issued in the Initial Public Offering and Private Placement, vote against the Redomiciliation Merger and exercise their redemption rights to have their shares redeemed for cash. In order to exercise redemption rights, an eligible stockholder must vote against the Redomiciliation Merger and elect to exercise redemption rights on the enclosed proxy card. If a stockholder votes against the Redomiciliation Merger but fails to properly exercise redemption rights, such stockholder will not be entitled to have its shares redeemed for cash. Any request for redemption, once made, may be withdrawn at any time up to the date of the special meeting. The actual redemption price will be equal to $10.21 per share, based on funds in the Trust Account as of December 31, 2006.
 
Q:
Has the board of directors of Star Maritime recommended approval of the Redomiciliation Merger?
 
A:
Yes. Star Maritime’s board of directors has unanimously recommended to its stockholders that they vote “FOR” the approval and authorization of the Redomiciliation Merger at the special meeting. For various shipping regulatory and tax reasons, the Republic of the Marshall Islands is an attractive country of incorporation for international shipping companies. The merger of Star Maritime with and into Star Bulk with Star Bulk as the surviving corporation will enable Star Bulk, which will be an operating company, to benefit from such advantages. Please read “Background and Reasons for the Merger—Recommendations of the Board of Directors” for a discussion of the factors that the Star Maritime’s board of directors considered in deciding to recommend the approval and authorization of the Redomiciliation Merger.
 
Q:
What will I receive in the Redomiciliation Merger?
 
A:
Pursuant to the Merger Agreement, each outstanding share of Star Maritime common stock will be converted into the right to receive one share of Star Bulk common stock and each outstanding warrant of Star Maritime will be assumed by Star Bulk and contain the same terms and restrictions except that each will be exercisable for common stock of Star Bulk.
 
Q:
What are the tax consequences of the Redomiciliation Merger to me?

A.
A holder of Star Maritime stock or warrants should not recognize any taxable gain or loss as a result of the Redomiciliation Merger. The Redomiciliation Merger has been structured so that upon completion of the Redomiciliation Merger and issuance of Star Bulk shares to TMT, the stockholders of Star Maritime will own less than 80% of Star Bulk. Therefore, Star Bulk intends to take the position on its U.S. federal income tax return that it is not subject to Section 7874(b) of the U.S. Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended, or the Code, after the Redomiciliation Merger and therefore should not be subject to U.S. federal income tax as a U.S. domestic corporation on its worldwide income after the Redomiciliation Merger. However, Star Maritime has not sought a ruling from the U.S. Internal Revenue Service, or the IRS, on this point. Therefore, there is no assurance that the IRS would not seek to assert that Star Bulk is subject to U.S. federal income tax on its worldwide income after the Redomiciliation Merger, although Star Maritime believes that such an assertion would not be successful.
 
3

 
Even if Section 7874(b) of the Code does not apply to a transaction, Section 7874(a) of the Code, or Section 7874(a), provides that where a corporation organized outside the United States acquires substantially all of the assets of a corporation organized in the United States, the corporation whose assets are being acquired will be subject to U.S. federal income tax on its “inversion gain” if stockholders of the U.S. corporation whose assets are being acquired own at least 60 percent of the non-U.S. acquiring corporation after the acquisition. “Inversion gain” includes any gain from the transfer of the properties by the corporation organized in the United States to the corporation organized outside the United States as well as certain licensing income. See “Tax Considerations.”
 
Q:
What if I object to the Redomiciliation Merger?
 
A:
Under Star Maritime’s Certificate of Incorporation, holders of shares of Star Maritime common stock have the right to redeem such shares for cash if such stockholder votes against the Redomiciliation Merger, elects to exercise redemption rights and the Redomiciliation Merger is approved and completed. In order to exercise redemption rights, an eligible stockholder must vote against the Redomiciliation Merger and elect to exercise redemption rights on the enclosed proxy card. If a stockholder votes against the Redomiciliation Merger but fails to properly exercise redemption rights, such stockholder will not be entitled to have its shares redeemed for cash. Stockholders exercising redemption rights will be entitled to receive, for each share of common stock redeemed, the pro rata portion of the Trust Account in which the proceeds of the Company’s Initial Public Offering are held, plus interest earned thereon (net of taxes). The actual redemption price will be equal to $10.21 per share, based on funds in the Trust Account as of December 31, 2006. If you exercise your redemption rights, then you will be exchanging your shares of Star Maritime’s common stock for cash and will no longer own these shares. You will only be entitled to receive cash for these shares if you continue to hold these shares through the effective date of the Redomiciliation Merger and then tender your stock certificate to Star Maritime. If the Redomiciliation Merger is not completed, then these shares will not be redeemed for cash. A stockholder who exercises redemption rights will continue to own any warrants to acquire Star Maritime common stock owned by such stockholder as such warrants will remain outstanding and unaffected by the exercise of redemption rights. See “Description of Star Maritime Securities—Common Stock.”
 
Q:
How can I vote?
 
A:
Please vote your shares of Star Maritime common stock as soon as possible after carefully reading and considering the information contained in this joint proxy statement/prospectus. You may vote your shares prior to the special meeting by signing and returning the enclosed proxy card. If you hold your shares in “street name” (which means, in other words, that you hold your shares through a bank, brokerage firm or nominee), you must vote in accordance with the instructions on the voting instruction card that your bank, brokerage firm or nominee provides to you.
 
Q:
If my shares are held in “street name” by my bank, brokerage firm or nominee, will they automatically vote my shares for me?
 
A:
No. Your bank, brokerage firm or nominee cannot vote your shares without instructions from you. You should instruct your bank, brokerage firm or nominee how to vote your shares, following the instructions contained in the voting instruction card that your bank, brokerage firm or nominee provides to you.
 
Q:
What if I abstain from voting or fail to instruct my bank, brokerage firm or nominee?
 
A:
Abstaining from voting or failing to instruct your bank, brokerage firm or nominee to vote your shares will have the same effect as a vote “against” the Redomiciliation Merger.
 
Q:
Can I change my vote after I have mailed my proxy card?
 
A:
Yes. You may change your vote at any time before your proxy is voted at the special meeting. You may revoke your proxy by executing and returning a proxy card dated later than the previous one, by attending the special meeting in person and casting your vote by ballot or by submitting a written revocation stating that you would like to revoke your proxy. If you hold your shares through a bank, brokerage firm or nominee, you should follow the instructions of your bank, brokerage firm or nominee regarding the revocation of proxies. You should send any notice of revocation or your completed new proxy card, as the case may be, to:
 
Star Maritime Acquisition Corp.
103 Foulk Road
Wilmington, Delaware 19803
Attention: Corporate Secretary
 
4

 
Q:
Should I send in my stock certificates now?
 
A:
No. After we complete the Redomiciliation Merger, you will receive written instructions for returning your stock certificates. These instructions will tell you how and where to send in your stock certificates in order to receive the Merger Consideration.
 
Q:
When is the Redomiciliation Merger expected to occur?
 
A:
Assuming the requisite the stockholder vote, we expect that the Redomiciliation Merger will occur during the third quarter of 2007. Our Certificate of Incorporation provides that if we have entered into definitive agreements to effect a business combination prior to June 21, 2007, we must consummate such business combination by December 21, 2007. Our agreements with TMT qualify as definitive agreements for these purposes.
 
Q:
May I seek statutory appraisal rights with respect to my shares?
 
A:
Under applicable Delaware law, you do not have appraisal rights with respect to your shares.
 
Q:
What happens if the Redomiciliation Merger is not consummated?
 
A:
The acquisition of the eight drybulk carriers from TMT is contingent upon the approval and consummation of the Redomiciliation Merger. If Star Maritime does not consummate the Redomiciliation Merger or another transaction with a target business by December 21, 2007, then pursuant to Article SIXTH of its Certificate of Incorporation, Star Maritime's officers must take all actions necessary in accordance with the Delaware General Corporation Law to dissolve and liquidate Star Maritime within 60 days of that date. Following dissolution, Star Maritime would no longer exist as a corporation. In any liquidation, the funds held in the Trust Account, plus any interest earned thereon (net of taxes), together with any remaining out-of-trust net assets will be distributed pro-rata to holders of shares of Star Maritime common stock who acquired such shares of common stock in Star Maritime’s Initial Public Offering or in the aftermarket. Holders of shares issued prior to our Initial Public Offering including in the Private Placement have waived any right to any liquidation distribution with respect to such shares.
 
Q:
What happens post-Redomiciliation Merger to the funds deposited in the Trust Account?
 
A:
Star Maritime stockholders exercising redemption rights will receive their pro rata portion of the Trust Account. The balance of the funds in the account will be retained by Star Bulk and utilized to fund a portion of the cash portion of the purchase price for the eight vessels to be acquired by Star Bulk.
 
Q:
What other important considerations are there?
 
A:
You should also be aware that in pursuing the Redomiciliation Merger, Star Maritime has incurred substantial expenses. Star Maritime currently has limited available funds outside the Trust Account and will, therefore, be required to borrow funds or make arrangements with vendors and service providers in reliance on the expectation that such expenses will be paid by Star Bulk following consummation of the Redomiciliation Merger. If for any reason the Redomiciliation Merger is not consummated, Star Maritime's creditors may seek to satisfy their claims from funds in the Trust Account. This could result in further depletion of the Trust Account, which would reduce a stockholder's pro rata portion of the Trust Account upon liquidation.
 
Q:
Who will manage Star Bulk?
 
A:
Messrs. Tsirigakis and Syllantavos, who currently serve as the Chief Executive Officer and director and Chief Financial Officer and director of Star Maritime, respectively, will serve in these roles at Star Bulk following the Redomiciliation Merger. In addition, Messrs. Pappas, Erhardt and Søfteland, who currently serve as directors of Star Maritime, as well as Messrs. Nobu Su and Peter Espig, each of whom are nominees of TMT, will serve as directors of Star Bulk.
 
Q:
What is the anticipated dividend policy of Star Bulk?
 
A:
Star Bulk currently intends to pay quarterly dividends to the holders of its common shares in February, May, August and November, in amounts that will allow it to retain a portion of its cash flows to fund vessel or fleet acquisitions, and for debt repayment and dry-docking and operating costs, as determined by its management and board of directors. The payment of dividends is not guaranteed or assured and may be discontinued at the sole discretion of Star Bulk’s board of directors and may not be paid in the anticipated amounts and frequency set forth in this joint proxy statement/prospectus. Star Bulk’s board of directors will continually review its dividend policy and make adjustments that it believes appropriate. See “Dividend Policy of Star Bulk.”
 
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HOW TO OBTAIN ADDITIONAL INFORMATION 
 
This joint proxy statement/prospectus incorporates information about Star Maritime and Star Bulk that is not included in or delivered with the document. If you would like to receive this information or if you want additional copies of this document, such information is available without charge upon written or oral request. Please contact the following:
 
Star Maritime Acquisition Corp.
103 Foulk Road
Wilmington, Delaware 19803
Attention: Corporate Secretary
Tel: (302) 656-1950
 
If you would like to request documents, please do so by               , 2007, to receive them before Star Maritime’s special meeting. Please be sure to include your complete name and address in your request.
 
Please see “Where You Can Find Additional Information” to find out where you can find more information about Star Maritime and Star Bulk.
 
You should only rely on the information contained in this joint proxy statement/prospectus in deciding how to vote on the Redomiciliation Merger. Neither Star Maritime nor Star Bulk has authorized anyone to give any information or to make any representations other than those contained in this joint proxy statement/prospectus. Do not rely upon any information or representations made outside of this joint proxy statement/prospectus. The information contained in this joint proxy statement/prospectus may change after the date of this joint proxy statement/prospectus. Do not assume after the date of this joint proxy statement/prospectus that the information contained in this joint proxy statement/prospectus is still correct.
 
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SUMMARY 
 
This summary highlights selected information from this joint proxy statement/prospectus but may not contain all of the information that may be important to you. Accordingly, we encourage you to read carefully this entire joint proxy statement/prospectus, including eight Memoranda of Agreement attached as Appendix A through Appendix H, the Supplemental Agreement attached as Appendix I, the Master Agreement attached as Appendix J and the Agreement and Plan of Merger attached as Appendix K. Please read these documents carefully as they are the legal documents that govern the Redomiciliation Merger and your rights in the Redomiciliation Merger. We have included page references in parentheses to direct you to a more detailed description of the items presented in this summary. Unless the context otherwise requires, references to “we,”“us” or “our” refers to Star Maritime.
 
The Parties to the Redomiciliation Merger (page 50)
 
Star Maritime Acquisition Corp.
103 Foulk Road
Wilmington, Delaware 19803
Telephone: (302) 656-1950
 
 
Star Maritime is a blank check company, also known as a Business Combination Company™, or BCC™, organized under the laws of the State of Delaware on May 13, 2005. “Business Combination Company™” and “BCC” are service marks of Maxim Group LLC. Star Maritime was formed to acquire, through a merger, capital stock exchange, asset acquisition or other similar business combination, one or more target businesses in the shipping industry. On December 15, 2005, Star Maritime consummated a private placement whereby certain of Star Maritime’s officers and directors purchased an aggregate of 1,132,500 units at a purchase price of $10.00 per unit. On December 21, 2005, Star Maritime completed an initial public offering of 18,867,500 units at a purchase price of $10.00 per unit. Each unit consisted of one share of Star Maritime’s common stock and one warrant. Each warrant entitles the holder to purchase one share of Star Maritime’s common stock at an exercise price of $8.00 per share. Star Maritime’s common stock and warrants currently trade on the American Stock Exchange under the symbols SEA and SEA.WS, respectively. Other than activities incident to its initial public offering and the pursuit of a business combination, Star Maritime has not engaged in any operations to date. If Star Maritime does not consummate the Redomiciliation Merger or another a business combination by December 21, 2007, then, pursuant to Article SIXTH of its Certificate of Incorporation, Star Maritime’s officers must take all actions necessary in accordance with the Delaware General Corporation Law to dissolve and liquidate Star Maritime within 60 days of that date.
 
Star Bulk Carriers Corp.
40 Ag. Konstantinou Avenue
Aethrion Center, Suite B34
Maroussi 15124
Athens, Greece
Attention: Corporate Secretary
Telephone: 011-30-210-638-7399
 
Star Bulk is a wholly-owned Marshall Islands subsidiary of Star Maritime incorporated on December 13, 2006 with no history of operations, and is headquartered in Athens, Greece. Pursuant to the Acquisition Agreements, following the Redomiciliation Merger, Star Bulk will acquire a fleet of eight drybulk carriers from certain subsidiaries of TMT for an aggregate purchase price of $345,237,520, consisting of $224,500,000 in cash and 12,537,645 shares of common stock. Following the effective date of the Redomiciliation Merger, TMT and its affiliates are expected to own between 30.2% and 35.9% of the outstanding common stock of Star Bulk, depending on the number of shares redeemed for cash. See “Description of Star Maritime Securities - Common Stock.”
 
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Mr. Akis Tsirigakis, the Chairman, Chief Executive Officer and President of Star Maritime, will serve as the Chief Executive Officer and President of Star Bulk. Mr. George Syllantavos, the Chief Financial Officer of Star Maritime will serve as the Chief Financial Officer of Star Bulk. The board of directors of Star Bulk will be comprised of seven directors. Each of the five current directors of Star Maritime will serve as directors of Star Bulk. In addition, Mr. Nobu Su and Mr. Peter Espig, each nominees of TMT, will serve as directors of Star Bulk. Mr. Petros Pappas and Mr. Nobu Su will each serve as non-executive Co-Chairman.
 
Star Bulk will apply to have its shares of common stock and warrants listed on the Nasdaq Global Market under the symbols “SBLK” and “SBLKW” respectively.
 
The Seller of the Vessels (page 45)
 
TMT Co., Ltd.
12 Floor 167 FU HSIN NORTH ROAD
Taipei 105
Taiwan, Republic of China
Attention: Corporate Secretary
011 886 2 221750229
 
Star Bulk has entered into definitive agreements to acquire the eight drybulk carriers from subsidiaries of TMT. TMT is a global shipping company with its management headquarters located in Taiwan. TMT has  approximately 50 years of experience in the shipping industry. TMT owns through companies registered in Panama and/or operates or invests in vessels in several shipping sectors, including crude oil tankers, drybulk carriers and liquified natural gas, or LNG, carriers.
 
The Redomiciliation Merger (page 50)
 
Subject to the terms and conditions of the Merger Agreement, Star Maritime will merge with and into Star Bulk, a corporation organized under the laws of the Republic of the Marshall Islands, the separate corporate existence of Star Maritime will cease and Star Bulk will be the surviving corporation.
 
Star Bulk has entered into definitive agreements to acquire a fleet of eight drybulk carriers with a combined cargo-carrying capacity of approximately 691,000 dwt from certain subsidiaries of TMT. We refer to these eight drybulk carriers as the initial fleet. The aggregate purchase price for the initial fleet is $345,237,520, consisting of $224,500,000 in cash and 12,537,645 shares of common stock of Star Bulk. Such shares of common stock will be issued concurrently with the Redomiciliation Merger to TMT, as agent for its vessel-owning subsidiaries. Star Maritime has also entered into related agreements with TMT in connection with the acquisition of the vessels.
 
In connection with the acquisition of the vessels in the initial fleet, Star Bulk has also agreed to issue to TMT or its nominated affiliate, under certain circumstances, additional shares of Star Bulk common stock, which we refer to as the Additional Stock. Specifically, Star Bulk will issue (i) 803,481 additional shares of Star Bulk’s common stock, no more than 10 business days following Star Bulk’s filing of its Annual Report on Form 20-F for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2007, if the gross revenue of Star Bulk and its consolidated subsidiaries which own the vessels in the initial fleet exceeds 80% of Star Bulk’s forecasted annual consolidated revenue for such subsidiaries for the fiscal year commencing as of the effective time of the Redomiciliation Merger and ending on December 31, 2007, as agreed between Star Bulk and TMT prior to the effective time of the Redomiciliation Merger; and (ii) 803,481 additional shares of Star Bulk’s common stock, no more than 10 business days following Star Bulk’s filing of its Annual Report on Form 20-F for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2008, if the gross revenue of Star Bulk and its consolidated subsidiaries owning the vessels in the initial fleet exceeds 80% of the forecasted annual consolidated revenue for such subsidiaries as agreed between Star Bulk and TMT prior to the effective time of the Redomiciliation Merger.
 
On February 28, 2007, Star Bulk and TMT agreed for purposes of the issuance of the Additional Stock, Star Bulk’s forecasted annual consolidated revenue for the fiscal year commencing on the effective date of the Redomiciliation Merger and ending December 31, 2007 will be $40,000,000, assuming that the Redomiciliation Merger occurs by June 30, 2007, adjusted pro-rata for the period remaining to the end of 2007 if the Redomiciliation Merger occurs after June 30, 2007, and $90,000,000 for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2008.
 
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Following the effective date of the Redomiciliation Merger, TMT and its affiliates are expected to own between 30.2% and 35.9% of Star Bulk’s outstanding common stock, depending on the number of shares redeemed for cash. Assuming applicable conditions to issuance are satisfied after giving effect to the issuance of the Additional Stock, TMT and its affiliates are expected to own between 32.8% and 38.7% of the Star Bulk’s outstanding common stock, depending on the number of shares redeemed for cash.
 
Redemption Rights (page 36)
 
As provided in Star Maritime’s Certificate of Incorporation, holders of Star Maritime common stock have the right to redeem their shares for cash by voting against the Redomiciliation Merger and electing to have such shares redeemed for cash. The exercise of redemption rights must be made on the proxy card at the same time that the stockholder votes against the Redomiciliation Merger. With respect to each share of common stock for which stockholders have exercised redemption rights, Star Maritime will redeem each such share for a pro rata portion of the Trust Account in which the proceeds of Star Maritime’s Initial Public Offering are held, plus interest earned thereon. Based on the amount of cash held in the Trust Account at December 31, 2006, you will be entitled to redeem each share of common stock that you hold for approximately $10.21. If you exercise your redemption rights, then you will be exchanging your shares of Star Maritime common stock for cash and will no longer own these shares. You will only be entitled to receive cash for these shares if you continue to hold these shares through the effective date of the Redomiciliation Merger and then tender your stock certificate to Star Maritime. If the Redomiciliation Merger is not completed, then these shares will not be redeemed for cash. A stockholder who exercises redemption rights will continue to own any warrants to acquire Star Maritime common stock owned by such stockholder as such warrants will remain outstanding and unaffected by the exercise of redemption rights.
 
Star Maritime cannot complete the Redomiciliation Merger unless (1) the holders of at least a majority of the issued and outstanding shares of Star Maritime entitled to vote at the special meeting vote in favor of the Redomiciliation Merger; (2) holders of at least a majority of the shares of common stock issued in the Initial Public Offering and the Private Placement vote in favor of the Redomiciliation Merger; and (3) holders of less than 6,600,000 shares of common stock, such number representing 33.0% of the 20,000,000 shares of Star Maritime common stock issued in the Initial Public Offering and Private Placement, vote against the Redomiciliation Merger and exercise their redemption rights to have their shares redeemed for cash. In order to exercise redemption rights, an eligible stockholder must vote against the Redomiciliation Merger and elect to exercise redemption rights on the enclosed proxy card. If a stockholder votes against the Redomiciliation Merger but fails to properly exercise redemption rights, such stockholder will not be entitled to have its shares redeemed for cash. Any request for redemption, once made, may be withdrawn at any time up to the date of the special meeting.
 
Merger Consideration (page 50)
 
Pursuant to the Merger Agreement, each outstanding share of Star Maritime common stock will be converted into the right to receive one share of Star Bulk common stock and each outstanding warrant of Star Maritime will be assumed by Star Bulk and will contain the same terms and restrictions except that each will be exercisable for common stock of Star Bulk.
 
Procedure for Receiving Merger Consideration (page 50)
 
Promptly after the effective time of the Redomiciliation Merger, an exchange agent appointed by Star Bulk will mail a letter of transmittal and instructions to Star Maritime stockholders. The letter of transmittal and instructions will tell Star Maritime stockholders how to surrender their stock certificates in exchange for the Merger Consideration. Star Maritime stockholders should not return their stock certificates with the enclosed proxy card, and they should not forward their stock certificates to the exchange agent without a letter of transmittal.
 
9

 
The Star Maritime Special Meeting (page 35) 
 
The special meeting of Star Maritime stockholders will take place at                       , New York, New York on                    , 2007, at 10 a.m.
 
Quorum, Record Date and Voting (page 35) 
 
A quorum of Star Maritime’s stockholders is necessary to hold a valid meeting. A quorum will be present at the Star Maritime special meeting if a majority of the issued and outstanding shares of Star Maritime’s common stock entitled to vote at the meeting are present in person or by proxy. Abstentions and broker non-votes will count as present for the purpose of establishing a quorum. Only holders of record of shares of Star Maritime common stock as of the close of business on                 , 2007 may vote at the Star Maritime special meeting. As of January 31, 2007, there were 29,026,924 shares of Star Maritime common stock outstanding and entitled to vote. Holders of shares of Star Maritime common stock will have one vote for each share of Star Maritime common stock owned at the close of business on the record date. Star Maritime warrants do not have voting rights.
 
Messrs. Tsirigakis and Syllantavos, our senior executive officers, and Messrs. Pappas and Erhardt, two of our directors, have agreed to vote an aggregate of 1,132,500 shares, or 3.9% of Star Maritime’s outstanding common stock, acquired by them in the Private Placement and any shares of Star Maritime common stock they may acquire in the future in favor of the Redomiciliation Merger and thereby waive redemption rights with respect to such shares. All of Star Maritime’s officers and directors have agreed to vote an aggregate of 9,026,924 shares, or 31.1% of Star Maritime’s outstanding common stock, issued to them prior to our Initial Public Offering in accordance with the vote of the holders of a majority of the shares issued in Star Maritime’s Initial Public Offering.
 
Star Maritime cannot complete the Redomiciliation Merger unless: (1) the holders of at least a majority of the issued and outstanding shares of Star Maritime entitled to vote at the special meeting vote in favor of the Redomiciliation Merger; (2) holders of at least a majority of the shares of common stock issued in the Initial Public Offering and the Private Placement vote in favor of the Redomiciliation Merger; and (3) holders of less than 6,600,000 shares of common stock, such number representing 33.0% of the 20,000,000 shares of Star Maritime common stock issued in the Initial Public Offering and Private Placement, vote against the Redomiciliation Merger and exercise their redemption rights to have their shares redeemed for cash. A vote in favor of the Redomiciliation Merger is, in effect, a vote in favor of Star Bulks acquisition of the vessels from TMT.
 
Proxies (page 36)
 
Proxies may be solicited by mail, telephone or in person. Star Maritime may engage a proxy solicitor to assist it in the solicitation of proxies. If you grant a proxy, you may still vote your shares in person if you revoke your proxy before the special meeting or if you attend the special meeting and vote in person.
 
Recommendations of the Boards of Directors and Reasons for the Redomiciliation Merger (page 41)
 
In reaching its decision with respect to the Redomiciliation Merger, the board of directors of Star Maritime considered the various regulatory and tax advantages to operating an international shipping company domiciled in the Republic of the Marshall Islands as compared to a corporation domiciled in the United States. The board of directors has unanimously determined that it is advisable and in the best interests of Star Maritime’s stockholders to merge with and into Star Bulk, a wholly-owned Marshall Islands subsidiary, with Star Bulk as the surviving corporation, which would acquire vessels and operate as an international shipping company. In reaching its decision with respect to the merger with and into Star Bulk, which has entered into definitive agreements to acquire the vessels in the initial fleet, the board of directors of Star Maritime reviewed various due diligence materials including the vessels’ classification society records, records relating to the vessels’ physical inspection and vessel valuations prepared by independent purchase and sale brokers recognized in the international shipping industry, as well as advice from and evaluation materials prepared by its financial advisors. The board of directors of Star Maritime has unanimously determined that the Redomiciliation Merger is advisable and in the best interests of Star Maritime’s stockholders and that the aggregate purchase price of the initial fleet to be paid by Star Bulk is reasonable. Accordingly, the Star Maritime board of directors unanimously recommends that Star Maritime stockholders vote “FOR” the approval and authorization of the Redomiciliation Merger at the Star Maritime special meeting.
 
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Interests of Certain Persons in the Redomiciliation Merger (page 42)
 
When you consider the recommendation of Star Maritime’s board of directors that you vote in favor of approval of the Redomiciliation Merger, you should keep in mind that certain of Star Maritime’s officers and directors have interests in the Redomiciliation Merger that are different from, or in addition to, your interest as a stockholder. These interests include, among other things:
 
·  
Star Maritime’s officers and directors were issued a total of 9,026,924 shares of Star Maritime common stock prior to the Initial Public Offering. These shares, without taking into account any discount that may be associated with certain restrictions on these shares, collectively have a market value of approximately $89,998,432 based on Star Maritime’s share price of $9.97 as of March 9, 2007. Except for up to 200,000 shares that may be required to be surrendered by such individuals for cancellation upon the exercise of redemption rights by the holders of Star Maritime's common stock, none of the 9,026,924 shares issued prior to the Initial Public Offering to these individuals may be released from escrow until December 15, 2008 during which time the value of the shares may increase or decrease; however, since such shares were acquired for $.003 per share, the holders are likely to benefit from the Redomiciliation Merger notwithstanding any decrease in the market price of the shares. Further, if the Redomiciliation Merger is not approved and Star Maritime fails to consummate an alternative transaction within the requisite period and the Company is therefore required to liquidate, such shares do not carry the right to receive any distributions upon liquidation.
 
·  
Messrs. Tsirigakis and Syllantavos, our senior executive officers and Messrs. Pappas and Erhadt, two of our directors, purchased an aggregate of 1,132,500 units in the Private Placement at a purchase price of $10.00 per unit. Star Maritime’s officers and directors agreed to vote their common shares included in the units in favor of the Redomiciliation Merger and thereby waive redemption rights with respect to those shares. If the Redomiciliation Merger is not approved and Star Maritime fails to consummate an alternative transaction within the requisite period and Star Maritime is therefore required to liquidate, those shares do not carry the right to receive distributions upon liquidation.
 
·  
After the completion of the Redomiciliation Merger, Mr. Tsirigakis will serve as Star Bulk’s Chief Executive Officer and President and Mr. Syllantavos will serve as Star Bulk’s Chief Financial Officer. Star Bulk’s board of directors will be comprised of seven directors. Each of the five current directors of Star Maritime will serve as directors of Star Bulk. In addition Mr. Su and Mr. Espig, each a nominee of TMT, will serve as directors. Mr. Pappas and Mr. Su will each serve as non-executive Co-Chairman of the board of Star Bulk. Such individuals will, following the Redomiciliation Merger, be compensated in such manner, and in such amounts, as Star Bulk’s board of directors may determine to be appropriate. See “Information Concerning Star BulkCompensation of Directors and Senior Management.”
 
·  
Star Bulk has entered into time charters for two vessels in the initial fleet with TMT. Effective as of the Redomiciliation Merger, Mr. Nobu Su and Mr. Peter Espig of TMT will serve on Star Bulk's board of directors.
 
11

 
Acquisition Financing (page 49)
 
Star Bulk has received indication letters from international shipping lenders that will, subject to the approval of the Redomiciliation Merger, provide Star Bulk with a credit facility of up to $120,000,000 with a minimum eight-year term and secured by the vessels that Star Bulk has agreed to acquire from TMT. Star Bulk intends to draw down approximately $40,000,000 under the credit facility at to fund a portion of the cash consideration of the aggregate purchase price of the vessels in the initial fleet. Any excess un-drawn funds under the credit facility will be used for additional vessel acquisitions and to provide working capital.
 
Conditions to the Redomiciliation Merger (page 52)
 
The completion of the Redomiciliation Merger is subject to the satisfaction or, if permissible, waiver of a number of conditions. Star Maritime cannot complete the Redomiciliation Merger unless (1) the holders of at least a majority of the issued and outstanding shares of Star Maritime entitled to vote at the special meeting vote in favor of the Redomiciliation Merger; (2) holders of at least a majority of the shares of common stock issued in the Initial Public Offering and the Private Placement vote in favor of the Redomiciliation Merger; and (3) holders of less than 6,600,000 shares of common stock, such number representing 33.0% of the 20,000,000 shares of Star Maritime common stock issued in the Initial Public Offering and Private Placement, vote against the Redomiciliation Merger and exercise their redemption rights to have their shares redeemed for cash. We expect to complete the Redomiciliation Merger during the third quarter of 2007, but we cannot be certain when or if the conditions will be satisfied or, if permissible, waived.
 
The obligations of Star Bulk to purchase the vessels in the initial fleet and the obligations of TMT to sell the vessels in the initial fleet are subject to the approval of the Redomiciliation Merger by Star Maritime’s stockholders in addition to customary closing conditions.
 
Termination of the Merger Agreement (page 52)
 
The Merger Agreement may be terminated (i) at any time prior to the effective time of the Redomiciliation Merger by mutual consent in writing of Star Maritime and Star Bulk; or (ii) unilaterally upon written notice by either Star Maritime or Star Bulk, in the event of such other parties’ material breach of any representation or warranty contained in the Merger Agreement.
 
Termination of the Master Agreement (page 46)
 
The Master Agreement may be terminated at any time prior to the closing, as follows:
 
·  
Upon satisfaction or waiver of all obligations of all parties, arising underneath Merger Agreement, the Supplement Agreement and the MOAs; and
 
·  
if the Redomiciliation Merger is not approved by the required vote of Star Maritime’s stockholders;
   
·   if the other conditions precedent set forth in the Master Agreement are not satisfied or waived.
 
Liquidation if No Business Combination (page 53)
 
You should also be aware that in pursuing the Redomiciliation Merger, Star Maritime has incurred substantial expenses. Star Maritime currently has limited available funds outside the Trust Account, and will therefore be required to borrow funds or make arrangements with vendors and service providers in reliance on the expectation that such expenses will be paid by Star Bulk following consummation of the Redomiciliation Merger. If for any reason the Redomiciliation Merger is not consummated, Star Maritime's creditors may also seek to satisfy their claims from funds in the Trust Account. This could result in depletion of the Trust Account, which would reduce a stockholder's pro rata portion of the Trust Account upon liquidation.
 
Material U.S. Federal Income Tax Consequences (page 43)
 
Star Maritime has obtained the opinion of its counsel, Seward & Kissel LLP, that the Redomiciliation Merger will be treated as a nontaxable reorganization for U.S. federal income tax purposes. The opinion of Seward & Kissel LLP is subject to the limitations and qualifications set forth in the discussion of “Material U.S. Federal Income Tax Consequences.” Because the Redomiciliation Merger will be treated as a nontaxable reorganization for U.S. federal income tax purposes, Star Bulk will not recognize gain or loss as a result of the Redomiciliation Merger. In addition, Star Maritime stockholders will not recognize gain or loss upon the exchange of their shares of Star Maritime common stock solely for shares of Star Bulk common stock pursuant to the Redomiciliation Merger. However, a Star Maritime stockholder who receives solely cash in exchange for his or her shares of Star Maritime common stock generally will recognize gain or loss for U.S. federal income tax purposes in an amount equal to the difference between his basis for U.S. federal income tax purposes in such shares and the cash received. The federal income tax consequences of the Redomiciliation Merger are complicated and may differ between individual stockholders. We strongly urge each Star Maritime stockholder to consult his or her own tax advisor regarding the federal income tax consequences of the Redomiciliation Merger in light of his or her own personal tax situation and also as to any state, local, foreign or other tax consequences arising out of the Redomiciliation Merger. Further, we do not give any opinion regarding the tax impact in the event that Star Maritime stockholders exercise redemption rights.
 
Accounting Treatment (page 43) 
 
The Redomiciliation Merger will be accounted for as a business combination between companies under common control with Star Bulk as the accounting acquirer. The assets and liabilities of Star Maritime acquired by Star Bulk will be recorded as of the acquisition date at their respective costs and added to those of Star Bulk. Following the effetive date of the Redomiciliation Merger, Star Bulk will continue as the surviving company and the separate coporate existence of  Star Maritime shall cease. Accordingly, the results of operations after completion of the acquisition will be those of Star Bulk.
 
Comparison of Star Maritime and Star Bulk Stockholder Rights (page 108)
 
Star Maritime is incorporated under the laws of the State of Delaware. Star Bulk is incorporated under the laws of the Republic of the Marshall Islands. Upon consummation of the Redomiciliation Merger, the stockholders of Star Maritime will become shareholders of Star Bulk. Star Bulk’s amended and restated articles of incorporation and by-laws differ from the organizational documents governing the rights of the former Star Maritime stockholders. In particular, Star Maritime’s certificate of incorporation authorizes the issuance of up to 1,000,000 shares of blank check preferred stock by its board of directors. Star Bulk’s articles of incorporation authorize the issuance of up to 25,000,000 shares of blank check preferred stock by the board of directors. Star Maritime’s certificate of incorporation provides that a special meeting of stockholders may be called by a majority of the entire board of directors or the Chief Executive Officer, and shall be called by the Secretary at the request in writing of stockholders owning a majority in amount of the entire capital stock of the corporation issued and outstanding and entitled to vote. Star Bulk’s organizational documents require that a special meeting of stockholders may only be called by the board of directors, jointly by the Co-Chairmen or the President. In addition, Star Bulk’s articles of incorporation include a provision which limits Star Bulk from engaging in a business combination transaction with stockholders owning 20% or more of the outstanding voting stock of Star Bulk.
 
12

 
Regulatory Approvals (page 44)
 
Star Maritime and Star Bulk do not expect that the Redomiciliation Merger will be subject to any state or federal regulatory requirements other than filings under applicable securities laws and the effectiveness of the registration statement of Star Bulk of which this joint proxy statement/prospectus is part, and the filing of certain merger documents with the Registrar of Corporations of the Republic of the Marshall Islands and with the Secretary of State of the State of Delaware. Star Maritime and Star Bulk intend to comply with all such requirements. We do not believe that, in connection with the completion of the Redomiciliation Merger, any consent, approval, authorization or permit of, or filing with or notification to, any merger control authority will be required in any jurisdiction.  
 
13

 
STAR BULK SUMMARY FINANCIAL INFORMATION
 
Because Star Bulk was incorporated on December 13, 2006, and has no operating history, Star Bulk does not have any historical financial statements for any period other than a balance sheet as of February 5, 2007, which is included later in this joint proxy statement/prospectus.

   
As of February 5, 2007
 
Assets
     
Current assets
     
Cash and cash equivalents
   
1,000
 
Total current assets
   
1,000
 
         
Total assets
   
1,000
 
         
Liabilities and Shareholders' Equity
       
         
Commitments and contingencies (Note 4)
   
-
 
         
Shareholders’ Equity
   
 
 
Common stock (100,000,000 shares authorized, par value $0.01 per share, 500 issued and outstanding)
   
5
 
Preferred stock (25,000,000 shares authorized, par value $0.01 per share, none issued and outstanding)         
Paid-in capital
   
995
 
Total shareholders' equity
   
1,000
 
Total liabilities and shareholders’ equity
   
1,000
 
 

14

 
STAR MARITIME SUMMARY FINANCIAL INFORMATION
 
Star Maritime Acquisition Corp. was incorporated in Delaware on May 13, 2005 to serve as a vehicle for the acquisition through a merger, capital stock exchange, asset acquisition, or other similar business combination with one or more businesses in the shipping industry. Star Maritime has not acquired an entity as of December 31, 2006. Star Maritime has selected December 31 as its fiscal year end. Star Maritime is considered to be in the development stage and is subject to the risks associated with activities of development stage companies. The summary financial information set forth below should be read in conjunction with the audited financial statements of Star Maritime for the period from inception to December 31, 2006 and for the fiscal years ended December 31, 2005 and 2006 and related notes included elsewhere in this joint proxy statement/prospectus.

(a development stage company)
 
Balance Sheet
 
 
December 31, 2006
 
December 31, 2005
 
ASSETS
         
Current Assets
         
Cash
 
$
2,118,141
 
$
593,281
 
Investments in trust account
   
192,915,257
   
188,858,542
 
Prepaid expenses and other current assets
   
149,647
   
118,766
 
 
         
Total Current Assets
   
195,183,045
   
189,570,589
 
 
         
Property and Equipment, net
   
3,256
   
-
 
Deferred tax asset
   
-
   
9,000
 
 
         
TOTAL ASSETS
 
$
195,186,301
 
$
189,579,589
 
 
         
LIABILITIES & STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY
         
Liabilities
         
Accounts payable & accrued expenses
 
$
603,520
 
$
344,638
 
Deferred Interest on investments
   
2,163,057
       
Deferred underwriting fees
   
4,000,000
   
4,000,000
 
Income taxes payable
   
206,687
   
   
 
Total Liabilities
   
6,973,264
   
4,344,638
 
Common Stock, $.0001 par value, 6,599,999 shares subject to possible redemption, at redemption value of $9.80 per share
   
64,679,990
   
64,679,990
 
 
         
Commitments
         
 
         
Stockholders’ Equity
         
Preferred Stock, $.0001 par value; authorized, 1,000,000 shares; none issued or outstanding
   
-
     
Common Stock, $.0001 par value, authorized, 100,000,000 shares; 29,026,924 shares issued and outstanding
   
2,903
   
2,903
 
(including 6,599,999 shares subject to possible redemption)
         
Additional paid in capital
   
120,441,727
   
120,441,727
 
Earnings accumulated in the development stage
   
3,088,417
   
110,331
 
Total Stockholders’ Equity
   
123,533,047
   
120,554,961
 
 
         
TOTAL LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY
 
$
195,186,301
 
$
189,579,589
 
 
15


Star Maritime Acquisition Corp.
(a development stage company)
 
Statement of Income
 
 
 
 For the Year
Ended
December 31,
2006
 
May 13, 2005
 (date of inception)
to
December 31,
2005
 
May 13, 2005
(date of inception)
to
December 31,
2006
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
Operating expenses
             
Professional fees
 
$
596,423
 
$
19,600
 
$
616,023
 
Insurance
   
112,242
   
4,234
   
116,476
 
Due diligence costs
   
262,877
   
-
   
262,877
 
Other
   
239,558
   
26,377
   
265,935
 
Total operating expenses
   
1,211,100
   
50,211
   
1,261,311
 
                     
Interest income
   
4,395,873
   
183,542
   
4,579,415
 
Income before provision for income taxes
   
3,184,773
   
133,331
   
3,318,104
 
Provision for income taxes
   
206,687
   
23,000
   
229,687
 
Net income
 
$
2,978,086
 
$
110,331
 
$
3,088,417
 
Earnings per share (basic and diluted)
 
$
0.10
 
$
0.01
 
$
0.14
 
Weighted average shares outstanding - basic and diluted
   
29,026,924
   
9,918,282
   
21,601,120
 
 
16

 
Star Maritime Acquisition Corp.
(a development stage company)
 

   
For the Year Ended December 31, 2006
 
May 13, 2005 (date of inception) to December 31, 2005
 
May 13, 2005 (date of inception) to December 31, 2006
 
Cash flows from operating activities:
   
 
   
 
   
 
 
Net Income
 
$
2,978,086
 
$
110,331
 
$
3,088,417
 
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash used in operating activities:
   
 
   
 
   
 
 
Depreciation
   
408
   
 
   
408
 
Changes in operating assets and liabilities:
   
 
   
 
   
-
 
Increase in value of trust account
   
(4,056,715
)
 
(183,542
)
 
(4,240,257
)
Increase in prepaid expenses and other current assets
   
(30,881
)
 
(118,766
)
 
(149,647
)
Decrease (increase) in deferred tax asset
   
9,000
   
(9,000
)
 
-
 
Increase in accounts payable and accrued expenses
   
429,467
   
174,053
   
603,520
 
Increase in deferred interest
   
2,163,057
   
-
   
2,163,057
 
Increase in taxes payable
   
206,687
   
-
   
206,687
 
Net cash provided by (used in) operating activities
   
1,699,109
   
(26,924
)
 
1,672,185
 
 
                   
Cash flows from investing activities:
   
 
   
 
   
 
 
Payment to trust account
   
-
   
(188,675,000
)
 
(188,675,000
)
Capital expenditures
   
(3,664
)
 
-
   
(3,664
)
Net cash used in investing activities
   
(3,664
)
 
(188,675,000
)
 
(188,678,664
)
 
                   
Cash flows from financing activities:
   
 
   
 
   
 
 
Gross proceeds from public offering
   
 
   
188,675,000
   
188,675,000
 
Gross proceeds from private placement
   
 
   
11,325,000
   
11,325,000
 
Proceeds of note payable to stockholder
   
-
   
590,000
   
590,000
 
Repayment of note payable to stockholder
   
-
   
(590,000
)
 
(590,000
)
Proceeds from sale of shares of common stock
   
-
   
25,000
   
25,000
 
Payment of offering costs
   
(170,585
)
 
(10,729,795
)
 
(10,900,380
)
Net cash provided by financing activities
   
(170,585
)
 
189,295,205
   
189,124,620
 
                     
Net cash increase for period
   
1,524,860
   
593,281
   
2,118,141
 
                     
Cash at beginning of period
   
593,281
   
-
   
-
 
Cash at end of period
 
$
2,118,141
 
$
593,281
 
$
2,118,141
 
Supplemental cash disclosure
   
 
   
 
   
 
 
Interest paid
 
$
-
 
$
9,163
 
$
9,163
 
Supplemental schedule of non-cash financing activities
   
 
   
 
   
 
 
Accrual of deferred underwriting fees
 
$
-
 
$
4,000,000
 
$
4,000,000
 
Accrual of offering costs
 
$
-
 
$
170,585
   
 
 
 
17

 
STAR MARITIME ACQUISITION CORP.
UNAUDITED PRO FORMA COMBINED BALANCE SHEET

The following unaudited pro forma combined balance sheet presents the financial position of Star Maritime as of December 31, 2006, assuming the acquisition of the vessels had been completed as of December 31, 2006. The historical financial information has been adjusted to give effect to pro forma events that are directly attributable to the Redomiciliation Merger, factually supportable, and expected to have a continuing impact on the combined results. Star Bulk was recently formed on December 13, 2006, does not have any assets or operations as of December 31, 2006, and therefore has not been included within this analysis because its results would not differ from those of Star Maritime.
 
We are providing the following information to aid you in your analysis of the financial aspects of the Redomiciliation Merger. We derived this information from the audited balance sheet of Star Maritime as of December 31, 2006. This information should be read together with the Star Maritime audited financial statements and related notes, and “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations” for Star Maritime and other financial information included elsewhere in this joint proxy statement/prospectus.
 
The unaudited pro forma combined information is for illustrative purposes only. You should not rely on the unaudited pro forma combined balance sheet as being indicative of the historical financial position that would have been achieved had the Redomiciliation Merger been consummated as of this date.
 
See Notes to Unaudited Pro Forma Combined Balance Sheet
 
UNAUDITED PRO FORMA COMBINED BALANCE SHEET
AS OF DECEMBER 31, 2006
 
   
Star Maritime Acquisition Corp.
 
 Pro Forma Adjustments (with no stock redemption)  
     
 Combined 
 
 Additional Pro Forma Adjustments (with 6,599,999 shares of common stock redemption) 
     
 Combined (stock redemption)
 
ASSETS
                                       
CURRENT ASSETS:
                                       
                                         
Cash and cash equivalents
   
2,118,141
   
40,000,000
 
(a)
 
 
1,633,398
   
66,843,047
 
(h)
 
 
1,633,398
 
           
192,915,257
 
(b)
 
       
(64,679,990
)
(i)
 
     
           
(224,500,000
)
(c)
 
 
 
   
(2,163,057
)
(j)
 
 
 
 
           
(4,900,000
)
(e)
 
                     
           
(4,000,000
)
(f)
 
                     
                                         
Investment in trust account
   
192,915,257
   
(192,915,257
)
(b)
 
 
-
             
-
 
                                         
Prepaid expenses and other current assets
   
149,647
             
149,647
             
149,647
 
Total current assets
   
195,183,045
             
1,783,045
             
1,783,045
 
                                         
Fixed assets, net
   
3,256
             
3,256
             
3,256
 
Vessels, net
           
345,200,000
 
(c)
 
 
345,200,000
             
345,200,000
 
Total assets
   
195,186,301
             
346,986,301
             
346,986,301
 
                                         
                                         
LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY
                                       
CURRENT LIABILITIES:
                                       
                                         
Accounts payable and accrued expenses
   
603,520
             
603,520
             
603,520
 
Deferred interest on investment
   
2,163,057
   
(2,163,057
)
(g)
 
 
-
             
-
 
Deferred underwriting fees
   
4,000,000
   
(4,000,000
)
(f)
 
 
-
             
-
 
Income taxes payable
   
206,687
             
206,687
             
206,687
 
Total current liabilities
   
6,973,264
             
810,207
             
810,207
 
                                         
Long-term debt
   
-
   
40,000,000
 
(a)
 
 
40,000,000
   
66,843,047
 
(h)
 
 
106,843,047
 
Total liabilities
   
6,973,264
             
40,810,207
             
107,653,254
 
                                         
Common Stock, 6,599,999 subject to possible redemption at a redemption value of $9.80 per share
   
64,679,990
   
(64,679,990
)
(d)
 
 
-
             
-
 
                                         
Commitments
                                   
-
 
                                         
STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY
                                       
Preferred stock, $.0001 par value; authorized, 1,000,000 shares, none issued or outstanding
   
-
             
-
                 
Common stock, $.0001 par value; authorized, 100,000,000 shares; 29,026,924 shares issued and outstanding (including 6,599,999 shares subject to possible redemption)
   
2,903
   
1,254
 
(c)
 
                     
           
660
 
(d)
 
 
4,817
   
(660
)
(i)
 
 
4,137
 
Additional paid-in capital
   
120,441,727
   
120,698,746
 
(c)
 
 
300,919,803
   
(20
)
(k)
 
     
           
64,679,330
 
(d)
 
 
 
   
(64,679,330
)
(i)
 
     
           
(4,900,000
)
(e)
 
       
20
 
(k)
 
 
236,240,493
 
Earnings accumulated in the development stage
   
3,088,417
   
2,163,057
 
(g)
 
 
5,251,474
   
(2,163,057
)
(j)
 
 
3,088,417
 
 
   
-
                                 
Total stockholders' equity
   
123,533,047
             
306,176,094
             
239,333,047
 
                                         
Total liabilities and stockholders' equity
   
195,186,301
             
346,986,301
   
-
       
346,986,301
 
 
 
18

 
STAR MARITIME ACQUISITION CORP.
NOTES TO UNAUDITED PRO FORMA COMBINED BALANCE SHEET
AS OF DECEMBER 31, 2006

The pro forma balance sheet reflects the acquisition of the fleet of vessels from the subsidiaries of TMT and the drawdown of the loan to partially finance that transaction as further discussed in the “Summary” section of this document. The historical balance sheet of Star Maritime at December 31, 2006 used in the preparation of the unaudited pro forma financial information has been derived from the audited balance sheet of Star Maritime at December 31, 2006. Star Bulk did not have any assets or operations as of December 31, 2006 and has therefore not been reflected in the unaudited pro forma financial information. The Redomiciliation Merger is to be accounted for as a merger of entities under common control, and as such assets will continue to be recorded at their historical cost.
 
Separate pro forma balance sheets have been presented for the following circumstances (1) that no Star Maritime stockholders exercise their right to have their shares redeemed upon the consummation of the Redomiciliation Merger and (2) that holders of 6,599,999 shares of Star Maritime common stock elect to have their shares redeemed upon the consummation of the Redomiciliation Merger at the redemption value of $9.80 per share, based on the amount held in the Star Maritime trust fund, plus interest income to date thereon, at December 31, 2006.
 
Descriptions of the adjustments included in the unaudited pro forma balance sheets are as follows:

(a)
Reflects the drawdown of the loan of $40,000,000 under the credit facility described in “Acquisition Financing”. Star Bulk has received indication letters from international shipping lenders that will, subject to the approval of the Agreement and Plan of Merger, provide Star Bulk with a credit facility of up to $120,000,000 with an eight-year term and secured by five of the eight drybulk carriers that Star Bulk has agreed to acquire from TMT. Star Bulk intends to draw down $40,000,000 under the credit facility on the effective date of the Redomiciliation Merger to fund a portion of the cash consideration of the aggregate purchase price of in the initial fleet. The remaining funds under the credit facility may be used to replace funds from our Trust Account used to pay costs relating to the redemption of Star Maritime stockholders who vote against the Redomiciliation Merger and elect to redeem their shares. Any excess un-drawn funds under the credit facility may be used for additional vessel acquisitions and to provide working capital.

(b)
To transfer the total Investment in trust account balance to the operating cash account.
 
(c)
Reflects the purchase of Star Maritime’s acquisition of eight drybulk carriers from certain subsidiaries of TMT for an aggregate purchase price of $345.2 million consisting of $224.5 million payable in cash and $120.7 million payable in 12,537,645 common shares of Star Bulk.
 
(d)
In conjunction with the Redomiciliation Merger, all non-redeemed common stock forfeits redemption rights.
 
(e)
To record transaction costs comprised of: advisor fees of $2.8 million, legal fees of $1.1 million, $0.7 million in accounting fees and other fees of $0.3 million.
 
(f)
To reflect payment of underwriters’ deferred compensation, related to services provided in connection with Star Maritime’s Initial Public Offering in December 2005.
 
(g)
To record interest on Trust Account previously deferred.
 
(h)
To drawdown an additional $66.8 million under the Company’s credit facility of up to $120 million to replace funds from the Trust Account used for the payment of redemption value and deferred interest to investors.
 
(i)
Reflects the redemption of 32.99% of Star Maritime shares of common stock issued in the Company’s Initial Public Offering (“IPO shares”), at December 31, 2006 redemption value of $9.80 per share. The number of shares assumed redeemed, 6,599,999, is based on 32.99% of the IPO shares outstanding prior to the Redomiciliation Merger and represents the maximum number of shares that may be redeemed without precluding the consummation of the Redomiciliation Merger.
 
(j)
To reflect the payment of interest earned by the redeeming shareholders.
 
(k)
Reflects the 200,000 common shares certain of our officers and directors have agreed to surrender for cancellation upon the consummation of a business combination in the event public stockholders exercise their right to have Star Maritime redeem their shares for cash.
 
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 MARKET PRICE AND DIVIDEND INFORMATION
 
Star Maritime’s units commenced trading on the American Stock Exchange under the symbol “SEAU,” on December 16, 2005. Effective on February 27, 2006, Star Maritime’s common stock and warrants began to trade separately under the symbols “SEA,” and “SEA.WS”, respectively, and the units ceased trading. The closing high and low sales prices of Star Maritime’s units, common stock, and warrants as reported by the American Stock Exchange, for the quarters indicated are as follows  

   
Units
 
 Common Stock
 
 Warrants
 
   
High
 
Low
 
High
 
Low
 
High
 
Low
 
2005:
                 
Fourth Quarter (December 16 to December 31)
 
$10.00
 
$9.82
 
NA
 
NA
 
NA
 
NA
 
                                   
2006:
                             
 
 
First Quarter (January 1 to February 27)1
 
$10.25
 
$9.84
 
NA
 
NA
 
NA
 
NA
 
First Quarter (February 27 to March 31)
 
 NA
 
 NA
 
$9.92
 
$9.62
 
$1.25
 
$0.87
 
Second Quarter (April 1 to June 30)
 
 NA
 
 NA
 
$10.16
 
$9.47
 
$1.20
 
$0.87
 
Third Quarter (July 1 to September 31)
 
 NA
 
 NA
 
$9.74
 
$9.45
 
$1.06
 
$0.70
 
Fourth Quarter (October 1 to December 31)
 
 NA
 
 NA
 
$9.90
 
$9.60
 
$0.84
 
$0.55
 
       
 
               
 
       
2007:
     
 
               
 
       
First Quarter (January 1 to January 16)2
 
NA
 
NA
 
$9.93
 
$9.87
 
$0.87
 
$0.72
 
First Quarter (January 17 to March 9)
 
NA
 
 NA
 
$10.02
 
$9.86
 
$1.72
 
$0.72
 
 

Star Maritime's units ceased trading on February 27, 2006. Star Maritime's common stock and warrants commenced trading separately as of this date.
 
2 The last full trading day prior to the announcement of a proposal for a business combination involving Star Bulk.
 
As of March 9, 2007, there were nine stockholders of record of Star Maritime common stock and five holders of record of Star Maritime warrants. Such numbers do not include beneficial owners holding shares or warrants through nominee names.
 
Star Maritime is a blank check company and as a result, has never declared or paid any dividends on its common stock.
 
Stockholders are urged to obtain a current market quotation for Star Maritime securities.
 
Star Bulk’s securities are not currently listed and do not trade on any stock exchange. Star Bulk expects to apply to list its common stock and warrants on the Nasdaq Global Market under the symbols “SBLK” and “SBLKW” respectively. Star Bulk is recently formed company and no dividends have been paid on any Star Bulk securities.
 
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RISK FACTORS
 
You should consider carefully the following risk factors, as well as the other information set forth in this joint proxy statement/prospectus, before making a decision on the Redomiciliation Merger. Some of the following risks relate principally to the industry in which Star Bulk, as the surviving corporation, will operate and its business in general. Any of the risk factors could significantly and negatively affect Star Bulk’s business, financial condition or operating results. The risks and uncertainties described below are not the only ones Star Bulk faces. Additional risks and uncertainties not presently known to us or that we currently deem immaterial may also impair Star Bulk’s business operations.
 
Company Risk Factors Relating to the Surviving Corporation
 
Star Bulk has no operating history and may not operate profitably in the future.
 
Star Bulk was formed December 13, 2006. Star Bulk has entered into agreements to acquire eight drybulk carriers and expects to take delivery of the vessels within sixty days following the effective date of the Redomiciliation Merger. However, Star Bulk has no operating history. Its financial statements do not provide a meaningful basis for you to evaluate its operations and ability to be profitable in the future. Star Bulk may not be profitable in the future.
 
Star Bulk’s senior executive officers and directors may not be able to organize and manage a publicly traded operating company.
 
Only one of Star Bulk’s senior executive officers or directors have previously organized and managed a publicly traded operating company, and Star Bulk’s senior executive officers and directors may not be successful in doing so. The demands of organizing and managing a publicly traded operating company are much greater as compared to a private or blank check company and some of Star Bulk’s senior executive officers and directors may not be able to meet those increased demands.
 
If any of the eight drybulk carriers in Star Bulk’s fleet are not delivered on time or delivered with significant defects, Star Bulk’s proposed business, results of operations and financial condition could suffer.
 
Star Bulk has entered into separate memoranda of agreement with wholly-owned subsidiaries of TMT to acquire the eight drybulk carriers in its initial fleet. Star Bulk expects that the eight drybulk carriers will be delivered to it within sixty days following the effective date of the Redomiciliation Merger. A delay in the delivery of any of these vessels to Star Bulk or the failure of TMT to deliver a vessel at all could adversely affect Star Bulk’s business, results of operations and financial condition. The delivery of these vessels could be delayed or certain events may arise which could result in Star Bulk not taking delivery of a vessel, such as a total loss of a vessel, a constructive loss of a vessel, or substantial damage to a vessel prior to delivery. In addition, the delivery of any of these vessels with substantial defects could have similar consequences.
 
If Star Bulk fails to manage its planned growth properly, it may not be able to successfully expand its fleet.
 
Star Bulk intends to continue to expand its fleet. Star Bulk’s growth will depend on:
 
· locating and acquiring suitable vessels;
 
· identifying and consummating acquisitions or joint ventures;
 
· integrating any acquired vessels successfully with its existing operations;
 
· enhancing its customer base;
 
· managing its expansion; and
 
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· obtaining required financing.
 
Growing any business by acquisition presents numerous risks such as undisclosed liabilities and obligations, difficulty experienced in obtaining additional qualified personnel and managing relationships with customers and suppliers and integrating newly acquired operations into existing infrastructures. Star Bulk may not be successful in executing its growth plans and may incur significant expenses and losses.
 
Star Bulk’s loan agreements may contain restrictive covenants that may limit its liquidity and corporate activities.
 
The new senior secured credit facility that Star Bulk expects to enter into and any future loan agreements may impose operating and financial restrictions on it. These restrictions may limit its ability to:
 
· incur additional indebtedness;
 
· create liens on its assets;
 
· sell capital stock of its subsidiaries;
 
· make investments;
 
· engage in mergers or acquisitions;
 
· pay dividends;
 
·  make capital expenditures;
 
· change the management of its vessels or terminate or materially amend the management agreement relating to each vessel; and
 
· sell its vessels.
 
Therefore, Star Bulk may need to seek permission from its lenders in order to engage in some important corporate actions. The lenders’ interests may be different from those of Star Bulk, and Star Bulk cannot guarantee that it will be able to obtain the lenders’ permission when needed. This may prevent Star Bulk from taking actions that are in its best interest.
 
Servicing future debt would limit funds available for other purposes.
 
Star Bulk expects to incur up to $40,000,000 of indebtedness in connection with the purchase of the vessels in the initial fleet and may also incur additional secured debt to finance the acquisition of additional vessels. Star Bulk may also incur up to an additional $70,000,000 of indebtedness to replace funds from our Trust Account that have been utilized to cover the cost of redeeming stockholders of Star Maritime. Star Bulk may be required dedicate a portion of its cash flow from operations to pay the principal and interest on its debt. These payments limit funds otherwise available for working capital expenditures and other purposes, including payment of dividends. If Star Bulk is unable to service its debt, it could have a material adverse effect on Star Bulk’s financial condition and results of operations.
 
 
The actual or perceived credit quality of Star Bulk’s future charterers, and any defaults by them, may materially affect its ability to obtain the additional debt financing that Star Bulk may require to purchase additional vessels or may significantly increase its costs of obtaining such financing. Star Bulk’s inability to obtain additional financing at all or at a higher than anticipated cost may materially affect its results of operations and its ability to implement its business strategy.
 
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In the highly competitive international drybulk shipping industry, Star Bulk may not be able to compete for charters with new entrants or established companies with greater resources.
 
Star Bulk will employ its vessels in a highly competitive market that is capital intensive and highly fragmented. Competition arises primarily from other vessel owners, some of whom have substantially greater resources than Star Bulk. Competition for the transportation of drybulk cargoes can be intense and depends on price, location, size, age, condition and the acceptability of the vessel and its managers to the charterers. Due in part to the highly fragmented market, competitors with greater resources could operate larger fleets through consolidations or acquisitions that may be able to offer better prices and fleets.
 
Star Bulk may be unable to attract and retain key management personnel and other employees in the shipping industry, which may negatively affect the effectiveness of its management and its results of operations.
 
Star Bulk’s success will depend to a significant extent upon the abilities and efforts of its management team. Star Bulk has only two employees, its Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer. Star Bulk’s wholly-owned subsidiary, Star Bulk Management Inc., or Star Bulk Management, plans to hire additional employees following the Redomiciliation Merger to perform the day to day management of the vessels in the initial fleet. Star Bulk Management does not currently have any employees. Star Bulk’s success will depend upon its ability to retain key members of its management team and the ability of Star Bulk Management to recruit and hire suitable employees. The loss of any of these individuals could adversely affect Star Bulk’s business prospects and financial condition. Difficulty in hiring and retaining personnel could adversely affect Star Bulk’s results of operations. Star Bulk does not intend to maintain “key man” life insurance on any of its officers.
 
As Star Bulk commences its business, it will need to implement its operations and financial systems and hire new vessel staff; if it cannot implement these systems or recruit suitable employees, its performance may be adversely affected.
 
Star Bulk’s operating and financial systems may not be adequate as it commences operations, and its attempts to implement those systems may be ineffective. In addition, as Star Bulk expands its fleet, it will have to rely on its wholly-owned subsidiary, Star Bulk Management Inc., to recruit suitable additional seafarers and shoreside administrative and management personnel. Star Bulk cannot assure you that Star Bulk Management will be able to continue to hire suitable employees as Star Bulk expands its fleet. If Star Bulk Management’s unaffiliated crewing agent encounters business or financial difficulties, Star Bulk may not be able to adequately staff its vessels. If Star Bulk is unable to operate its financial and operations systems effectively or to recruit suitable employees, its performance may be materially adversely affected.
 
Risks involved with operating ocean going vessels could affect Star Bulk’s business and reputation, which would adversely affect its revenues.
 
The operation of an ocean-going vessel carries inherent risks. These risks include the possibility of:
 
· crew strikes and/or boycotts;
 
· marine disaster;
 
· piracy;
 
·  environmental accidents;
 
·  cargo and property losses or damage; and
 
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· business interruptions caused by mechanical failure, human error, war, terrorism, political action in various countries or adverse weather conditions.
 
Any of these circumstances or events could increase Star Bulk’s costs or lower its revenues.
 
Star Bulk’s vessels may suffer damage and it may face unexpected drydocking costs, which could affect its cash flow and financial condition.
 
If Star Bulk’s vessels suffer damage, they may need to be repaired at a drydocking facility. The costs of drydock repairs are unpredictable and can be substantial. Star Bulk may have to pay drydocking costs that its insurance does not cover. The loss of earnings while these vessels are being repaired and reconditioned, as well as the actual cost of these repairs, would decrease its earnings.
 
 
Star Bulk’s inspection of secondhand vessels prior to purchase does not provide it with the same knowledge about their condition and cost of any required (or anticipated) repairs that it would have had if these vessels had been built for and operated exclusively by Star Bulk. Generally, Star Bulk will not receive the benefit of warranties on secondhand vessels.
 
In general, the costs to maintain a vessel in good operating condition increase with the age of the vessel. Older vessels are typically less fuel efficient and more costly to maintain than more recently constructed vessels. Cargo insurance rates increase with the age of a vessel, making older vessels less desirable to charterers.
 
Governmental regulations, safety or other equipment standards related to the age of vessels may require expenditures for alterations, or the addition of new equipment, to Star Bulk’s vessels and may restrict the type of activities in which the vessels may engage. Star Bulk cannot assure you that, as Star Bulk’s vessels age, market conditions will justify those expenditures or enable it to operate its vessels profitably during the remainder of their useful lives.
 
Star Bulk’s worldwide operations will expose it to global risks that may interfere with the operation of its vessels.
 
Star Bulk is expected to primarily conduct its operations worldwide. Changing economic, political and governmental conditions in the countries where Star Bulk is engaged in business or where Star Bulk’s vessels are registered will affect Star Bulk’s operations. In the past, political conflicts, particularly in the Arabian Gulf, resulted in attacks on vessels, mining of waterways and other efforts to disrupt shipping in the area. Acts of terrorism and piracy have also affected vessels trading in regions such as the South China Sea. The likelihood of future acts of terrorism may increase, and Star Bulk’s vessels may face higher risks of being attacked. In addition, future hostilities or other political instability in regions where Star Bulk’s vessels trade could have a material adverse effect on its trade patterns and adversely affect its operations and performance.
 
Star Bulk may not have adequate insurance to compensate it if it loses its vessels.
 
Star Bulk is expected to procure hull and machinery insurance, protection and indemnity insurance, which includes environmental damage and pollution insurance coverage and war risk insurance for its fleet. Star Bulk does not expect to maintain for all of its vessels insurance against loss of hire, which covers business interruptions that result from the loss of use of a vessel. Star Bulk may not be adequately insured against all risks. Star Bulk may not be able to obtain adequate insurance coverage for its fleet in the future. The insurers may not pay particular claims. Star Bulk’s insurance policies may contain deductibles for which it will be responsible and limitations and exclusions which may increase its costs or lower its revenue. Moreover, Star Bulk cannot assure that the insurers will not default on any claims they are required to pay. If Star Bulk’s insurance is not enough to cover claims that may arise, the deficiency may have a material adverse effect on Star Bulk’s financial condition and results of operations.
 
24

 
Star Bulk is incorporated in the Republic of the Marshall Islands, which does not have a well-developed body of corporate law.
 
Star Bulk’s corporate affairs are governed by its Articles of Incorporation and By-laws and by the Marshall Islands Business Corporations Act or BCA. The provisions of the BCA resemble provisions of the corporation laws of a number of states in the United States. However, there have been few judicial cases in the Republic of the Marshall Islands interpreting the BCA. The rights and fiduciary responsibilities of directors under the law of the Republic of the Marshall Islands are not as clearly established as the rights and fiduciary responsibilities of directors under statutes or judicial precedent in existence in certain United States jurisdictions. Shareholder rights may differ as well. While the BCA does specifically incorporate the non-statutory law, or judicial case law, of the State of Delaware and other states with substantially similar legislative provisions, public shareholders may have more difficulty in protecting their interests in the face of actions by the management, directors or controlling shareholders than would shareholders of a corporation incorporated in a United States jurisdiction.
 
Because Star Bulk is incorporated under the laws of the Marshall Islands, it may be difficult to serve Star Bulk with legal process or enforce judgments against Star Bulk, its directors or its management.
 
Star Bulk is incorporated under the laws of the Republic of the Marshall Islands, and all of its assets are located outside of the United States. Star Bulk’s business will be operated primarily from its offices in Athens, Greece. In addition, Star Bulk’s directors and officers generally are or will be non-residents of the United States, and all or a substantial portion of the assets of these non-residents are located outside the United States. As a result, it may be difficult or impossible for you to bring an action against Star Bulk or against these individuals in the United States if you believe that your rights have been infringed under securities laws or otherwise. Even if you are successful in bringing an action of this kind, the laws of the Marshall Islands and of other jurisdictions may prevent or restrict you from enforcing a judgment against Star Bulk’s assets or the assets of its directors and officers. For more information regarding the relevant laws of the Marshall Islands, please read “Enforceability of Civil Liabilities.”
 
There is a risk that Star Bulk could be treated as a U.S. domestic corporation for U.S. federal income tax purposes after the Redomiciliation Merger
 
Section 7874(b) of the Code provides that, unless certain requirements are satisfied, a corporation organized outside the United States which acquires substantially all of the assets of a corporation organized in the United States will be treated as a U.S. domestic corporation for U.S. federal income tax purposes if shareholders of the U.S. corporation whose assets are being acquired own at least 80 percent of the non-U.S. acquiring corporation after the acquisition. If Section 7874(b) of the Code were to apply to Star Maritime and the Redomiciliation Merger, then, among other consequences, Star Bulk, as the surviving entity of the Redomiciliation Merger, would be subject to U.S. federal income tax as a U.S. domestic corporation on its worldwide income after the Redomiciliation Merger. The Redomiciliation Merger has been structured so that upon completion of the Redomiciliation Merger and the concurrent issuance of stock to TMT is under the Acquisition Agreements, the stockholders of Star Maritime will own less than 80% of Star Bulk and therefore, Star Bulk should not be subject to Section 7874(b) of the Code after the Redomiciliation Merger. However, Star Maritime has not sought a ruling from the U.S. Internal Revenue Service, or the IRS, on this point. Therefore, there is no assurance that the IRS would not seek to assert that Star Bulk is subject to U.S. federal income tax on its worldwide income after the Redomiciliation Merger although Star Maritime believes that such an assertion should not be successful.
 
Star Bulk may have to pay tax on United States source income, which would reduce its earnings.
 
Under the Code, 50% of the gross shipping income of a vessel owning or chartering corporation, such as Star Bulk and its subsidiaries, that is attributable to transportation that begins or ends, but that does not both begin and end, in the United States is characterized as U.S. source shipping income and such income is subject to a 4% U.S. federal income tax without allowance for deduction, unless that corporation qualifies for exemption from tax under Section 883 of the Code and the Treasury regulations promulgated thereunder.
 
Star Bulk expects that it and each of its subsidiaries will qualify for this statutory tax exemption and Star Bulk will take this position for U.S. federal income tax return reporting purposes. However, there are factual circumstances beyond our control that could cause Star Bulk to lose the benefit of this tax exemption and thereby become subject to U.S. federal income tax on Star Bulk’s U.S. source income.
 
25

 
If Star Bulk or its subsidiaries are not entitled to this exemption under Section 883 for any taxable year, Star Bulk or its subsidiaries would be subject for those years to a 4% U.S. federal income tax on its U.S.-source shipping income. The imposition of this taxation could have a negative effect on Star Bulk’s business and would result in decreased earnings.
 
U.S. tax authorities could treat Star Bulk as a “passive foreign investment company,” which could have adverse U.S. federal income tax consequences to U.S. holders.
 
A foreign corporation will be treated as a “passive foreign investment company,” or PFIC, for U.S. federal income tax purposes if either (1) at least 75% of its gross income for any taxable year consists of certain types of “passive income” or (2) at least 50% of the average value of the corporation’s assets produce or are held for the production of those types of “passive income.” For purposes of these tests, “passive income” includes dividends, interest, and gains from the sale or exchange of investment property and rents and royalties other than rents and royalties which are received from unrelated parties in connection with the active conduct of a trade or business. For purposes of these tests, income derived from the performance of services does not constitute “passive income.” U.S. shareholders of a PFIC may be subject to a disadvantageous U.S. federal income tax regime with respect to the income derived by the PFIC, the distributions they receive from the PFIC and the gain, if any, they derive from the sale or other disposition of their shares in the PFIC.
 
Based on Star Bulk’s proposed method of operation, Star Bulk does not believe that it will be a PFIC with respect to any taxable year. In this regard, Star Bulk intends to treat the gross income it will derive or will be deemed to derive from its time chartering activities as services income, rather than rental income. Accordingly, Star Bulk believes that its income from its time chartering activities will not constitute “passive income,” and the assets that it will own and operate in connection with the production of that income will not constitute passive assets.
 
There is, however, no direct legal authority under the PFIC rules addressing Star Bulk’s proposed method of operation. Accordingly, no assurance can be given that the U.S. Internal Revenue Service, or the IRS, or a court of law will accept our position, and there is a risk that the IRS or a court of law could determine that Star Bulk is a PFIC. Moreover, no assurance can be given that Star Bulk would not constitute a PFIC for any future taxable year if there were to be changes in the nature and extent of its operations.
 
If the IRS were to find that Star Bulk is or has been a PFIC for any taxable year, its U.S. shareholders will face adverse U.S. tax consequences. Under the PFIC rules, unless those shareholders make an election available under the Code (which election could itself have adverse consequences for such shareholders), such shareholders would be liable to pay U.S. federal income tax at the then highest income tax rates on ordinary income plus interest upon excess distributions and upon any gain from the disposition of Star Bulk’s common shares, as if the excess distribution or gain had been recognized ratably over the shareholder’s holding period of Star Bulk’s common shares.
 
Star Bulk cannot assure you that it will pay dividends.
 
Star Bulk’s intention is to pay quarterly dividends as described in “Star Bulk’s Dividend Policy.” However, Star Bulk may incur other expenses or liabilities that would reduce or eliminate the cash available for distribution as dividends. Star Bulk’s loan agreements, including the credit facility agreement that Star Bulk expects to enter into, may also prohibit or restrict the declaration and payment of dividends under some circumstances.
 
In addition, the declaration and payment of dividends will be subject at all times to the discretion of Star Bulk’s board of directors. The timing and amount of dividends will depend on Star Bulk’s earnings, financial condition, cash requirements and availability, fleet renewal and expansion, restrictions in its loan agreements, the provisions of Marshall Islands law affecting the payment of dividends and other factors. Marshall Islands law generally prohibits the payment of dividends other than from surplus or while a company is insolvent or would be rendered insolvent upon the payment of such dividends, or if there is no surplus, dividends may be declared or paid out of net profits for the fiscal year in which the dividend is declared and for the preceding fiscal year. Star Bulk may not pay dividends in the anticipated amounts and frequency set forth in this joint proxy statement/prospectus or at all.
 
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Star Bulk is a holding company, and will depend on the ability of its subsidiaries to distribute funds to it in order to satisfy its financial obligations or to make dividend payments.
 
Star Bulk is a holding company and its subsidiaries, all of which are, or upon their formation will be, wholly-owned by it either directly or indirectly, will conduct all of Star Bulk’s operations and own all of Star Bulk’s operating assets. Star Bulk will have no significant assets other than the equity interests in its wholly-owned subsidiaries. As a result, Star Bulk’s ability to make dividend payments depends on its subsidiaries and their ability to distribute funds to Star Bulk. If Star Bulk is unable to obtain funds from its subsidiaries, Star Bulk’s board of directors may exercise its discretion not to pay dividends.
 
Servicing future debt would limit funds available for other purposes such as the payment of dividends.
 
To finance future fleet expansion, Star Bulk expects to incur secured debt. Star Bulk must dedicate a portion of its cash flow from operations to pay the principal and interest on its debt. These payments limit funds otherwise available for working capital, capital expenditures and other purposes. Star Bulk’s need to service its debt may limit funds available for other purposes, including distributing cash to shareholders, and Star Bulk’s inability to service debt could lead to acceleration of Star Bulk’s debt and foreclosure on its fleet.
 
Star Bulk may be unable to procure financing arrangements which may affect its ability to purchase the vessels in the initial fleet.

Star Bulk has entered into agreements to acquire the eight drybulk carriers in the initial fleet for an aggregate purchase price of $345,237,520, consisting of $224,500,000 in cash and 12,537,645 shares of common stock of Star Bulk. Star Bulk will fund the cash consideration portion of the aggregate purchase price with funds deposited in the Trust Account that are not utilized to pay Star Maritime's stockholders who have exercised their right to redeem their shares and approximately $40,000,000 in borrowings under a new senior secured credit facility. If Star Bulk is unable to procure financing arrangements prior to the effective date of the Redomiciliation Merger, Star Bulk may not be able to complete the purchase of all eight drybulk carriers.
 
Star Bulk may not be able to borrow amounts under its credit facility which may affect its ability to purchase the vessels in the initial fleet.
 
Star Bulk’s ability to borrow amounts under its credit facility to acquire the initial fleet from TMT will be subject to the satisfaction of customary conditions precedent and compliance with terms and conditions included in the loan documents, at the discretion of the bank; also, to circumstances that may be beyond its control such as world events, economic conditions, the financial standing of the bank or its willingness to lend to shipping companies such as Star Bulk. Prior to each drawdown, Star Bulk will be required, among other things, to provide the lender with acceptable valuations of the vessels in its fleet confirming that they are sufficient to satisfy minimum security requirements. To the extent that Star Bulk is not able to satisfy these requirements, including as a result of a decline in the value of its vessels, Star Bulk may not be able to draw down the full amount under its credit facility without obtaining a waiver or consent from the lender. Star Bulk will also not be permitted to borrow amounts under the facility if it experiences a change of control.

The assumptions underlying Star Bulk’s "Forecasted Cash Available for Dividends, Reserves and Extraordinary Expenses" are inherently uncertain and are subject to significant business, economic, financial, regulatory and competitive risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those forecasted.
 
The financial forecast in Star Bulk’s “Forecasted Cash Available for Dividends, Reserves and Extraordinary Expenses” has been prepared by the management of Star Bulk and Star Bulk has not received an opinion or report on it from any independent registered public accounting firm and the forecast has not been prepared in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles. The assumptions underlying the forecast are inherently uncertain and are subject to significant business, economic, regulatory and competitive risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those forecasted. If Star Bulk does not achieve the forecasted results, Star Bulk may not be able to operate profitably, successfully implement our business strategy to expand its fleet or pay dividends to its shareholders in which event the market price of Star Bulk’s common shares may decline materially.
 
If the Redomiciliation Merger is completed, the Star Maritime warrants, which will be assumed by Star Bulk, become exerciseable and you may experience dilution.

Under the terms of the Star Maritime warrants, the warrants become exerciseable upon the completion of a business combination transaction. If the Redomiciliation Merger is approved, Star Maritime expects to complete the Redomiciliation Merger during the third quarter of 2007. Star Maritime has 20,000,000 warrants to purchase common stock issued and outstanding at an exercise price of $8.00 per common share. Star Maritime warrants will become exerciseable upon the effective date of the Redomiciliation Merger and as a result, you may experience dilution.
 
Registration rights held by Star Maritime's stockholders who purchased shares prior to the Initial Public Offering may have an adverse effect on the market price of Star Bulk's common stock.
 
Star Maritime's initial stockholders who purchased common stock prior to the Initial Public Offering are entitled to demand that Star Bulk register the resale of their shares at any time after they are released from escrow which, except in limited circumstances, will not be before December 21, 2008. If such stockholders exercise their registration rights with respect to all of their shares, there will be an additional 9,026,924 shares of common stock eligible for trading in the public market. In addition, the stockholders who purchased their shares in Star Maritime's Private Placement are entitled to demand the registration of the securities underlying the 1,132,500 units they purchased in the Private Placement at any time after Star Maritime announces that it has entered into a letter of intent, an agreement in principle or a definitive agreement in connection with a business combination. Star Martime has announced Star Bulk's entry into the Acquisition Agreements on January 17, 2007. If all of these stockholders excercise their registration rights with respect to all of their shares of common stock, there will be an additional 10,159,424 shares of common stock eligible for trading in the public market. The presence of these additional shares may have an adverse effect on the market price of Star Bulk's common stock.
 
Star Maritime's directors and executive officers have interests in the Redomiciliation Merger that are different from yours.
 
In considering the recommendation of Star Maritime's directors to vote to approve the Redomiciliation Merger, you should be aware that they have agreements or arrangements that provide them with interests in the Redomiciliation Merger that differ from, or are in addition to, those of Star Maritime stockholders generally. Star Maritime's original stockholders, including its directors, are not entitled to receive any of the Initial Public Offering proceeds distributed upon liquidation of the Trust Account. Therefore, if the Redomiciliation Merger is not approved, the shares held by the Star Maritime's initial stockholders will in all probability be worthless. The personal and financial interests of the members of our board of directors and executive officers may have influenced their motivation in identifying and selecting a taraget business and completing a business coombination timely. Consequently, their discretion in identifying and selecting a suitable target business may result in a conflict of interest when determining whether the terms, conditions and timing of a particular business combination are appropriate and in Star Maritime's stockholders' best interest.
 
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Company Risk Factors Relating to Star Maritime Acquisition Corp.
 
Star Maritime will dissolve and liquidate if it does not consummate the Redomiciliation Merger, in which event its stockholders may be held liable for claims by third parties against Star Maritime to the extent of distributions received by them.
 
If Star Maritime does not consummate the Redomiciliation Merger or another business combination by December 21, 2007, then, pursuant to Article SIXTH of its Certificate of Incorporation, Star Maritime’s officers must take all actions necessary in accordance with the Delaware General Corporation Law to dissolve and liquidate Star Maritime within 60 days of that date. Therefore, Star Maritime will dissolve and liquidate the Trust Account to its public stockholders if it does not complete the Redomiciliation Merger, or another business combination, by December 21, 2007.

Under Sections 280 through 282 of the Delaware General Corporation Law, stockholders of a corporation may be held liable for claims by third parties against the corporation to the extent of distributions received by them in a dissolution of the corporation. If a corporation complies with certain procedures intended to ensure that it makes reasonable provision for all claims against it, including a 60-day notice period during which any third-party claims can be brought against the corporation, a 90-day period during which the corporation may reject any claims brought, and an additional 150-day waiting period before any liquidating distributions are made to stockholders, any liability of stockholders with respect to a liquidating distribution is limited to the lesser of such stockholder’s pro rata share of the claim or the amount distributed to the stockholder, and any liability of the stockholder would be barred after the third anniversary of the dissolution. Although Star Maritime will seek stockholder approval to liquidate the Trust Account to its public stockholders as part of a plan of dissolution and liquidation, it does not intend to comply with those procedures. In the event that Star Maritime’s directors recommend, and the stockholders approve, a plan of dissolution and liquidation where it is subsequently determined that the reserve for claims and liabilities was insufficient, stockholders who received a return of funds from the Trust Account could be liable for claims made by creditors to the extent of distributions received by them. As such, Star Maritime’s stockholders could potentially be liable for any claims to the extent of distributions received by them in a dissolution, and any such liability of Star Maritime stockholders will likely extend beyond the third anniversary of such dissolution. Accordingly, Star Maritime cannot assure its stockholders that third parties will not seek to recover from Star Maritime stockholders amounts owed to them by Star Maritime.
 
The procedures Star Maritime must follow under Delaware law if it dissolves and liquidates may result in substantial delays in the liquidation of the Trust Account to its public stockholders as part of its plan of dissolution and distribution.
 
If third parties bring claims against Star Maritime, the proceeds held in trust could be reduced which would result in a per-share liquidation value receivable by Star Maritime's public stockholders from the Trust Account as part of its plan of dissolution and liquidation that is less than $10.00.

Star Maritime's placing of funds in trust may not protect those funds from third party claims against it. Although Star Maritime will seek to have most, if not all, significant creditors agree to arrangements that will involve them waiving any right, title, interest or claim of any kind in or to any monies held in the Trust Account for the benefit of its public stockholders, there is no guarantee that they will agree to such arrangements, or even if they do that they would be prevented from bringing claims against the Trust Account including, but not limited to, claims alleging fraudulent inducement, breach of fiduciary responsibility or other similar claims, as well as claim challenging the enforceability of the waiver, in each case in order to gain an advantage with a claim against Star Maritime’s assets, including the funds held in the Trust Account. 

Accordingly, the proceeds held in trust could be subject to claims that could take priority over the claims of Star Maritime’s public stockholders, which would result in a per-share liquidation value receivable by Star Maritime’s public stockholders from funds held in the Trust Account that is less than $10.00.

In the event that Star Maritime’s board recommends and its stockholders approve a plan of dissolution and liquidation where it is subsequently determined that the reserve for claims and liabilities is insufficient, stockholders who received a return of funds from the Trust Account as part of the liquidation could be liable for claims made by creditors.

Additionally, if Star Maritime is forced to file a bankruptcy case or an involuntary bankruptcy case is filed against it which is not dismissed, the funds held in the Trust Account may be subject to applicable bankruptcy law, and may be included in Star Maritime’s bankruptcy estate and subject to the claims of third parties with priority over the claims of Star Maritime’s stockholders. Star Maritime’s stockholders could also be required to return any distributions received by them in a dissolution as a preference or under other avoidance or recovery theories under applicable bankruptcy law. To the extent any bankruptcy claims deplete the Trust Account, Star Maritime cannot assure its public stockholders that it will be able to return the liquidation amounts due them.
 
If the Redomiciliation Merger or another business combination is not approved by Star Maritime’s stockholders by December 21, 2007, then the funds in the Trust Account may only be distributed upon Star Maritime’s dissolution.

If the Redomicilation Merger or another business combination is not approved by Star Maritime’s stockholders by December 21, 2007, then the funds held in the Trust Account may not be distributed except upon Star Maritime’s dissolution. Unless and until stockholder approval to dissolve Star Maritime is obtained from Star Maritime’s stockholders, the funds held in the Trust Account will not be released. Consequently, holders of a majority of Star Maritime’s outstanding stock must approve the dissolution in order to receive the funds held in the Trust Account and the funds will not be available for any other corporate purpose. The procedures required for Star Maritime to liquidate under the Delaware General Corporation Law, or a vote to reject any plan of dissolution and distribution by its stockholders, may result in substantial delays in the liquidation of the Trust Account to Star Maritime’s public stockholders as part of its plan of dissolution and distribution.

If Star Maritime does not consummate the Redomciliation Merger and dissolves, payments from the Trust Account to its public stockholders may be delayed.
 
Star Maritime currently believes that any plan of dissolution and liquidation subsequent to December 21, 2007 would proceed in approximately the following manner:

 
Star Maritime’s directors would, consistent with Delaware law and the obligations described in its amended and restated certificate of incorporation to dissolve, prior to the passing of the December 21, 2007 deadline, convene and adopt a specific plan of dissolution and liquidation, which it would then vote to recommend to its stockholders; at such time it would also cause to be prepared a preliminary proxy statement setting out such plan of dissolution and liquidation as well as the board’s recommendation of such plan;
 
 
upon such deadline, it would file a preliminary proxy statement with the Securities and Exchange Commission;
 
 
if the Securities and Exchange Commission does not review the preliminary proxy statement, then, approximately 10 days following the passing of such deadline, it would mail the proxy statements to its stockholders, and approximately 30 days following the passing of such deadline it would convene a meeting of stockholders, at which they would either approve or reject the plan of dissolution and liquidation; and
 
 
if the Securities and Exchange Commission does review the preliminary proxy statement, Star Maritime currently estimates that it would receive their comments approximately 30 days following the passing of such deadline. Star Maritime would mail the proxy statements to stockholders following the conclusion of the comment and review process (the length of which cannot be predicted with any certainty, and which may be substantial) and it would convene a meeting of its stockholders at which they would either approve or reject the plan of dissolution and liquidation.
 
Pursuant to the terms of its certificate of incorporation, Star Maritime’s powers following the expiration of the permitted time periods for consummating a business combination would automatically thereafter be limited to acts and activities relating to dissolving and winding up affairs, including liquidation. The funds held in the Trust Account may not be distributed except upon dissolution and, unless and until such approval is obtained from stockholders, the funds held in the Trust Account would not be released. Consequently, holders of a majority of Star Maritime’s outstanding stock must approve the dissolution in order to receive the funds held in the Trust Account and the funds would not be available for any other corporate purpose.
 
The procedures required for Star Maritime to liquidate under the Delaware law, or a vote to reject any plan of dissolution and liquidation by Star Maritime’s stockholders, may result in substantial delays in the liquidation of the Trust Account to Star Maritime’s public stockholders as part of the plan of dissolution and liquidation.

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Industry Risk Factors Relating to Star Bulk
 
The drybulk shipping industry is cyclical and volatile, and this may lead to reductions and volatility of charter rates, vessel values and results of operations.
 
The degree of charter hire rate volatility among different types of drybulk carriers has varied widely. If Star Bulk enters into a charter when charter hire rates are low, its revenues and earnings will be adversely affected. In addition, a decline in charter hire rates likely will cause the value of the vessels that Star Bulk will own, to decline. Star Bulk cannot assure you that we will be able to successfully charter its vessels in the future at rates sufficient to allow it to operate its business profitably or meet its obligations The factors affecting the supply and demand for drybulk carriers are outside of Star Bulk’s control and are unpredictable. The nature, timing, direction and degree of changes in drybulk shipping market conditions are also unpredictable.
 
Factors that influence demand for seaborne transportation of cargo include:
 
·  
demand for and production of drybulk products;
 
·  
the distance cargo is to be moved by sea;
 
·  
global and regional economic and political conditions;
 
·  
environmental and other regulatory developments; and
 
·  
changes in seaborne and other transportation patterns, including changes in the distances over which cargo is transported due to geographic changes in where commodities are produced and cargoes are used.
 
The factors that influence the supply of vessel capacity include:
 
·  
the number of newbuilding deliveries;
 
·  
the scrapping rate of older vessels;
 
·  
vessel casualties;
 
·  
price of steel;
 
·  
number of vessels that are out of service;
 
·  
changes in environmental and other regulations that may limit the useful life of vessels; and
 
·  
port or canal congestion.
 
Star Bulk anticipates that the future demand for its vessels will be dependent upon continued economic growth in the world’s economies, including China and India, seasonal and regional changes in demand, changes in the capacity of the world’s drybulk carrier fleet and the sources and supply of cargo to be transported by sea. If the global vessel capacity increases in the drybulk shipping market, but the demand for vessel capacity in this market does not increase or increases at a slower rate, the charter rates could materially decline. Adverse economic, political, social or other developments could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations and ability to pay dividends.
 
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Charter rates in the drybulk shipping market are at historically high levels and future growth will depend on continued economic growth in the world economy that exceeds growth in vessel capacity.
 
Charter rates for the drybulk carriers recently have been at historically high levels. Star Bulk anticipates that future demand for its vessels, and in turn future charter rates, will be dependent upon continued economic growth in the world’s economy, particularly in China and India, as well as seasonal and regional changes in demand and changes in the capacity of the world’s fleet. According to Drewry Shipping Consultants Limited, or Drewry, the world’s drybulk carrier fleet is expected to increase in 2007 as a result of substantial scheduled deliveries of newly constructed vessels and low forecasts for scrapping of existing vessels. Continued economic growth in the world economy that exceeds growth in vessel capacity will be necessary to sustain current charter rates. There can be no assurance that economic growth will not decline or that vessel scrapping will occur at an even lower rate than forecasted. A decline in charter rates could have a material adverse effect on Star Bulk’s business, financial condition and results of operations.
 
 
A significant number of the port calls made by  Star Bulk’s vessels may involve the loading or discharging of raw materials and semi-finished products in ports in the Asia Pacific region. As a result, a negative change in economic conditions in any Asia Pacific country, but particularly in China or India, may have an adverse effect on Star Bulk’s future business, financial position and results of operations, as well as its future prospects. In particular, in recent years, China has been one of the world’s fastest growing economies in terms of gross domestic product. Star Bulk cannot assure you that such growth will be sustained or that the Chinese economy will not experience contraction in the future. Moreover, any slowdown in the economies of the United States, the European Union or certain Asian countries may adversely effect economic growth in China and elsewhere. Star Bulk’s business, financial position and results of operations, as well as its future prospects, will likely be materially and adversely affected by an economic downturn in any of these countries.
 
Star Bulk may become dependent on spot charters in the volatile shipping markets.
 
Star Bulk may employ one or more of its vessels on spot charters, including when time charters on vessels expire. The spot charter market is highly competitive and rates within this market are subject to volatile fluctuations, while longer-term period time charters provide income at pre-determined rates over more extended periods of time. If Star Bulk decides to spot charter its vessels, there can be no assurance that Star Bulk will be successful in keeping all its vessels fully employed in these short-term markets or that future spot rates will be sufficient to enable its vessels to be operated profitably. A significant decrease in charter rates could affect the value of Star Bulk’s fleet and could adversely affect its profitability and cash flows with the result that its ability to pay debt service to its lenders and dividends to its shareholders could be impaired.
 
Star Bulk’s operating results will be subject to seasonal fluctuations, which could affect its operating results and the amount of available cash with which Star Bulk can pay dividends.
 
Star Bulk will operate its vessels in markets that have historically exhibited seasonal variations in demand and, as a result, in charter hire rates. This seasonality may result in quarter to quarter volatility in its operating results, which could affect the amount of dividends that Star Bulk pays to its shareholders from quarter to quarter. The drybulk carrier market is typically stronger in the fall and winter months in anticipation of increased consumption of coal and other raw materials in the northern hemisphere during the winter months. In addition, unpredictable weather patterns in these months tend to disrupt vessel scheduling and supplies of certain commodities. As a result, revenues of drybulk carrier operators in general have historically been weaker during the fiscal quarters ended June 30 and September 30, and, conversely, been stronger in fiscal quarters ended December 31 and March 31. This seasonality may materially affect Star Bulk’s operating results and cash available for dividends.
 
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Star Bulk will be subject to regulation and liability under environmental laws that could require significant expenditures and affect its cash flows and net income.
 
Star Bulk’s business and the operation of its vessels will be materially affected by government regulation in the form of international conventions, national, state and local laws and regulations in force in the jurisdictions in which its vessels operate, as well as in the country or countries of their registration. Because such conventions, laws, and regulations are often revised, Star Bulk cannot predict the ultimate cost of complying with such conventions, laws and regulations or the impact thereof on the resale prices or useful lives of its vessels. Additional conventions, laws and regulations may be adopted which could limit Star Bulk’s ability to do business or increase the cost of its doing business and which may materially and adversely affect its operations. Star Bulk will be required by various governmental and quasi-governmental agencies to obtain certain permits, licenses and certificates with respect to its operations.
 
The operation of Star Bulk’s vessels is affected by the requirements set forth in the United Nations’ International Maritime Organization’s International Management Code for the Safe Operation of Ships and Pollution Prevention, or ISM Code. The ISM Code requires shipowners, ship managers and bareboat charterers to develop and maintain an extensive “Safety Management System” that includes the adoption of a safety and environmental protection policy setting forth instructions and procedures for safe operation and describing procedures for dealing with emergencies. The failure of a shipowner or bareboat charterer to comply with the ISM Code may subject it to increased liability, may invalidate existing insurance or decrease available insurance coverage for the affected vessels and may result in a denial of access to, or detention in, certain ports. Each of Star Bulk’s vessels will be ISM code-certified but we cannot assure that such certificate will be maintained indefinitely.
 
Star Bulk expects to maintain, for each of its vessels, pollution liability coverage insurance in the amount of $1 billion per incident. If the damages from a catastrophic incident exceeded Star Bulk’s insurance coverage, it could have a material adverse effect on Star Bulk’s financial condition and results of operations.
 
The operation of drybulk carriers has particular operational risks which could affect our earnings and cash flow.
 
The operation of certain ship types, such as drybulk carriers, has certain particular risks. With a drybulk carrier, the cargo itself and its interaction with the vessel can be an operational risk. By their nature, drybulk cargoes are often heavy, dense, easily shifted, and react badly to water exposure. In addition, drybulk carriers are often subjected to battering treatment during unloading operations with grabs, jackhammers (to pry encrusted cargoes out of the hold) and small bulldozers. This treatment may cause damage to the vessel. Vessels damaged due to treatment during unloading procedures may be more susceptible to breach while at sea. Hull breaches in drybulk carriers may lead to the flooding of the vessels’ holds. If a drybulk carrier suffers flooding in its forward holds, the bulk cargo may become so dense and waterlogged that its pressure may buckle the vessel’s bulkheads leading to the loss of a vessel. If Star Bulk is unable to adequately maintain its vessels, it may be unable to prevent these events. Any of these circumstances or events could negatively impact Star Bulk’s business, financial condition, results of operations and ability to pay dividends. In addition, the loss of any of its vessels could harm Star Bulk’s reputation as a safe and reliable vessel owner and operator.
 
If any of Star Bulk’s vessels fails to maintain its class certification and/or fails any annual survey, intermediate survey, drydocking or special survey, it could have a material adverse impact on Star Bulk’s financial condition and results of operations.
 
The hull and machinery of every commercial vessel must be classed by a classification society authorized by its country of registry. The classification society certifies that a vessel is safe and seaworthy in accordance with the applicable rules and regulations of the country of registry of the vessel and the Safety of Life at Sea Convention or SOLAS. Star Bulk’s vessels are expected to be classed with one or more classification societies that are members of the International Association of Classification Societies.
 
A vessel must undergo annual surveys, intermediate surveys, drydockings and special surveys. In lieu of a special survey, a vessel’s machinery may be on a continuous survey cycle, under which the machinery would be surveyed periodically over a five-year period. Star Bulk’s vessels are expected to be on special survey cycles for hull inspection and continuous survey cycles for machinery inspection. Every vessel will also be required to be drydocked every two to three years for inspection of the underwater parts of such vessel.
 
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If any vessel does not maintain its class and/or fails any annual survey, intermediate survey, drydocking or special survey, the vessel will be unable to carry cargo between ports and will be unemployable and uninsurable. Any such inability to carry cargo or be employed, or any such violation of covenants, could have a material adverse impact on Star Bulk’s financial condition and results of operations.
 
Maritime claimants could arrest Star Bulk’s vessels, which could interrupt its cash flow.
 
Crew members, suppliers of goods and services to a vessel, shippers of cargo and other parties may be entitled to a maritime lien against that vessel for unsatisfied debts, claims or damages. In many jurisdictions, a maritime lienholder may enforce its lien by arresting a vessel through foreclosure proceedings. The arresting or attachment of one or more of Star Bulk’s vessels could interrupt its cash flow and require it to pay large sums of funds to have the arrest lifted which would have a material adverse effect on Star Bulk’s financial condition and results of operations. In addition, in some jurisdictions, such as South Africa, under the “sister ship” theory of liability, a claimant may arrest both the vessel which is subject to the claimant’s maritime lien and any “associated” vessel, which is any vessel owned or controlled by the same owner. Claimants could try to assert “sister ship” liability against one of Star Bulk’s vessels for claims relating to another of its vessels.
 
 
A government could requisition for title or seize Star Bulk’s vessels. Requisition for title occurs when a government takes control of a vessel and becomes the owner. Also, a government could requisition Star Bulk’s vessels for hire. Requisition for hire occurs when a government takes control of a vessel and effectively becomes the charterer at dictated charter rates. Generally, requisitions occur during a period of war or emergency. Government requisition of one or more of Star Bulk’s vessels could have a material adverse effect on Star Bulk’s financial condition and results of operations.
 
World events outside Star Bulk’s control may negatively affect its operations and financial condition.
 
Terrorist attacks such as the attacks on the United States on September 11, 2001, the bombings in Spain on March 11, 2004 and in London on July 7, 2005, and the continuing response of the United States to these attacks, as well as the threat of future terrorist attacks, continue to cause uncertainty in the world financial markets and may affect Star Bulk’s business, results of operations and financial condition. The continuing conflict in Iraq may lead to additional acts of terrorism and armed conflict around the world, which may contribute to further economic instability in the global financial markets. These uncertainties could also have a material adverse effect on Star Bulk’s ability to obtain additional financing on terms acceptable to it or at all. In the past, political conflicts have also resulted in attacks on vessels, mining of waterways and other efforts to disrupt international shipping, particularly in the Arabian Gulf region. Acts of terrorism and piracy have also affected vessels trading in regions such as the South China Sea. Any of these occurrences could have a material adverse impact on our operating results, revenues and costs.
 
Terrorist attacks may also negatively affect Star Bulk’s operations and financial condition and directly impact its vessels or its customers. Future terrorist attacks could result in increased volatility of the financial markets in the United States and globally and could result in an economic recession in the United States or the world. Any of these occurrences could have a material adverse impact on Star Bulk’s financial condition and costs.
 
Risks Factors Relating to the Redomiciliation Merger
 
There may not be an active market for Star Bulk’s common stock or warrants, which may cause its common stock or warrants to trade at a discount and make it difficult to sell your common stock or warrants.
 
Prior to the Redomiciliation Merger, there has been no public market for Star Bulk’s common stock or warrants. Star Bulk cannot assure you that an active trading market for Star Bulk’s common stock or warrants will develop or be sustained after the Redomiciliation Merger or that the price of Star Bulk’s common stock or warrants in the public market will reflect its actual financial performance.
 
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The price of Star Bulk’s shares after the Redomiciliation Merger may be volatile.
 
The price of Star Bulk’s shares after the Redomiciliation Merger may be volatile, and may fluctuate due to factors such as:
 
·  
actual or anticipated fluctuations in quarterly and annual results;
 
·  
limited operating history;
 
·  
mergers and strategic alliances in the shipping industry;
 
·  
market conditions in the industry;
 
·  
changes in government regulation;
 
·  
fluctuations in Star Bulk’s quarterly revenues and earnings and those of its publicly held competitors;
 
·  
shortfalls in Star Bulk’s operating results from levels forecasted by securities analysts;
 
·  
announcements concerning Star Bulk or its competitors; and
 
·  
the general state of the securities markets.
 
The international drybulk shipping industry has been highly unpredictable and volatile. The market for common shares in this industry may be equally volatile.

Star Bulk may choose to redeem its outstanding warrants at a time that is disadvantageous to warrant holders.

Star Bulk may redeem the warrants issued as a part of the units in Star Maritime’s Initial Public Offering that will be assumed by Star Bulk in the Redomiciliation Merger at any time after the warrants become exercisable, in whole and not in part, at a price of $.01 per warrant, upon a minimum of 30 days prior written notice of redemption, if and only if, the last sales price of Star Bulk’s common stock equals or exceeds $14.25 per share for any 20 trading days within a 30 trading day period ending three business days before the notice of redemption is sent. Redemption of the warrants could force the warrant holders to (i) exercise the warrants and pay the exercise price therefor at a time when it may be disadvantageous for the holders to do so, (ii) sell the warrants at the then-current market price when they might otherwise wish to hold them, or (iii) accept the nominal redemption price which, at the time the warrants are called for redemption, is likely to be substantially less than the market value of the warrants.
 
Star Maritime and Star Bulk expect to incur significant costs associated with the Redomiciliation Merger, whether or not the Redomiciliation Merger is completed and the incurrence of these costs will reduce the amount of cash available to be used for other corporate purposes.
 
Star Maritime and Star Bulk expect to incur significant costs associated with the Redomiciliation Merger, whether or not the Redomiciliation Merger is completed. The incurrence of these costs will reduce the amount of cash available to be used for other corporate purposes, including distribution upon a liquidation.
 
As a result of the Redomiciliation Merger, Star Bulk stockholders will be solely dependent on a single business.
 
As a result of the Redomiciliation Merger, Star Bulk stockholders will be solely dependent upon the performance of Star Bulk and its drybulk shipping business. Star Bulk will be subject to a number of risks that relate generally to the shipping industry and other risks that specifically relate to Star Bulk. See “Company Risk Factors Relating to the Surviving Corporation” and “Industry Risk Factors Relating to the Surviving Corporation.”
 
Star Maritime may waive one or more of the conditions to the Redomiciliation Merger without resoliciting stockholder approval for the Redomiciliation Merger.
 
Star Maritime may agree to waive, in whole or in part, some of the conditions to its obligations to complete the Redomiciliation Merger, to the extent permitted by applicable laws. The board of directors of Star Maritime will evaluate the materiality of any waiver to determine whether amendment of this joint proxy statement/prospectus and resolicitation of proxies is warranted. In some instances, if the board of directors of Star Maritime determines that a waiver is not sufficiently material to warrant resolicitation of stockholders, Star Maritime has the discretion to complete the Redomiciliation Merger without seeking further stockholder approval.
 
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FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS
 
This joint proxy statement/prospectus contains forward-looking statements as defined in Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended or the Securities Act, and Section 21E of the Exchange Act. These forward-looking statements include information about possible or assumed future results of operations or the performance of the Surviving Corporation after the Redomestocation Merger, the expected completion and timing of the Redomiciliation Merger and other information relating to the Redomiciliation Merger. Words such as “expects,”“intends,”“plans,”“believes,”“anticipates,”“estimates,” and variations of such words and similar expressions are intended to identify the forward-looking statements. Although we believe that the expectations reflected in such forward-looking statements are reasonable, no assurance can be given that such expectations will prove to have been correct. These statements involve known and unknown risks and are based upon a number of assumptions and estimates which are inherently subject to significant uncertainties and contingencies, many of which are beyond our control. Actual results may differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements include statements regarding:
 
·  
the delivery and operation of assets of Star Bulk, the surviving corporation in the Redomiciliation Merger;
   
·  
Star Bulk’s future operating or financial results;
   
·  
future, pending or recent acquisitions, business strategy, areas of possible expansion, and expected capital spending or operating expenses; and
   
·  
drybulk market trends, including charter rates and factors affecting vessel supply and demand.
 
We undertake no obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statements contained in this joint proxy statement/prospectus, or the documents to which we refer you in this joint proxy statement/prospectus, to reflect any change in our expectations with respect to such statements or any change in events, conditions or circumstances on which any statement is based.
 
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THE STAR MARITIME SPECIAL MEETING
 
Time, Place and Purpose of the Special Meeting
 
This joint proxy statement/prospectus is being furnished to Star Maritime stockholders as part of the solicitation of proxies by Star Maritime’s board of directors for use at the special meeting of Star Maritime stockholders to be held at                    , New York, New York on              , 2007, at 10:00 a.m. The purpose of the special meeting is for Star Maritime stockholders to consider and vote upon a proposal to approve and authorize the Agreement and Plan of Merger by and between Star Maritime with and into its wholly-owned Marshall Islands subsidiary, Star Bulk, with Star Bulk as the surviving corporation. Star Bulk has entered into separate definitive agreements to acquire the vessels in the initial fleet. The eight Memoranda of Agreement relating to the purchase of the vessels in the initial fleet are attached as Appendix A through Appendix H, the Supplemental Agreement is attached as Appendix I and the Master Agreement is attached as Appendix J to this joint proxy statement/prospectus. The Agreement and Plan of Merger is attached as Appendix K. This joint proxy statement/prospectus and the enclosed form of proxy are first being mailed to Star Maritime stockholders on or about             , 2007.
 
Record Date and Voting
 
The holders of record of shares of Star Maritime common stock as of the close of business on the record date, which was               , 2007, are entitled to receive notice of, and to vote at, the special meeting. On the record date, there were 29,026,924 shares of Star Maritime common stock outstanding.
 
The holders of a majority of the shares of Star Maritime common stock that were outstanding on the record date, represented in person or by proxy, will constitute a quorum for purposes of the special meeting. A quorum is necessary to hold the special meeting. Abstentions and properly executed broker non-votes will be counted as shares present and entitled to vote for the purposes of determining a quorum. “Broker non-votes” result when the beneficial owners of shares of Star Maritime common stock do not provide specific voting instructions to their brokers. Brokers are precluded from exercising their voting discretion with respect to the approval of non-routine matters such as the proposed merger, and, thus, absent specific instructions from the beneficial owner of those shares, brokers are not empowered to vote the shares with respect to the approval of such matters.
 
Holders of shares of Star Maritime common stock will have one vote for each share of Star Maritime common stock held by them at the close of business on the record date. Star Maritime warrants do not have voting rights.
 
Required Vote
 
Star Maritime cannot complete the Redomiciliation Merger unless (1) the holders of at least a majority of the issued and outstanding shares of Star Maritime entitled to vote at the special meeting vote in favor of the Redomiciliation Merger; (2) holders of at least a majority of the shares of common stock issued in the Initial Public Offering and the Private Placement vote in favor of the Redomiciliation Merger; and (3) holders of less than 6,600,000 shares of common stock, such number representing 33.0% of the 20,000,000 shares of Star Maritime common stock issued in the Initial Public Offering and Private Placement, vote against the Redomiciliation Merger and exercise their redemption rights to have their shares redeemed for cash.
 
Because the vote is based on the number of shares of Star Maritime common stock outstanding rather than on the number of votes cast, failure to vote your shares (including as a result of broker non-votes), and votes to abstain, are effectively votes “against” the Redomiciliation Merger. A vote in favor of the Redomiciliation Merger is, in effect, a vote in favor of Star Bulk's acquisition of the vessels from TMT. You may vote your shares of Star Maritime common stock by completing and returning the enclosed proxy card by mail or by appearing and voting in person by ballot at the special meeting. Regardless of whether you plan to attend the special meeting, you should vote your shares by proxy as described above as soon as possible.
 
If you hold your shares through a bank, brokerage firm or nominee, you must vote in accordance with the instructions on the voting instruction card that your bank, brokerage firm or nominee provides to you. You should instruct your bank, brokerage firm or nominee as to how to vote your shares, following the directions contained in such voting instruction card.
 
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Holders of more than 10,000,000 shares of common stock issued in the Initial Public Offering and the Private Placement must vote in favor of the Redomiciliation Merger for it to be approved. Messrs. Tsirigakis and Syllantavos, our senior executive officers, and Messrs. Pappas and Erhardt, two of our directors, have agreed to vote an aggregate of 1,132,500 shares, or 3.9% of Star Maritime’s outstanding common stock, owned by them and any shares of Star Maritime common stock they may acquire in favor of the Redomiciliation Merger and thereby waive redemption rights with respect to such shares. All of Star Maritime’s officers and directors have agreed to vote an aggregate of 9,026,924 shares or 31.1% of Star Maritime’s outstanding common stock, held by them in accordance with the vote of the holders of a majority of the shares issued in Star Maritime’s Initial Public Offering.
 
Proxies; Revocation
 
If you vote your shares of Star Maritime common stock by signing a proxy card, your shares will be voted at the special meeting as you indicate on your proxy card. If no instructions are indicated on your signed proxy card, your shares will be voted “FOR” the approval and authorization of the Redomiciliation Merger.
 
You may revoke your proxy at any time before your proxy is voted at the special meeting. A proxy may be revoked prior to the vote at the special meeting in any of three ways:
 
·  
by executing and returning a proxy card dated later than the previous one to Star Maritime at 103 Foulk Road, Wilmington, Delaware 19803; Attention: Corporate Secretary;
 
·  
by attending the special meeting in person and casting your vote by ballot; or
 
·  
by submitting a written revocation to Star Maritime at 103 Foulk Road, Wilmington, Delaware 19803; Attention: Corporate Secretary.
 
Attendance at the special meeting will not, in itself, constitute revocation of a previously granted proxy. If you do not hold your shares of Star Maritime common stock in your own name, you may revoke or change a previously given proxy by following the instructions provided by the bank, brokerage firm, nominee or other party that is the registered owner of the shares.
 
Star Maritime does not expect that any matters other than the proposal to authorize and adopt the Redomiciliation Merger will be brought before the special meeting. If, however, such a matter is properly presented at the special meeting or any adjournment or postponement of the special meeting, the persons appointed as proxies will have discretionary authority to vote the shares represented by duly executed proxies in accordance with their discretion and judgment.
 
Star Maritime will pay the cost of soliciting proxies for the special meeting. In addition to soliciting proxies by mail, Star Maritime’s directors and executive officers may solicit proxies personally and by telephone, facsimile or other electronic means of communication. These persons will not receive additional or special compensation for such solicitation services. Star Maritime will, upon request, reimburse banks, brokerage firms and other nominees for their expenses in sending proxy materials to their customers who are beneficial owners and obtaining their voting instructions.
 
Redemption Rights
 
As provided in Star Maritime’s Certificate of Incorporation, holders of Star Maritime common stock have the right to redeem their shares for cash by voting against the Redomiciliation Merger and electing to have such shares redeemed for cash. The exercise of redemption rights must be made on the proxy card at the same time that the stockholder votes against the Redomiciliation Merger. The per-share redemption price is equal to $10.00 per share, which amount represents $9.80 per share, plus the pro rata portion of any accrued interest earned on the Trust Account (net of taxes payable) not previously distributed to us and $0.20 per share plus interest thereon (net of taxes payable) of contingent underwriting compensation which the underwriters have agreed to forfeit to pay redeeming stockholders, calculated as of two days prior to the consummation of the Redomiciliation Merger. Accordingly, the actual per-share redemption price will fluctuate prior to the date such shares would be redeemed. Based on the amount of cash held in the Trust Account at December 31, 2006, you will be entitled to redeem each share of common stock that you hold for approximately $10.21. If you exercise your redemption rights, then you will be exchanging your shares of Star Maritime common stock for cash and will no longer own these shares. You will only be entitled to receive cash for these shares if you continue to hold these shares through the effective date of the Redomiciliation Merger and then tender your stock certificate to Star Maritime. If the Redomiciliation Merger is not completed, then these shares will not be redeemed for cash. A stockholder who exercises redemption rights will continue to own any warrants to acquire Star Maritime common stock owned by such stockholder as such warrants will remain outstanding and unaffected by the exercise of redemption rights.
 
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Star Maritime cannot complete the Redomiciliation Merger unless (1) the holders of at least a majority of the issued and outstanding shares of Star Maritime entitled to vote at the special meeting vote in favor of the Redomciliation Merger; (2) holders of at least a majority of the shares of common stock issued in the Initial Public Offering and the Private Placement vote in favor of the Redomiciliation Merger; and (3) holders of less than 6,600,000 shares of common stock, such number representing 33.0% of the 20,000,000 shares of Star Maritime common stock issued in the Initial Public Offering and Private Placement, vote against the Redomiciliation Merger and exercise their redemption rights to have their shares redeemed for cash. In order to exercise redemption rights, an eligible stockholder must vote against the Redomiciliation Merger and elect to exercise redemption rights on the enclosed proxy card. If a stockholder votes against the Redomiciliation Merger but fails to properly exercise redemption rights, such stockholder will not be entitled to have its shares redeemed for cash. Any request for redemption, once made, may be withdrawn at any time up to the date of the special meeting.
 
Prior to exercising redemption rights, Star Maritime stockholders should verify the market price of Star Maritime’s common stock as they may receive higher proceeds from the sale of their common stock in the public market than from exercising their redemption rights. Star Maritime’s shares of common stock are listed on The American Stock Exchange under the symbol “SEA.”
 
Adjournments and Postponements
 
Although not expected, the special meeting may be adjourned or postponed for the purpose of soliciting additional proxies. If a quorum is present at the special meeting, any adjournment or postponement may be made without notice by approval of the holders of a majority of the outstanding shares of Star Maritime common stock present in person or represented by proxy at the special meeting. Any signed proxies received by Star Maritime will be voted in favor of an adjournment or postponement in these circumstances. If a quorum is not present at the special meeting, any adjournment or postponement may be made by sending a copy of the notice of the adjourned or postponed meeting to each Star Maritime stockholder by mail, facsimile or other electronic means of communication. In the event the meeting is adjourned, Star Maritime’s board of directors may fix a new record date for the adjourned meeting; in which case, a notice of the adjourned meeting will be given to each Star Maritime stockholder of record on the new record date. If you transfer your shares of Star Maritime common stock prior to such new record date then you may not be entitled to vote on the Redomiciliation Merger. Any adjournment or postponement of the special meeting for the purpose of soliciting additional proxies will allow Star Maritime stockholders who have already sent in their proxies to revoke them at any time before they are voted at the special meeting.
 
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BACKGROUND AND REASONS FOR THE REDOMICILIATION MERGER
 
History of the Agreements to Acquire the Vessels

The first contact between Star Martime and TMT occurred on July 25, 2006 in Milan, Italy following an industry meeting in the area. It came about through the direct introduction of principals of the two parties without the intervention of brokers or finders and as such no finders fees are involved in the Redomiciliation Merger. During that initial meeting attended by Messrs. Nobu Su, Petros Pappas and Koert Erhardt, no proposals or agreements were made; only general information was exchanged about each other’s businesses and Mr. Pappas mentioned the endeavors of Star Maritime and promised to revert with more information. Mr. Erhardt followed up that meeting by calling Mr. Su to inquire whether TMT would be interested in selling any of its vessels to which he received a negative response. The matter was not pursued further until Mr. Su called Mr. Pappas  inquiring further about Star Maritime and on October 5, 2006 Mr. Pappas sent the message he had promised to Mr. Su explaining potential structures for a transaction with Star Maritime. Further to additional communication exchanges, a meeting finally took place on November 9, 2006 with Messrs. Nobu Su, Peter Espig, Petros Pappas, Akis Tsirigakis, and George Syllantavos attending, where the groundwork for a deal was laid. It was followed-up by a conference call on November 23, 2006 attended by members of both parties during which Messrs. Akis Tsirigakis and Nobu Su reached an agreement on the deal. The parties memorialized their agreement in principle by signing a non-binding memorandum of understanding dated November 23, 2006, which summarized the terms of the proposed transaction. In furtherance of the memorandum of understanding, the parties commenced the implementation phase which culminated in the signing on January 12, 2007 of separate Memoranda of Agreement for each of the eight drybulk carriers, the related Supplemental Agreement and the Master Agreement.
 
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Acquisition Target Review
 
On October 4, 2006, Star Maritime entered into an agreement with Bongard Shipbrokers S.A., or Bongard, for purposes of engaging Bongard in connection with sourcing, developing contacts and making referrals for potential target businesses and providing evaluations of such potential target businesses. In exchange for such services, Star Maritime is obligated to pay a contingent fee of $800,000 within thirty days of the closing of a business combination transaction. In the event that Star Maritime does not consummate a business combination transaction, no fees are payable to Bongard pursuant to the agreement.
 
On December 20, 2006, Star Maritime entered into an agreement with Cantor Fitzgerald & Co., or CF&Co., for purposes of engaging CF&Co. as financial advisor in connection with a possible business combination transaction. Pursuant to the agreement, CF & Co. was engaged to provide such services as creating financial models, advising on the structure of a possible transaction with a target business, negotiating agreements on behalf of and in conjunction with management and assisting management with the preparation of marketing and roadshow materials. In exchange for such services, Star Maritime is obligated to pay a contingent fee of $1,250,000, plus expenses of up to $60,000, within thirty days of the closing of a business combination transaction if such transaction is consummated by December 31, 2007.
 
On December 22, 2006, Star Maritime entered into an agreement with Maxim Group LLC, or Maxim, for purposes of engaging Maxim as co-lead financial advisor in connection with a possible business combination transaction. Pursuant to the agreement, Maxim was engaged to provide such services as creating financial models, advising on the structure of a possible transaction with a target business and assisting in the preparation of terms sheets or letters of intent. In exchange for such services, Star Maritime is obligated to pay a contingent fee of $800,000 for any business combination transaction consummated during the term of the agreement (or within six months of the termination date). The agreement terminates on October 31, 2007, unless terminated earlier by either Star Maritime or Maxim upon thirty days’ written notice, or extended by mutual agreement.
 
Other than the proposed Redomiciliation Merger with Star Bulk, which has entered into definitive agreements to acquire eight drybulk carriers, during the period from the date of Star Maritime's initial public offering through November 2006, Star Maritime’s executive officers evaluated 32 prospective transactions in the shipping industry. Exploratory discussions were held with respect to effecting a business combination with 18 of such prospective transactions. These companies were engaged in the drybulk, tanker, offshore supply, passenger cruise, bunkering and oil rig sectors. Star Maritime did not agree to substantive terms of a business combination, or enter into a letter of intent with any of these companies.
 
In evaluating each prospective business combination transaction, Star Maritime’s executive officers considered all or a majority of the following factors:
 
·  
earnings potential of the acquired assets;
 
·  
the ability to redomicile outside of the United States;
 
·  
the ability or willingness of the acquisition target to wait for the period required for the approval process;
 
·  
degree of demand for the provision of seaborne transportation versus the vessel supply in the sectors examined;
 
·  
the willingness of the acquisition target to accept no deposit or a deposit that could be paid from Star Maritime’s working capital;
 
·  
the proposed acquisition price compared to our assessment of potential share price development post-acquisition;
 
·  
the willingness of the acquisition target to accept equity as part of the consideration;
 
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·  
charter rates in the shipping sectors examined;
 
·  
regulatory environment of the international shipping industry;
 
·  
costs associated with effecting the business combination; and
 
·  
the tax implications of each transaction reviewed.
 
The executive officers also considered that the initial target business or businesses that Star Maritime acquires must have a collective fair market value equal to at least 80% of Star Maritime’s net assets (exclusive of the underwriters’ contingent compensation being held in the Trust Account) at the time of such acquisition, as is determined by Star Maritime’s board of directors.
 
Further to exploratory discussions, Star Maritime’s executive officers offered for, or considered offering or entered into negotiations with the prospective business combinations appearing below. All of the prospective business combination other than the proposed transaction were accorded serious consideration by Star Maritime’s executive officers but were rejected prior to reaching an agreement in principle.

Nature of Business
 
Activity Period
 
Reasons for rejection
         
Capesize drybulk carrier fleet
 
March 2006
 
Price disagreement
Tanker fleet
 
March 2006
 
Seller decided not to sell
Luxury cruise line
 
April 2006
 
Did not agree on valuation
Tanker pool operator
 
April 2006
 
Sellers opted for other buyer
Heavy Lift fleet
 
July 2006
 
Star’s proposal deemed low by sellers
Bulk carrier fleet
 
July 2006
 
Down-payment requirements
Tanker fleet
 
August 2006
 
Seller decided not to sell
Reefer fleet
 
September 2006
 
Sector dynamics
Bunkering company
 
October 2006
 
Did not agree on valuation
Offshore Supply vessels
 
Sept/Oct 2006
 
U.S. Jones Act restrictions
Numerous small tanker and drybulk carrier fleets
   
Down-payment requirements needed to combine two or more small fleets into a business combination
 
Reasons for the Redomiciliation Merger

The board of directors of Star Maritime determined that in order to compete in the most favorable manner with other international drybulk shipping companies listed in the U.S. public markets, all of which are domiciled outside of the United States, it was advisable to redomicile to the Republic of the Marshall Islands to benefit from important regulatory and tax advantages available to international shipping companies, particularly with respect to the exemption available under Section 883 of the Code relating to worldwide shipping income.

Satisfaction of 80% Test
 
In accordance with the terms of the Initial Public Offering, it is a requirement that the target of Star Maritime’s initial business combination have a fair market value equal to at least 80% of Star Maritime’s net assets at the time of such acquisition. The Star Maritime board of directors, based on their financial skills, knowledge of and experience in the international shipping industry, determined that it was qualified to make the determination with regard to the net asset requirement. As a result of the Redomiciliation Merger, Star Maritime will merge with and into Star Bulk, with Star Bulk as the surviving corporation. On January 12, 2007, Star Bulk entered into separate MOAs with respect to each of the eight drybulk carriers in the initial fleet, together with the related Supplemental Agreement and the Master Agreement. Based on the independent vessel valuations performed by purchase and sale brokers recognized in the international shipping industry, Star Maritime’s board of directors determined that the aggregate purchase price of $345,237,520, consisting of $224,500,000 in cash and 12,537,645 shares of common stock of Star Bulk to be issued to TMT, as agent for its vessel-owning subsidiaries, which amount was negotiated at arms-length, was fair to and in the best interests of Star Maritime and its stockholders and appropriately reflects the value of the vessels in the initial fleet. In reaching this conclusion, Star Maritime’s board of directors also took into account that Star Bulk may issue up to an additional 1,606,962 shares of Star Bulk to TMT if certain revenue targets are achieved. Star Maritime’s board of directors was satisfied that, consistent with industry practice, the value of the MOAs that Star Bulk entered into are equivalent in value to the underlying value of the vessels to which the respective MOAs relate. On January 12, 2007, 80% of the net assets of Star Maritime was equal to $154.5 million. Accordingly, the board of directors determined that the requirement that the target of Star Maritime’s initial business combination have a fair market value equal to at least 80% of Star Maritime’s net assets is satisfied.
 
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Recommendations of the Boards of Directors
 
Star Maritime. Star Maritime’s board of directors, after reviewing the transaction criteria set forth herein, concluded that the Redomiciliation Merger with Star Bulk and Star Bulk's acquisition of the vessels in the initial fleet from subsidiaries of TMT was a more compelling alternative than other transactions that had been evaluated by it as possible candidates for a business combination. In considering whether or not to approve the Redomiciliation Merger, Star Maritime’s board concluded that the Redomiciliation Merger satisfied the most significant transaction criteria.
 
After careful consideration and after consultation with its financial and legal advisors, Star Maritime’s board of directors unanimously determined that the Redomiciliation Merger is in the best interest of Star Maritime and its stockholders. In reaching its determination, Star Maritime’s board of directors considered a number of factors, including the following:
 
·  
the fact that the merger of Star Maritime with and into Star Bulk with Star Bulk as the surviving corporation is expected to constitute a tax-free reorganization under the Code;
 
·  
the quality of the vessels in the initial fleet, including the average age of approximately 10 years;
 
·  
strong demand for raw materials in recent years by developing countries, particularly China and India, that has resulted in robust growth for drybulk shipping as well as increased charter rates;
 
·  
TMT’s knowledge of and experience in the Asian shipping markets, particularly within the drybulk sector and the related benefits that Star Bulk would derive from Mr. Nobu Su, TMT’s Chief Executive Officer and Chairman, becoming a member and Co-Chairman of the board of directors;
 
·  
TMT’s agreement to procure time charters at minimum charter rates with respect to six of the eight vessels;
 
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·  
the low level of borrowing required to complete the purchase of the vessels which will enable Star Bulk, as the surviving corporation, to expand its fleet with future borrowings; and 
 
·  
the fact that the agreement to purchase the eight vessels from TMT was the result of a comprehensive review conducted by Star Maritime’s board (with the assistance of its financial and legal advisors) of the strategic alternatives available to Star Maritime.
 
Star Maritime’s board of directors also considered potential risks relating to the Redomiciliation Merger, including the following:
 
·  
the possibility that the Redomiciliation Merger may not qualify as a tax-free reorganization under the Code;
 
·  
TMT may fail to deliver the vessels to Star Bulk;
 
·  
TMT may fail to procure charters that meet the minimum charter rates;
 
·  
volatility of charter rates and vessel values in the drybulk sector; and 
 
·  
the risks and costs to the Company if the Redomiciliation Merger is not completed, including the need to locate another suitable business combination or arrangement.
 
The foregoing discussion of the information and factors considered by Star Maritime’s board of directors is not intended to be exhaustive, but includes the material factors considered by it. In view of the variety of factors considered in connection with its evaluation of the Redomiciliation Merger, Star Maritime’s board of directors did not find it practicable to, and did not, quantify or otherwise assign relative weights to the specific factors considered in reaching its determination and recommendation. In addition, individual directors may have given differing weights to different factors. After weighing all of the different factors, Star Maritime’s board of directors unanimously determined to recommend that Star Maritime stockholders vote “FOR” the approval and authorization of the Redomiciliation Merger at the special meeting.
 
Interest of Star Maritime Directors and Officers in the Redomiciliation Merger
 
In considering the recommendation of the board of directors of Star Maritime to vote for the proposal to vote in favor of the Redomiciliation Merger, you should be aware that certain members of Star Maritime’s board and their affiliates have agreements or arrangements that provide them with interests in the Redomiciliation Merger that differ from, or are in addition to, those of Star Maritime stockholders generally. In particular:
 
·  
Star Maritime’s officers and directors were issued a total of 9,026,924 shares of Star Maritime common stock prior to the Initial Public Offering. These shares, without taking into account any discount that may be associated with certain restrictions on these shares, collectively have a market value of approximately $89,998,432 based on Star Maritime’s share price of $9.97 as of March 9, 2007. Except for up to 200,000 shares that may be required to be surrendered by such individuals for cancellation upon the exercise of redemption rights by the holders of Star Maritime's commmon stock, none of the 9,026,924 shares issued prior to the Initial Public Offering to these individuals may be released from escrow until December 21, 2008 during which time the value of the shares may increase or decrease; however, since such shares were acquired for $.003 per share, the holders are likely to benefit from the Redomiciliation Merger notwithstanding any decrease in the market price of the shares. Further, if the Redomiciliation Merger is not approved and Star Maritime fails to consummate an alternative transaction within the requisite period and the Company is therefore required to liquidate, such shares do not carry the right to receive any distributions upon liquidation.
 
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·  
Messrs. Tsirigakis and Syllantavos, our senior executive officers and Messrs. Pappas and Erhadt, two of our directors, purchased an aggregate of 1,132,500 Star Maritime units at a purchase price of $10.00 per unit. Star Maritime’s officers and directors agreed to vote such common shares included in the units in favor of the Redomiciliation Merger and thereby waive redemption rights with respect to such shares. If the Redomiciliation Merger is not approved and Star Maritime fails to consummate an alternative transaction within the requisite period and Star Maritime is therefore required to liquidate, such shares do not carry the right to receive distributions upon liquidation.
 
·  
After the completion of the Redomiciliation Merger, Mr. Tsirigakis will serve as Star Bulk’s Chief Executive Officer and President and Mr. Syllantavos will serve as Star Bulk’s Chief Financial Officer. Star Bulk’s board of directors will be comprised of seven directors. Each of the five current directors of Star Maritime will serve as directors of Star Bulk. In addition Mr. Su and Mr. Espig, each a nominee of TMT, will serve as directors. Mr. Pappas and Mr. Su will each serve as non-executive Co-chairman. Such individuals will, following the Redomiciliation Merger, be compensated in such manner, and in such amounts, as Star Bulk’s board of directors may determine to be appropriate. See “Information Concerning Star BulkCompensation of Directors and Senior Management.”
 
·  
Star Bulk has entered into time charters for two vessels in the initial fleet with TMT. Effective as of the Redomiciliation Merger, Mr. Nobu Su and Mr. Espig of TMT will serve on Star Bulk's board of directors.
 
Star Maritime’s board of directors was aware of these arrangements during its deliberations on the merits of the Redomiciliation Merger and in determining to recommend to the stockholders of Star Maritime that they vote for in favor of the Redomiciliation Merger.
 
Star Bulk. The board of directors of Star Bulk has unanimously determined that the Redomiciliation Merger is advisable and in the best interests of its sole shareholder, Star Maritime, based on the various shipping regulatory and tax advantages of operating an international shipping company domiciled in the Republic of the Marshall Islands versus a United States jurisdiction.
 
Material U.S. Federal Income Tax Consequences
 
We expect that the Redomiciliation Merger will be treated as a nontaxable reorganization for U.S. federal income tax purposes. As a result, Star Bulk will not recognize a gain or loss as a result of the Redomiciliation Merger. In addition, Star Maritime stockholders will not recognize gain or loss upon the exchange of their shares of Star Maritime common stock solely for shares of Star Bulk common stock pursuant to the Redomiciliation Merger. However, a Star Maritime stockholder who solely receives cash in exchange for his or her shares of Star Maritime in the case of redemption will recognize gain or loss for U.S. federal income tax purposes in an amount equal to the difference between his basis for U.S. federal income tax purposes in such shares and the cash received. The federal income tax consequences of the Redomiciliation Merger are complicated and may differ for individual stockholders. We strongly urge each Star Maritime stockholder to consult his or her own tax advisor regarding the federal income tax consequences of the Redomiciliation Merger in light of his or her own personal tax situation and also as to any state, local, foreign or other tax consequences arising out of the Redomiciliation Merger. Further, we do not give any opinion regarding the tax impact in the event that stockholders of Star Maritime determine to exercise their redemption rights and we urge you to consult with your own tax advisor.
 
Accounting Treatment
 
The Redomiciliation Merger will be accounted for as a business combination with Star Bulk as the accounting acquirer. The assets and liabilities of Star Maritime acquired by Star Bulk will be recorded as of the acquisition date at their respective costs, which are considered to approximate fair value, and added to those of Star Bulk. Following consummation of the Redomiciliation Merger, Star Bulk will continue as the surviving company and Star Maritime shall cease. Accordingly, the results of operations after completion of the Redomiciliation Merger will be those of Star Bulk.
 
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Regulatory Approvals
 
Star Maritime and Star Bulk do not expect that the Redomiciliation Merger will be subject to any state or federal regulatory requirements other filings under applicable securities laws and the effectiveness of the registration statement of Star Bulk of which this joint proxy statement/prospectus is part, and the filing of certain merger documents with the Registrar of Corporations of the Republic of the Marshall Islands and with the Secretary of State of the State of Delaware. Star Maritime and Star Bulk intend to comply with all such requirements. We do not believe that, in connection with the completion of the Redomiciliation Merger, any consent, approval, authorization or permit of, or filing with or notification to, any merger control authority will be required in any jurisdiction
 
Appraisal Rights
 
Under applicable Delaware law, Star Maritime stockholders do not have the right to dissent and exercise appraisal rights to demand payment of the fair value of their Star Maritime common stock if the Redomiciliation Merger is completed.
 
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THE ACQUISITION AGREEMENTS
 
The summary of the material terms of the Acquisition Agreements appearing below and elsewhere in this joint proxy statement/prospectus is qualified in its entirety by reference to the  Memoranda of Agreement, or MOAs, the Supplemental Agreement and the Master Agreement, the terms and provisions of which are incorporated herein by reference. The eight Memoranda of Agreement are attached to this joint proxy statement/prospectus as Appendix A through Appendix H, the Supplemental Agreement is attached as Appendix I and the Master Agreement is attached as Appendix J. This summary may not contain all of the information about the Acquisition Agreements that is important to you. We encourage you to read carefully the Acquisition Agreements in their entirety.
 
General
 
Upon the delivery of the vessels in the initial fleet from subsidiaries of TMT, Star Bulk’s fleet will be comprised of two Capesize, one Panamax and five Supramax drybulk carriers. These drybulk carriers will transport a variety of drybulk cargoes such as coal, iron ore and grain. The vessels have a combined cargo-carrying capacity of 691,213 deadweight tons, or dwt, and an average age of approximately 10 years. TMT is a global shipping company with its management headquarters located in Taiwan. TMT has  approximately 50 years of experience in the shipping industry. TMT owns through companies registered in Panama and/or operates or invests in vessels in several shipping sectors, including crude oil tankers, drybulk carriers and liquified natural gas, or LNG, carriers.
 
Purchase Price
 
Pursuant to the Acquisition Agreements, Star Bulk will acquire the vessels in its initial fleet from certain wholly-owned subsidiaries of TMT for an aggregate purchase price of $345,237,520, consisting of $224,500,000 in cash and 12,537,645 shares of Star Bulk’s common stock.
 
Under the Master Agreement, Star Bulk has also agreed to issue to TMT or its nominated affiliates up to an additional 1,606,962 shares of common stock of Star Bulk, which we refer to as the Additional Stock, as follows: (i) 803,481 shares of Star Bulk’s common stock, no more than 10 business days following Star Bulk’s filing of its Annual Report on Form 20-F for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2007, if the gross revenue of Star Bulk and its consolidated subsidiaries which own the vessels exceeds 80% of Star Bulk’s forecasted annual consolidated revenue for such subsidiaries for the fiscal year commencing as of the effective time of the Redomiciliation Merger and ending on December 31, 2007, as will be agreed between Star Bulk and TMT prior to the effective time of the Redomiciliation Merger; and (ii) an additional 803,481 shares of Star Bulk’s common stock, no more than 10 business days following Star Bulk’s filing of its Annual Report on Form 20-F for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2008, if the gross revenue of Star Bulk and its consolidated subsidiaries owning the vessels exceeds 80% of the forecasted annual consolidated revenue for such subsidiaries as will be agreed between Star Bulk and TMT prior to the effective time of the Redomiciliation Merger.
 
On  February 28, 2007, Star Bulk and TMT amended the Master Agreement to provide that Star Bulk’s forecasted annual consolidated revenue for the fiscal year commencing on the effective date of the Redomiciliation Merger and ending December 31, 2007 will be $40,000,000, assuming that the Redomiciliation Merger occurs on June 30, 2007, adjusted pro rata if the Redomiciliation Merger occurs after June 30, 2007, and $90,000,000 for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2008.
 
The Initial Fleet
 
TMT is obligated to deliver each vessel not later than the completion of such vessel's cargo discharge at the last port of the laden voyage following the Redomiciliation Merger. Star Maritime expects that all vessels in the initial fleet will be delivered to Star Bulk by TMT within 60 days following the Redomiciliation Merger. TMT has undertaken to procure the employment of six of the eight vessels under time charters with first class charterers, subject to such minimum terms and aggregate targeted daily time charter hire rates as provided in the agreements and upon standard industry terms for employment of the vessels. Each time charter will be novated to Star Bulk upon delivery of the relevant vessel. TMT has also agreed to procure the time charters with third party charterers or, in the case of the Panamax vessel and, at its sole option, one of the Supramax vessels, with a TMT affiliate as charterer. If the aggregate target daily time charter hire rate is not achieved, TMT has agreed to pay Star Bulk the difference between the aggregate daily hire rate fixed by TMT for the vessels under the time charters and the agreed aggregate minimum daily time charter hire rate.
 
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As of the date of this joint proxy statement/prospectus, TMT has procured charters for four of the eight vessels in the initial fleet in accordance with the terms of the Acquisition Agreements. Two subsidiaries of Star Bulk have each entered into time charter agreements with TMT for the C Duckling (to be renamed the Star Gamma) and the Mommy Duckling (to be renamed the Star Iota). The table below provides summary information about Star Bulk’s fleet:
 
               
Employment
 
Vessel
 
Type
 
Dwt
 
Year Built
 
Type/Term
 
Daily Time 
Charter Hire Rate
 
                               
A Duckling
 
 Capesize
   
175,075
 
 1992
 
 Time charter/3 years
 
$47,500
 
                               
B Duckling
 
 Capesize
   
174,691
 
 1993
 
 Spot
 
 N/A
 
                               
C Duckling
 
 Supramax
   
52,500
 
 2002
 
 Time charter/1 year
 
$28,500
 
                               
F Duckling
 
 Supramax
   
52,434
 
 2000
 
 Time charter/2 years
 
$25,800
 
                               
G Duckling
 
 Supramax
   
52,434
 
 2001
 
 Time charter/2 years
 
$25,550
 
                               
I Duckling
 
 Supramax
   
52,994
 
 2003
 
 Time charter/1 year
 
$30,500
 
                               
J Duckling
 
 Supramax
   
52,500
 
 2003
 
 Spot
 
 N/A
 
                               
Mommy Duckling
 
 Panamax
   
78,585
 
 1983
 
 Time charter/1 year
 
$18,000
 
                               
Totals
         
691,213
             
$178,850
 
 
If TMT is unable to deliver a vessel pursuant to the applicable MOA, Star Bulk and TMT have agreed to confer and cooperate to identify a replacement vessel and enter into a binding purchase agreement for such replacement vessel. If a binding purchase agreement for a replacement vessel is not entered into within 45 days from the required delivery date of the vessel being replaced, Star Bulk will have the right to terminate the MOA for the vessel being replaced. Star Bulk has agreed to pay TMT for the price difference in cash if the purchase price (based on prevailing market rates) of any replacement vessel will be higher than the portion of the purchase price allocated to the vessel being replaced. The payment will be made concurrently with the delivery of the replacement vessel. If the purchase price (based on prevailing market rates) of any replacement vessel is lower than the portion of the purchase price allocated to the vessel being replaced, Star Bulk will benefit from such price reduction. Star Bulk expects that the replacement vessel would be a drybulk carrier of the type being replaced (Capesize, Panamax or Supramax) or if another type of drybulk carrier, would be able to generate equivalent revenue.
 
Under each of the MOAs, TMT warrants that each vessel, at the time of its delivery, will be free of all encumbrances, mortgages and maritime liens or any other debts. TMT will indemnify Star Bulk against all claims made against each vessel incurred prior to delivery and Star Bulk will indemnify TMT against all claims made against each vessel incurred after delivery.
 
TMT Lock-Up Period
 
The Master Agreement generally restricts TMT and its affiliates holding Star Bulk’s common stock issued to TMT as the Stock Consideration, without the prior written consent of Star Bulk, from directly or indirectly offering, selling, hedging or otherwise disposing of Star Bulk’s common stock and from engaging in certain other transactions relating to such securities for a period of 180 days commencing on the effective date of the Redomiciliation Merger.
 
Registration Rights
 
Under the Master Agreement, Star Bulk has agreed, with some limited exceptions, to include the shares of Star Bulk’s common stock comprising the stock consideration portion of the aggregate purchase price and the Additional Stock, which we collectively refer to as the Registrable Securities, in Star Bulk’s registration statement of which this joint proxy statement/prospectus is a part. In addition, Star Bulk has granted TMT (on behalf of itself or its affiliates that hold Registrable Securities) the right, under certain circumstances and subject to certain restrictions, including lock-up and market stand-off restrictions, to require Star Bulk to register the Registrable Securities under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, in the future. Under the Master Agreement, TMT also has the right to require Star Bulk to make available shelf registration statements permitting sales of shares into the market from time to time over an extended period. In addition, TMT will have the ability to exercise certain piggyback registration rights 180 days following the effective date of the Redomiciliation Merger. All expenses relating to such registration will be borne by Star Bulk. Following the Redomiciliation Merger, TMT and/or its affiliates will own 12,537,645 shares of Star Bulk’s common stock entitled to these registration rights and TMT and/or its affiliates may own up to additional 1,606,962 shares of Star Bulk’s common stock entitled to these registration rights in the event that Star Bulk achieves certain revenue targets discussed under the heading “The Acquisition Agreements - Purchase Price.”
 
Director Nominees
 
Under the Master Agreement, TMT has the right to nominate, and Star Bulk and Star Maritime have agreed to cause the appointment and election of two members of the board of directors of Star Bulk, Mr. Nobu Su and Mr. Peter Espig, each of whom shall serve upon the effective time of the Redomiciliation Merger, until their successors have been duly elected and qualified. For so long as Mr. Nobu Su serves on the board of directors of Star Bulk, he will receive the title of non-executive Co-Chairman of Star Bulk. See “Information Concerning Star Bulk - Executive Officers and Directors”.
 
Termination
 
The Master Agreement will terminate and be of no further force or effect in the event that the Redomiciliation Merger is not authorized and approved by the requisite vote of Star Maritime's stockholders.
 
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Expenses
 
Under the Master Agreement, each of Star Maritime, Star Bulk and TMT are responsible for its own expenses in connection with the preparation, negotiation, execution and delivery of the MOAs, the Supplemental Agreement and the Master Agreement; provided that, regardless of whether the Master Agreement or the transactions contemplated by the Master Agreement are terminated, Star Maritime will pay for or reimburse TMT for all reasonable fees and expenses of its legal counsel in connection with the preparation, negotiation, execution and delivery of the Acquisition Agreements up to $25,000. In addition, Star Bulk has agreed to pay all reasonable expenses (including legal fees and expenses) of TMT in connection with soliciting the stockholders of Star Maritime to vote in favor of, and approve, the Redomiciliation Merger.
 
Conditions to the Purchase of the Vessels
 
Conditions to Star Bulk's and TMT's obligations     
 
The obligations of  Star Bulk to purchase the vessels in the initial fleet and the obligations of TMT to sell the vessels are subject to certain conditions. Star Maritime cannot complete the Redomiciliation Merger unless: (1) the holders of at least a majority of the issued and outstanding shares of Star Maritime entitled to vote at the special meeting vote in favor of the Redomiciliation Merger; (2) holders of at least a majority of the shares of common stock issued in the Initial Public Offering and the Private Placement vote in favor of the Redomiciliation Merger; and (3) holders of less than 6,600,000 shares of common stock, such number representing 33.0% of the 20,000,000 shares of Star Maritime common stock issued in the Initial Public Offering and Private Placement, vote against the Redomiciliation Merger and exercise their redemption rights to have their shares redeemed for cash.
 
Conditions to Star Bulk’s obligations
 
The obligation of the Star Bulk to purchase the vessels from TMT is subject to the satisfaction or waiver of the following conditions:
 
·  
due authorization, execution and delivery by TMT of the Master Agreement;
 
·  
the representations and warranties of TMT contained in the Master Agreement must be true and correct;
 
·  
TMT and each vessel selling subsidiary have performed all obligations requested of them under the Acquisition Agreements in all material aspects.
 
·  
the performance of the transactions contemplated in the Master Agreement upon the terms and subject to the conditions set forth in the Master Agreement shall not, in the reasonable judgment of Star Bulk, violate, and shall not subject Star Bulk to any material penalty or liability under, any law, rule or regulation binding upon Star Bulk;
 
·  
no legal or governmental action, suit or proceeding shall have been instituted or threatened before any court, administrative agency or tribunal, nor shall any order, judgment or decree have been issued or proposed to be issued by any court, administrative agency or tribunal, to set aside, restrain, enjoin or prevent the consummation of the Master Agreement of the transactions contemplated thereby; and
 
·  
TMT and each vessel selling subsidiary have performed all obligations required of them under the Acquisition Agreements in all material respects.
 
Conditions to TMT’s obligations
 
The obligation of the TMT to sell the vessels in the initial fleet to Star Bulk is subject to the satisfaction or waiver of the following conditions:
 
·  
due authorization, execution and delivery by Star Bulk of the Master Agreement;
 
·  
the representations and warranties of Star Bulk contained in the Master Agreement must be true and correct;
 
·  
the performance of the transactions contemplated in the Master Agreement upon the terms and subject to the conditions set forth in the Master Agreement shall not, in the reasonable judgment of TMT, violate, and shall not subject TMT to any material penalty or liability under, any law, rule or regulation binding upon any of them;
 
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·  
no legal or governmental action, suit or proceeding shall have been instituted or threatened before any court, administrative agency or tribunal, nor shall any order, judgment or decree have been issued or proposed to be issued by any court, restrain, enjoin or prevent the consummation of the Master Agreement or the transactions contemplated thereby.
 
·  
Star Maritime, Star Bulk or Star Bulk’s vessel purchasing nominees have performed all obligations required of them under the Acquision Agreements in all material respects.
 
Governing Law
 
Each of the Acquisition Agreements is governed by and construed under the laws of the State of New York without regard to conflicts of laws principles.
 
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ACQUISITION FINANCING
 
Acquisition Financing
 
Star Bulk has received indication letters from international shipping lenders that will, subject to the approval of the Agreement and Plan of Merger, provide Star Bulk with a credit facility of up to $120,000,000 with a minimum eight-year term and secured by the vessels that Star Bulk has agreed to acquire from TMT. Star Bulk intends to draw down approximately $40,000,000 under the credit facility at the closing of the Redomiciliation Merger to fund a portion of the cash consideration portion of the aggregate purchase price of the vessels in the initial fleet. The remaining funds under the credit facility may be used to replace funds from our Trust Account used to pay costs relating to the redemption of Star Maritime stockholders who vote against the Redomiciliation Merger and elect to redeem their shares for cash. Any excess un-drawn funds under the credit facility will be used for additional vessel acquisitions and to provide working capital.
 
Star Bulk expects that it will not be required to repay principal under the credit facility during the first 24 months after draw down. Star Bulk expects to enter into a commitment letter prior to the effectiveness of the registration statement of which this joint proxy statement/prospectus is a part and that the credit facility will be effective as of the effective date of the Redomiciliation Merger. Star Bulk expects that the commitment letter referred to above shall contain financial covenants including the requirements that (i) amounts drawn down are not more than [  ]% of the vessels securing the credit facility, and (ii) Star Bulk to maintain the aggregate fair market value of its vessels at a minimum of [   ]% of its aggregate outstanding balance under the credit facility.  Star Bulk believes that following the Redomiciliation Merger it will be able to comply with all covenants required under its commitment letter.
 
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THE MERGER AGREEMENT
 
The summary of the material terms of the Merger Agreement below and elsewhere in this joint proxy statement/prospectus is qualified in its entirety by reference to the Merger Agreement, a copy of which is attached to this joint proxy statement/prospectus as Appendix K. This summary may not contain all of the information about the Merger Agreement that is important to you. We encourage you to read carefully the Merger Agreement in its entirety.
 
Structure and Effective Time of Merger
 
At the effective time of the Merger, Star Maritime will merge with and into Star Bulk, the separate corporate existence of Star Maritime will cease and Star Bulk will be the surviving corporation. The effective time of the Merger will occur as promptly as possible after the satisfaction or waiver of all conditions to closing in the Merger Agreement by filing a certificate of merger or similar document with the Secretary of State of the State of Delaware and the Registrar of Corporations of the Republic of the Marshall Islands. We will seek to complete the Redomiciliation Merger in the third quarter of 2007. However, we cannot assure you when, or if, all the conditions to completion of the Redomiciliation Merger will be satisfied or waived.
 
Merger Consideration
 
Pursuant to the Merger Agreement, each outstanding share of Star Maritime common stock, par value $0.0001 per share, will be converted into the right to receive one share of Star Bulk common stock, par value $0.01 per share, and each outstanding warrant of Star Maritime will be assumed by Star Bulk with the same terms and restrictions except that each will be exercisable for common stock of Star Bulk.
 
Articles of Incorporation; By-laws 
 
The Articles of Incorporation and By-laws of Star Bulk in effect immediately prior to the Redomiciliation Merger will be the articles of incorporation and by-laws of the surviving corporation.
 
Directors and Officers
 
Star Bulk’s board of directors will consist of seven members effective upon the completion of the Redomiciliation Merger. Each of Star Maritime’s current directors: Messrs. Tsirigakis, Syllantavos, Pappas, Erhardt and Søfteland will serve as directors of Star Bulk. In addition, Mr. Nobu Su and Mr. Peter Espig, each nominees of TMT, will serve as directors of Star Bulk. Each of Messers. Pappas and Su will serve as non-executive Co-Chairman.
 
Procedure for Receiving Merger Consideration
 
Exchange Agent. As of the effective time of the Redomiciliation Merger, Star Bulk will deposit with American Stock Transfer & Trust Company, or the Exchange Agent, for the benefit of the holders of shares of Star Maritime common stock, the Star Bulk shares of common stock issuable in exchange for the outstanding shares of Star Maritime common stock. At the time of such deposit, Star Bulk will irrevocably instruct the Exchange Agent to deliver the Star Bulk common shares to Star Maritime’s security holders after the effective time of the Redomiciliation Merger.
 
Exchange Procedures. As soon as reasonably practicable after the effective time of the Redomiciliation Merger, the Exchange Agent will mail to each Star Maritime stockholder of record that participated in the Redomiciliation Merger, a letter of transmittal, with instructions for use in surrendering the Star Maritime common stock in exchange for Star Bulk common stock. Upon surrender of a Star Maritime common stock for cancellation to the Exchange Agent, together with such letter of transmittal, duly completed and validly executed, and such other documents as may reasonably be required by the Exchange Agent, such stockholder will be entitled to receive in exchange therefor the Star Bulk common stock and shares of Star Maritime common stock so surrendered will be canceled. In the event of a transfer of ownership of Star Maritime common stock that is not registered in the transfer records of Star Maritime, a certificate evidencing the proper number of Star Bulk common stock may be issued in exchange therefor to a person other than the person in whose name the Star Maritime common stock so surrendered is registered if certificates representing such Star Maritime common stock is properly endorsed or otherwise in proper form for transfer and the person requesting such issuance pays any transfer or other taxes required by reason of the issuance of Star Bulk common stock to a person other than the registered holder of such Star Maritime common stock or establishes to the satisfaction of Star Bulk that such tax has been paid or is not applicable. Until surrendered, each Star Maritime common stock will be deemed at any time after the effective time of the Redomiciliation Merger to represent only the right to receive upon such surrender the Star Bulk common stock that the holder thereof has the right to receive. Each outstanding warrant of Star Maritime will be assumed by Star Bulk with the same terms and restrictions, except that each will be exercisable for common stock of Star Bulk.
 
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Distributions with Respect to Unexchanged Shares. No dividends or other distributions declared or made with respect to Star Bulk shares with a record date after the effective time of the Redomiciliation Merger will be paid to the holder of any unsurrendered Star Maritime stock certificate with respect to Star Bulk shares represented thereby, if any, and all  such dividends and other distributions will be paid by Star Bulk to the Exchange Agent, until the surrender of such stock certificate. Subject to the effect of applicable escheat or similar laws, following surrender of any such stock certificate there will be paid to the holder of whole Star Bulk shares issued in exchange therefor, without interest, (i) at the time of such surrender, the amount of dividends or other distributions with a record date after the effective time of the Redomiciliation Merger theretofore paid with respect to such whole Star Bulk shares and (ii) at the appropriate payment date, the amount of dividends or other distributions with a record date after the effective time of the Redomiciliation Merger but prior to such surrender and with a payment date subsequent to such surrender payable with respect to such whole Star Bulk shares.
 
No Further Ownership Rights in Star Maritime Securities. All certificates evidencing Star Bulk common stock issued will be deemed to have been issued and paid in full satisfaction of all rights pertaining to the Star Maritime common stock formerly represented by such Star Maritime stock certificates. At the close of business on the day on which the effective time of the Redomiciliation Merger occurs, the stock transfer books of Star Maritime will be closed, and there will be no further registration of transfers on the stock transfer books of the surviving corporation of the Star Maritime common stock that were outstanding immediately prior to the effective time of the Redomiciliation Merger. If, after the effective time of the Redomiciliation Merger, shares of Star Maritime common stock are presented to the surviving corporation or the Exchange Agent for transfer or any other reason, they will be canceled and exchanged.
 
Fractional Shares. No fractional shares of Star Bulk will be issued in the Redomiciliation Merger. The number of Star Bulk shares to be issued to the holder of a stock certificate previously evidencing Star Maritime common stock will be rounded up to the nearest whole share of Star Bulk.
 
Termination of Exchange of Star Bulk Securities. Any portion of the Star Bulk common stock that remains undistributed to the holders of Star Maritime common stock for six months after the effective time of the Redomiciliation Merger will be delivered to Star Bulk, upon demand, and any holders of Star Maritime common stock may thereafter look only to Star Bulk for shares of Star Bulk common stock.
 
No Liability. None of the Exchange Agent, the surviving corporation or any party to the Merger Agreement will be liable to a holder of Star Bulk shares or Star Maritime common stock for any amount properly paid to a public official pursuant to any applicable abandoned property, escheat or similar law.
 
Lost, Stolen or Destroyed Star Maritime Securities. In the event any shares of Star Maritime common stock have been lost, stolen or destroyed, the Exchange Agent will issue in exchange for such lost, stolen or destroyed share of Star Maritime common stock, upon the making of an affidavit and indemnity of that fact by the holder thereof in a form that is reasonably acceptable to the Exchange Agent, the required number of shares of Star Bulk common stock; provided, however, that Star Bulk may, in its reasonably commercial discretion and as a condition precedent to the issuance thereof, require the owner of such lost, stolen or destroyed shares of Star Maritime common stock to deliver a bond in such sum as it may reasonably direct against any claim that may be made against Star Bulk or the Exchange Agent with respect to such shares of Star Maritime common stock alleged to have been lost, stolen or destroyed.
 
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Representations and Warranties
 
In the Merger Agreement, the parties have made customary representations and warranties about themselves concerning various business, legal, financial, regulatory and other pertinent matters. Under certain circumstances, each of the parties may decline to complete the Redomiciliation Merger if the inaccuracy of the other party’s representations and warranties has a material adverse effect on the other party.
 
Conditions to the Redomiciliation Merger
 
The completion of the Redomiciliation Merger is subject to the satisfaction or, if permissible, waiver of a number of conditions, including the requisite approval of the Merger Agreement and the transactions contemplated therein by the stockholders of Star Maritime. We expect to complete the Redomiciliation Merger in the third quarter of 2007, but we cannot be certain when or if the conditions will be satisfied or, if permissible, waived.
 
Termination of the Merger Agreement 
 
The Merger Agreement may be terminated at any time prior to the effective time of the Redomiciliation Merger by mutual consent in writing of Star Maritime and Star Bulk or unilaterally by one party to the Merger Agreement if the other party to the Merger Agreement materially breaches one of its material representation and warranties or fails to comply with a material condition in the Merger Agreement.
 
Effect of Termination
 
In the event of termination of the Merger Agreement by either Star Maritime or Star Bulk, the Merger Agreement will become void and there shall be no further obligation on the part of either Star Bulk or Star Maritime. No party shall be relieved from liability for any breach of the Merger Agreement.
 
Expenses
 
Whether or not the Redomiciliation Merger is consummated, all costs and expenses incurred in connection with Merger Agreement and the transactions contemplated thereunder shall be paid by the party incurring such costs and expenses, except as otherwise specifically provided for in the Merger Agreement.
 
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INFORMATION CONCERNING STAR MARITIME ACQUISITION CORP.
 
General; Initial Public Offering
 
Star Maritime is a blank check company, also known as a Business Combination CompanyTM or BCCTM, organized under the laws of the State of Delaware on May 13, 2005. Star Maritime was formed to acquire, through a merger, capital stock exchange, asset acquisition or other similar business combination, one or more target businesses in the shipping industry. On December 15, 2005, Star Maritime consummated a Private Placement whereby certain of our officers and directors purchased an aggregate of 1,132,500 units at $10.00 per unit, generating gross proceeds of $11,325,000. On December 21, 2005, Star Maritime consummated its Initial Public Offering of 18,867,500 units. Each unit consists of one share of our common stock and one warrant. Each warrant entitles the holder to purchase one share of our common stock at an exercise price of $8.00 per share. Star Maritime’s common stock and warrants started trading separately as of February 27, 2006. The units sold in Star Maritime’s Initial Public Offering were sold at an offering price of $10.00 per unit, generating gross proceeds of $188,675,000. After deducting the underwriting discounts and commissions, the placement fee and the offering expenses, the total net proceeds to Star Maritime from the Initial Public Offering and the Private Placement were approximately $189,125,000 of which $188,675,000 was deposited into a Trust Account, $599,163 was used to repay interest and debt to Star Maritime’s Chairman, Chief Executive Officer and President, Mr. Tsirigakis for a loan advanced to us to cover expenses related to the Public Offering and the remaining proceeds of $533,172, which after payment of $170,000 of additional financing fees, provided us with approximately $363,172, which was deposited and held outside of the Trust Account to be used to provide for business, legal and accounting due diligence on prospective business combinations and continuing operating expenses. The Trust Account is not to be released until the earlier of the consummation of a business combination or liquidation of Star Maritime. During The fiscal year ended December 31, 2006, we incurred $1,211,100 of expenses, $362,172 of such operating expenses were provided by the net proceeds of the Initial Public Offering that were not deposited in the Trust Account, and $847,928 of such operating expenses were provided by distributions of net interest income from the Trust Account, made in accordance with the procedures set forth in the Investment Management Trust Agreement, dated December 21, 2005 between Star Maritime and American Stock Transfer & Trust Company. The net proceeds deposited into the Trust Account remain on deposit in the Trust Account earning interest. As of December 31, 2006, there was $192,915,257 held in the Trust Account, including interest income of $4,240,257. $3,773,500 will be paid to the underwriters of our Initial Public Offering if the Redomiciliation Merger is consummated, but which will be forfeited in part if public stockholders elect to have their shares redeemed for cash.
 
Fair Market Value of Target Business

Pursuant to the terms of Star Maritime’s Initial Public Offering, the initial target business that Star Maritime acquires must have a fair market value equal to at least 80% of Star Maritime’s net assets at the time of such acquisition, determined by Star Maritime’s board of directors based on standards generally accepted by the financial community, such as actual and potential sales, earnings, cash flow and book value. Star Maritime is not required to obtain an opinion from an investment banking firm as to fair market value if its board independently determines that the target business has sufficient fair market value. Star Maritime has not obtained any opinion from an investment banking firm in connection with the Redomiciliation Merger.

Liquidation If No Business Combination

If Star Maritime does not complete a business combination with a target business by December 21, 2007, Star Maritime will be dissolved as a part of a plan of dissolution and liquidation in accordance with the applicable provisions of Delaware General Corporate Law, or DGCL and will distribute to holders of shares that were initially issued in its Initial Public Offering, in proportion to their respective equity interests, sums in the Trust Account, inclusive of any interest, plus any remaining net assets. In the event Star Maritime seeks stockholder approval for a plan of dissolution and distribution and does not obtain such approval, it will nonetheless continue to pursue stockholder approval for its dissolution. Pursuant to the terms of Star Maritime’s amended and restated certificate of incorporation, its directors have agreed to dissolve after December 21, 2007 (assuming that there has been no business combination consummated), and Star Maritime’s powers following the expiration of the permitted time period for consummating a business combination will automatically thereafter be limited to acts and activities relating to dissolving and winding up its affairs, including liquidation. The funds held in the Trust Account may not be distributed except upon Star Maritime’s dissolution and, unless and until such approval is obtained from Star Maritime’s stockholders, the funds held in the Trust Account will not be released. Consequently, holders of a majority of Star Maritime’s outstanding stock must approve its dissolution in order to receive the funds held in the Trust Account and the funds will not be available for any other corporate purpose (although they may be subject to creditor’s claims as discussed elsewhere in this joint proxy statement/prospectus). Immediately upon the approval by Star Maritime’s stockholders of a plan of dissolution and distribution, Star Maritime will liquidate the Trust Account to the holders of shares that were initially issued in its Initial Public Offering (subject to any provision for unpaid claims against Star Maritime which it is advised must or should be withheld). Stockholders of Star Maritime who acquired their shares prior to Star Maritime’s Initial Public Offering have waived their rights to participate in any liquidation distribution with respect to shares of common stock owned by them prior to the Initial Public Offering. There will be no distribution from the Trust Account with respect to Star Maritime’s warrants.
 
Under the DGCL, Star Maritime stockholders may be held liable for claims by third parties against a corporation to the extent of distributions received by them in a dissolution. The DGCL provides for limitations on the potential liability of stockholders if Star Maritime winds up its affairs in compliance with either Section 280 or Section 281(b) of that statute following a dissolution. If Star Maritime complies with either procedure, the DGCL (i) limits the potential liability of each stockholder for claims against Star Maritime to the lesser of the stockholder’s pro-rata share of the claim or the amount distributed to the stockholder in liquidation and (ii) limits the aggregate liability of any stockholder for all claims against Star Maritime to the amount distributed to the stockholder for in dissolution. If Star Maritime were to comply with Section 280 instead of Section 281(b), the DGCL also would operate to extinguish the potential liability of its stockholders for any claims against Star Maritime unless litigation with respect to such claim has been commenced prior to the expiration of the statutory winding-up period under Delaware law (generally three years). In addition, compliance with Section 280 could potentially operate to bar certain claims if the claimant does not take specified actions within certain time frames specified in the statute.

Even though compliance with Section 280 of the DGCL would provide additional protections to both Star Maritime’s directors and stockholders from potential liability for third party claims against Star Maritime, it is Star Maritime’s intention to make liquidating distributions to its stockholders as soon as reasonably possible following any dissolution and, therefore, it does not expect that its board of directors will elect to comply with the more complex procedures of Section 280. Because Star Maritime will most likely not be complying with Section 280, it will seek stockholder approval to comply with Section 281(b) of the DGCL, requiring it to adopt a plan of dissolution that will provide for its payment, based on facts known to it at such time, of (i) all existing claims, (ii) all pending claims and (iii) all claims that may be potentially brought against Star Maritime within the subsequent ten years. As such, Star Maritime’s stockholders could potentially be liable for any claims to the extent of distributions received by them in a dissolution and any such liability of Star Maritime’s stockholders will likely extent beyond the third anniversary of such dissolution. Because Star Maritime is a blank check company, rather than an operating company, and its operations have been limited to searching for prospective target businesses to acquire, the only other claims likely to arise would be from its vendors (such as accountants, lawyers, investment bankers, etc.). Star Maritime intends to attempt to enter into arrangements with most, if not all significant creditors whereby they agree to waive any right, title, interest or claim of any kind in or to any monies held in the Trust Account. As a result of this, Star Maritime believes that claims that could be made against Star Maritime would be significantly limited and the likelihood that any such claim would result in any liability extending to the Trust Account would be minimal. There is no guarantee that the creditors will agree to such arrangements, or even if they do that they would be prevented from bringing claims against the Trust Account.

Star Maritime expects that all costs associated with the implementation and completion of its plan of dissolution and liquidation, which it currently estimates to be approximately $60,000 to $85,000, will be funded by any funds not held in the Trust Account. There currently are not, and may not at that time, be sufficient funds for such purpose, in which event Star Maritime would have to seek funding or other accommodation to complete the dissolution and liquidation.

Star Maritime currently believes that any plan of dissolution and distribution would proceed in the following manner:

·  
its board of directors will, consistent with its obligations described in its charter to dissolve, prior to the passing of such deadline, convene and adopt a specific plan of dissolution and distribution, which it will then vote to recommend to its stockholders; at such time it will also cause to be prepared a preliminary proxy statement setting out such plan of dissolution and distribution and the board’s recommendation of such plan;
   
·  
upon such deadline, it would file the preliminary proxy statement with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC);
   
·  
if the SEC does not review the preliminary proxy statement, then approximately ten days following the passing of such deadline, it will mail the proxy statement to its stockholders, and approximately 30 days following the passing of such deadline it will convene a meeting of its stockholders at which they will either approve or reject the plan of dissolution and distribution; and
   
·  
if the SEC does review the preliminary proxy statement, Star Maritime estimates that it will receive its comments approximately 30 days following the passing of such deadline. It will mail the proxy statements to its stockholders following the conclusion of the comment and review process (the length of which cannot be predicted with certainty), and it will convene a meeting of its stockholders at which it will either approve or reject its plan of dissolution and distribution.

In the event Star Maritime seeks stockholder approval for a plan of dissolution and distribution and does not obtain such approval, it will nonetheless continue to pursue stockholder approval for its dissolution. Pursuant to the terms of its charter, its powers following the expiration of the permitted time period for consummating a business combination will automatically thereafter be limited to acts and activities relating to dissolving and winding up its affairs, including liquidation. The funds held in the Trust Account may not be distributed except upon Star Maritime’s dissolution (subject to third party claims as aforesaid) and, unless and until such approval is obtained from its stockholders, the funds held in its Trust Account will not be released (subject to such claims). Consequently, holders of a majority of Star Maritime’s outstanding stock must approve its dissolution in order to receive the funds held in the Trust Account and the funds will not be available for any other corporate purpose (although they may be subject to such claims). In addition, if Star Maritime seeks approval from its stockholders to consummate a business combination within 30 days of December 21, 2007, the date by which it is required to consummate a business combination, the proxy statement related to such business combination will also seek stockholder approval for its board’s recommended plan of distribution and dissolution, in the event its stockholders do not approve such business combination. If no proxy statement seeking the approval of its stockholders for a business combination has been filed 30 days prior to December 21, 2007, Star Maritime’s board will, prior to such date, convene, adopt and recommend to its stockholders a plan of dissolution and distribution and on such date file a proxy statement with the SEC seeking stockholder approval for such plan. Immediately upon the approval by Star Maritime’s stockholders of its plan of dissolution and distribution, Star Maritime will liquidate the Trust Account to the holders of its shares initially purchased in its Initial Public Offering.
 
Property
 
Star Maritime maintains its executive offices at 103 Foulk Road, Wilmington, Delaware 19803 and its telephone number is (302) 656-1950. We sublease these premises from Blue Diamond Realty, LLC, a Delaware limited liability company, or Blue Diamond. The sublease is for a thirteen month term effective December 1, 2006 through December 31, 2007, with an automatic renewal each year for an additional one year period, unless Star Maritime or Blue Diamond gives the other party at least 90 days written notice of its intent to terminate the sublease. The annual base rent and administrative services fees in the aggregate of $4,000 payable to Blue Diamond on January 1 each year. Such fees are subject to adjustment annually in the event of an increase in cost of living, by the percentage by which the US Consumer Price Index, All Urban Consumers, All Items has increased since the previous anniversary of the Agreement.
 
Employees
 
Star Maritime does not have any full time employees. Star Maritime has four officers, two of whom are also members of its board of directors. These individuals are not obligated to contribute any specific number of hours per week and since Star Maritime’s initial public offering, have devoted such time as they deem necessary to Star Maritime’s affairs. The amount of time they devote in any time period varies based on the availability of suitable target businesses to investigate.
 
Legal Proceedings
 
Star Maritime is not currently a party to any litigation, and is not aware of any threatened litigation that would have a material adverse effect on its business.
 
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Directors and Executive Officers
 
Mr. Prokopios (Akis) Tsirigakis serves as Chairman, Chief Executive Officer and President. Mr. George Syllantavos serves as Chief Financial Officer and director. Mr. Christo Anagnostou serves as Vice President of Operations. Mr. Niko Nikiforos serves as Vice President of Business Development. Mr. Petros Pappas, Mr. Koert Erhardt and Mr. Tom Søfteland each serve as directors.

Set for the below is the biographical information for each of Mr. Anagnostou, who is 58 years old, and Mr. Nikiforos, who is 42 years old.
 
Christo Anagnostou has been Star Maritime’s Vice President of Operations since inception. Since May 2005, he has been the General Manager of Combine Marine Inc., and since November 1999, he has been the General and Marine Operations Manager of Oceanbulk Maritime S.A., each of which are part of the Oceanbulk Group. In his capacities at Combine Marine Inc. and Oceanbulk Maritime S.A., he has been responsible for vessel acquisition and disposition transactions and the daily operational management of up to 32 vessels. From 1992 to October 1999, he served as the Operations Manager for Cardiff Marine Inc., a shipping management company which at the time had a fleet of over 35 oceangoing drybulk, tanker, reefer and container vessels. From 1981 to 1991, Mr. Anagnostou was the Operations Manager for Hydroussa Shipping Co, Ltd., and from 1974 to 1977, he was a Ship Operator for N.J. Goulandris (London) Ltd., both of which are ship management companies based in London, England. He is a Supporting Member of the London Maritime Arbitrators Association. Mr. Anagnostou received his B.Sc. in Economics from Athens Graduate University of Economics and Business Science and did his post graduate studies in Shipping Management at the London School of Foreign Trade, Morley College - London.
 
Niko Nikiforos has been Star Maritime’s Vice President of Business Development since inception. Since September 1997, he has been the Managing Director of Oceanbulk Shipping and Trading S.A., which provides ocean transportation solutions for international commodity companies and which, since December 2002, operates a regular liner service between the United States and South America. Since 1997, he has also been the Managing Director of Interchart Shipping Inc., which specializes in chartering dry cargo ships and serves as the exclusive chartering broker for the Oceanbulk Group. Since 1997, he has been the Commercial Director of Oceanbulk Maritime S.A. From 1995 to 1997, he served as a Shipbroker for Link Maritime Enterprises S.A., a ship brokering company. Mr. Nikiforos received his Diploma in Shipping from the London School of Foreign Trade.
 
For further information concerning the senior executive officers and directors of Star Maritime, please read “Information Concerning Star Bulk Carriers Corp. - Directors and Executive Officers.”
 
Star Maritime’s board of directors is divided into three classes with only one class of directors being elected in each year and each class serving a three-year term. At the first annual meeting of shareholders which took place on February 26, 2007, Petros Pappas was re-elected as a Class I director. The term of office of the second class of directors, consisting of Koert Erhardt and Tom Søfteland, would expire at the second annual meeting. The term of office of the third class of directors, consisting of Akis Tsirigakis and George Syllantavos, would expire at the third annual meeting.
 
Executive Compensation
 
No executive officer has received any cash compensation for services rendered and no compensation of any kind, including finder’s and consulting fees, will be paid to any of Star Maritime’s officers and directors, or any of their respective affiliates, for services rendered prior to or in connection with the Redomiciliation Merger. However, these individuals will be reimbursed for any out-of-pocket expenses incurred in connection with activities on Star Maritime’s behalf such as identifying potential target businesses and performing due diligence on suitable business combinations. There is no limit on the amount of these out-of-pocket expenses and there will be no review of the reasonableness of the expenses by anyone other than our board of directors, which includes persons who may seek reimbursement, or a court of competent jurisdiction if such reimbursement is challenged.
 
54

 
Star Maritime Principal Stockholders
 
The following table sets forth, as of March 2, 2007, certain information regarding beneficial ownership of Star Maritime’s common stock by each person who is known by Star Maritime to beneficially own more than 5% of its common stock. The table also identifies the stock ownership of each of Star Maritime’s directors, each of its officers, and all directors and officers as a group. Except as otherwise indicated, the stockholders listed in the table have sole voting and investment powers with respect to the shares indicated.
 
Shares of common stock which an individual or group has a right to acquire within 60 days pursuant to the exercise or redemption of options, warrants or other similar convertible or derivative securities are deemed to be outstanding for the purpose of computing the percentage ownership of such individual or group, but are not deemed to be outstanding for the purpose of computing the percentage ownership of any other person shown in the table.
 
 Address of Beneficial Owner(1)  
Amount and
Nature of
Beneficial
Ownership(2)(3)
 
 
Approximate
Percentage of
Outstanding
Common Stock
 
Prokopios (Akis) Tsirigakis
 
 4,007,392
 
 12.6%
George Syllantavos
 
 1,486,539
 
 4.66%
Christo Anagnostou
 
    116,108
 
 *
Niko Nikiforos
 
    116,108
 
 *
Petros Pappas
 
 3,947,873
 
 11.53%
Koert Erhardt
 
    340,269
 
 *
Tom Søfteland
 
    145,135
 
 *
Directors and executive officers as a group (7 individuals)
 
10,159,424
 
35.0%
Acqua Wellington North American Equities, Ltd. (5)
 
 1,550,400
 
 5.34%
The Apogee Fund, Ltd. (5)
 
   233,410
 
 *
The Baupost Group, L.L.C. (7)  
2,845,200
 
 9.8%
Fir Tree Recovery (4)
 
   405,533
 
 1.4%
Sapling, LLC (4)
 
2,112,630
 
 7.3%
Satellite Advisors, LLC (5)
 
   620,080
 
 2.14%
Satellite Asset Management, L.P. (5)
 
 2,961,787
 
 10.20%
Satellite Fund II, LP (5)
 
   521,840
 
 1.8%
Satellite Fund IV, LP (5)
 
     98,240
 
 *
Satellite Fund Management LLC (5)
 
 2,961,787
 
 10.20%
Satellite Overseas Fund IX, Ltd. (5)
 
   108,210
 
 *
Satellite Overseas Fund V, Ltd. (5)
 
   112,890
 
 *
Satellite Overseas Fund VI, Ltd. (5)
 
     49,110
 
 *
Satellite Overseas Fund VII, Ltd. (5)
 
     38,960
 
 *
Satellite Overseas Fund VIII, Ltd. (5)
 
     64,040
 
 *
Satellite Overseas Fund, Ltd. (5)
 
 1,234,087
 
 4.25%
Satellite Strategic Finance Partners, Ltd. (5)
 
   501,000
 
 1.73%
 

*less than one (1%) percent.
 
(1)
Unless otherwise indicated, the business address of each of the individuals is c/o Star Maritime, 103 Foulk Road, Wilmington, Delaware 19803 and its telephone number is (302) 656-1950.
 
(2)
Does not include shares of common stock issuable upon exercise of warrants that are not exercisable in the next 60 days.
   
(3)
Our officers and directors have agreed to surrender to us for cancellation up to an aggregate of 200,000 shares in the event, and to the extent, stockholders exercise their right to redeem their shares for cash upon a business combination. The share amounts do not reflect any surrender of shares.
 
(4)
Derived from a joint filing of a Schedule 13G/A on February 14, 2007 filed by Sapling, LLC and Fir Tree Recovery. Fir Tree, Inc. is the investment manager of both Sapling LLC and Fir Tree Recovery.
 
55

  
(5)
Derived from a joint filing of a Schedule 13G on October 2, 2006 by Satellite I, Satellite II, Satellite IV (collectively, the "Delaware Funds") over which Satellite Advisors has discretionary trading authority, as general partner, and (ii) Satellite Overseas, Apogee, Satellite Overseas V, Satellite Overseas VI, Satellite Overseas VII, Satellite Overseas VIII, Satellite Overseas IX and SSFP (collectively, the "Offshore Funds" and together with the Delaware Funds, the "Satellite Funds") over which Satellite Asset Management has discretionary investment trading authority. The general partner of Satellite Asset Management is Satellite Fund Management. Satellite Fund Management and Satellite Advisors each share the same four members that make investment decisions on behalf of the Satellite Funds.
  
(6)
Derived from a filing of a Schedule 13G on February 1, 2007 by Acqua Wellington North American Equities, Ltd.
   
(7)  Derived from a filing of a Schedule 13G on February 13, 2007 by The Baupost Group, L.L.C.
 
56

 
STAR MARITIME SELECTED FINANCIAL INFORMATION
 
Star Maritime Acquisition Corp. was incorporated in Delaware on May 13, 2005 to serve as a vehicle for the acquisition through a merger, capital stock exchange, asset acquisition, or other similar business combination with one or more target businesses in the shipping industry. A target business includes one or more entities with agreements to acquire vessels or an operating business in the shipping industry. Star Maritime has not acquired an entity as of December 31, 2006. Star Maritime has selected December 31 as its fiscal year end. Star Maritime is considered to be in the development stage and is subject to the risks associated with activities of development stage companies. The selected financial information set forth below should be read in conjunction with the audited financial statements of Star Maritime and related notes included elsewhere in this joint proxy statement/prospectus.
 
(a development stage company)
 
Balance Sheet
 
 
 
December 31, 2006
 
December 31, 2005
 
ASSETS
         
Current Assets
         
Cash
 
$
2,118,141
 
$
593,281
 
Investments in trust account
   
192,915,257
   
188,858,542
 
Prepaid expenses and other current assets
   
149,647
   
118,766
 
 
         
Total Current Assets
   
195,183,045
   
189,570,589
 
 
         
Property and Equipment, net
   
3,256
   
-
 
Deferred tax asset
   
-
   
9,000
 
 
         
TOTAL ASSETS
 
$
195,186,301
 
$
189,579,589
 
 
         
LIABILITIES & STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY
         
Liabilities
         
Accounts payable & accrued expenses
 
$
603,520
 
$
344,638
 
Deferred Interest on investments
   
2,163,057
       
Deferred underwriting fees
   
4,000,000
   
4,000,000
 
Income taxes payable
   
206,687
   
   
 
Total Liabilities
   
6,973,264
   
4,344,638
 
Common Stock, $.0001 par value, 6,599,999 shares subject to possible redemption, at redemption value of $9.80 per share
   
64,679,990
   
64,679,990
 
 
         
Commitments
         
 
         
Stockholders’ Equity
         
Preferred Stock, $.0001 par value; authorized, 1,000,000 shares; none issued or outstanding
   
-
     
Common Stock, $.0001 par value, authorized, 100,000,000 shares; 29,026,924 shares issued and outstanding
   
2,903
   
2,903
 
(including 6,599,999 shares subject to possible redemption)
         
Additional paid in capital
   
120,441,727
   
120,441,727
 
Earnings accumulated in the development stage
   
3,088,417
   
110,331
 
Total Stockholders’ Equity
   
123,533,047
   
120,554,961
 
 
         
TOTAL LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY
 
$
195,186,301
 
$
189,579,589
 
 
57

 
Star Maritime Acquisition Corp.
(a development stage company)
 
Statement of Income
 
 
 
 For the Year
Ended
December 31,
2006
 
May 13, 2005
(date of inception)
to
December 31,
2005
 
May 13, 2005
(date of inception)
to
December 31,
2006
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
Operating expenses
             
Professional fees
 
$
596,423
 
$
19,600
 
$
616,023
 
Insurance
   
112,242
   
4,234
   
116,476
 
Due diligence costs
   
262,877
   
-
   
262,877
 
Other
   
239,558
   
26,377
   
265,935
 
Total operating expenses
   
1,211,100
   
50,211
   
1,261,311
 
                     
Interest income
   
4,395,873
   
183,542
   
4,579,415
 
Income before provision for income taxes
   
3,184,773
   
133,331
   
3,318,104
 
Provision for income taxes
   
206,687
   
23,000
   
229,687
 
Net income
 
$
2,978,086
 
$
110,331
 
$
3,088,417
 
Earnings per share (basic and diluted)
 
$
0.10
 
$
0.01
 
$
0.14
 
Weighted average shares outstanding - basic and diluted
   
29,026,924
   
9,918,282
   
21,601,120
 
 
58

 
Star Maritime Acquisition Corp.
(a development stage company)
 


   
Common Stock
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Shares
 
Amount
 
Additional paid-in capital
 
Earnings accumulated in the development stage
 
Total stockholders' equity
 
May 13, 2005 (inception) to December 31, 2006
                     
                       
Stock Issuance on May 17, 2005 at $.003 per share
   
9,026,924
 
$
903
 
$
24,097
 
$
-
 
$
25,000
 
                                 
Private placement issued December 15, 2005 at $10 per share
   
1,132,500
   
113
   
11,324,887
         
11,325,000
 
                                 
Common shares issued December 21, 2005 at $10 per share
   
18,867,500
   
1,887
   
188,673,113
         
188,675,000
 
                                 
Expenses of offerings
               
(14,900,380
)
       
(14,900,380
)
                                 
Proceeds subject to possible redemption of 6,599,999 shares
               
(64,679,990
)
       
(64,679,990
)
                                 
Net income for the period May 13, 2005 (inception) to December 31, 2005
   
-
   
-
   
-
   
110,331
   
110,331
 
                                 
Balance, December 31, 2005
   
29,026,924
 
$
2,903
 
$
120,441,727
 
$
110,331
 
$
120,554,961
 
                                 
Net income for the year ended December 31, 2006
   
-
   
-
   
-
   
2,978,086
   
2,978,086
 
                                 
Balance, December 31, 2006
 
 
29,026,924
 
$
2,903
 
$
120,441,727
 
$
3,088,417
 
$
123,533,047
 
 
59

 
Star Maritime Acquisition Corp.
(a development stage company)
 
 
   
For the Year Ended
 December 31,
2006
 
May 13, 2005 (date of inception) to December 31, 2005
 
May 13, 2005 (date of inception) to December 31, 2006
 
Cash flows from operating activities:
             
Net Income
 
$
2,978,086
 
$
110,331
 
$
3,088,417
 
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash used in operating activities:
             
Depreciation
   
408
       
408
 
Changes in operating assets and liabilities:
           
-
 
Increase in value of trust account
   
(4,056,715
)
 
(183,542
)
 
(4,240,257
)
Increase in prepaid expenses and other current assets
   
(30,881
)
 
(118,766
)
 
(149,647
)
Decrease (increase) in deferred tax asset
   
9,000
   
(9,000
)
 
-
 
Increase in accounts payable and accrued expenses
   
429,467
   
174,053
   
603,520
 
Increase in deferred interest
   
2,163,057
   
-
   
2,163,057
 
Increase in taxes payable
   
206,687
   
-
   
206,687
 
Net cash provided by (used in) operating activities
   
1,699,109
   
(26,924
)
 
1,672,185
 
 
                   
Cash flows from investing activities:
             
Payment to trust account
   
-
   
(188,675,000
)
 
(188,675,000
)
Capital expenditures
   
(3,664
)
 
-
   
(3,664
)
Net cash used in investing activities
   
(3,664
)
 
(188,675,000
)
 
(188,678,664
)
 
                   
Cash flows from financing activities:
             
Gross proceeds from public offering
       
188,675,000
   
188,675,000
 
Gross proceeds from private placement
       
11,325,000
   
11,325,000
 
Proceeds of note payable to stockholder
   
-
   
590,000
   
590,000
 
Repayment of note payable to stockholder
   
-
   
(590,000
)
 
(590,000
)
Proceeds from sale of shares of common stock
   
-
   
25,000
   
25,000
 
Payment of offering costs
   
(170,585
)
 
(10,729,795
)
 
(10,900,380
)
Net cash provided by financing activities
   
(170,585
)
 
189,295,205
   
189,124,620
 
                     
Net cash increase for period
   
1,524,860
   
593,281
   
2,118,141
 
                     
Cash at beginning of period
   
593,281
   
-
   
-
 
Cash at end of period
 
$
2,118,141
 
$
593,281
 
$
2,118,141
 
Supplemental cash disclosure
             
Interest paid
 
$
-
 
$
9,163
 
$
9,163
 
Supplemental schedule of non-cash financing activities
             
Accrual of deferred underwriting fees
 
$
-
 
$
4,000,000
 
$
4,000,000
 
Accrual of offering costs
 
$
-
 
$
170,585
     
 
60

 
MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATION OF
STAR MARITIME ACQUISITION CORP.
 
The following discussion should be read in conjunction with Star Maritime’s financial statements and related notes thereto contained in this joint proxy statement/prospectus.
 
Overview
 
Star Maritime was formed on May 13, 2005 to acquire, through a merger, capital stock exchange, asset acquisition or other similar business combination, one or more businesses in the shipping industry. Star Maritime’s initial business combination must be with a target business or businesses whose fair market value is at least equal to 80% of Star Maritime’s net assets at the time of such acquisition. As of December 31, 2006, there was $192,915,257 held in the Trust Account, including interest income of $4,240,257.

If Star Maritime does not consummate the Redomiciliation Merger or another business combination by December 21, 2007, then, pursuant to Article SIXTH of its Certificate of Incorporation, Star Maritime’s officers must take all actions necessary in accordance with the Delaware General Corporation Law to dissolve and liquidate Star Maritime within 60 days of that date. There is substantial doubt that Star Maritime will continue as a going concern if the Redomiciliation Merger is not approved.
 
Critical Accounting Policies
 
The preparation of financial statements in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of expenses during the reporting period. Actual results could differ from those estimates.

In June 2006, the FASB issued Interpretation No. 48, “Accounting for Uncertainty in Income Taxes - an Interpretation of FASB Statement No.109” (“FIN 48”). FIN 48 clarifies the accounting for uncertainly in income taxes recognized in a company’s financial statements in accordance with SFAS No. 109, “Accounting for Income Taxes.” FIN 48 prescribes a recognition threshold and measurement attribute for the financial statement recognition and measurement of a tax position taken or expected to be taken in a tax return. FIN 48 is effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2006.
 
Management does not believe that any recently issued, but not yet effective, accounting standards if currently adopted would have a material effect on the accompanying financial statements. Management is in the process of evaluating the impact of FIN 48 on its 2007 financial statements.

Results of Operations for the Fiscal Year Ended December 31, 2006 and the Period from May 13, 2005 (inception) to December 31, 2005

For the fiscal year ended December 31, 2006, we incurred $1,211,100 of operating expenses, compared to $50,211 during the period from May 13, 2005 (date of inception) through December 31, 2005, which were paid from the net proceeds that were not deposited into the trust account. Our operating expenses consisted primarily of expenses related to professional and office fees of $596,423, insurance costs of $112,242, due diligence fees in connection with the search for a business target of $262,877 and other expenses of $239,558. The increase in operating expenses from the period from May 13, 2005 (date of inception) through December 31, 2005, was the result of our due diligence efforts in searching for a business target after the Initial Public Offering and the fee payable of $7,500 per month for office space and certain other additional services from the law firm of Schwartz & Weiss, P.C.

For the fiscal year ended December 31, 2006, we earned net income after taxes of $2,978,086 ($5,141,143 before the deduction of $2,163,057 of net interest attributable to common stock subject to possible redemption) compared to $110,331 during the period from May 13, 2005 (date of inception) through December 31, 2005. Since we did not have any operations, all of our income was derived from the interest income earned on funds held in the trust account.

Results of Operations for the Period from May 13, 2005 (inception) to December 31, 2006

For the period from May 13, 2005 (date of inception) through December 31, 2006, we incurred $1,261,311 of operating expenses, which were paid from the net proceeds that were not deposited into the trust account. Our operating expenses consisted primarily of expenses related to professional and office fees of $616,023, insurance costs of $116,476, due diligence fees in connection with the search for a business target of $262,877 and other expenses of $265,935.

For the period from May 13, 2005 (date of inception) through December 31, 2006, we earned net income after taxes of $3,088,417 ($5,251,474 before the deduction of $2,163,057 of net interest attributable to common stock subject to possible redemption). Since we did not have any operations, all of our income was derived from the interest income earned on funds held in the trust account.

During the period from May 13, 2005 (date of inception) through December 31, 2005, Mr. Tsirigakis advanced a total of $590,000 at an interest rate of 4% per annum for payment of Initial Public Offering expenses on our behalf. These loans were repaid following our Initial Public Offering from the proceeds of the Initial Public Offering
 
61

 
Liquidity and Capital Resources
 
On December 15, 2005, Star Maritime sold 1,132,500 units in a private placement to certain of Star Maritime’s officers and directors. On December 21, 2005, Star Maritime consummated its initial public offering of 18,867,500 units. Each unit in the private placement and the public offering consists of one share of common stock and one redeemable common stock purchase warrant. Each warrant entitles the holder to purchase from Star Maritime one share of Star Maritime’s common stock at an exercise price of $8.00 per share. Star Maritime’s common stock and warrants started trading separately as of February 27, 2006.
 
The net proceeds from the sale of Star Maritime’s units, after deducting certain offering expenses of $10,217,665 including underwriting discounts and commissions and placement fees, were $189,807,335. Of this amount, $188,675,000 was placed in the Trust Account, $599,163 was used to repay debt and interest to Mr. Tsirigakis for a loan used to cover expenses related to the public offering and the remaining proceeds of $533,172, which after payment of approximately $170,000 of additional financing fees, provided us with approximately $363,172 which was deposited and  to be used by Star Maritime to provide for business, legal and accounting due diligence on prospective acquisitions and continuing general and administrative expenses. The net proceeds deposited into the Trust Account remain on deposit in the Trust Account earning interest. As of December 31, 2006, there was approximately $192,915,257 held in the Trust Account, of which up to $4,000,000 will be paid to the underwriters if a business combination is consummated, but which will be forfeited in part if public stockholders elect to have their shares redeemed for cash. Star Maritime will use substantially all of the net proceeds of the public offering to acquire the vessels in the initial fleet.
 
Star Maritime will offer each public stockholder the right to have such stockholder’s shares of common stock redeemed for cash if the stockholder votes against the Redomiciliation Merger, elects to exercise redemption rights and the Redomiciliation Merger is approved and completed. The per-share redemption price is equal to $10.00 per share, which amount represents $9.80 per share, plus the pro rata portion of any accrued interest earned on the Trust Account (net of taxes payable) not previously distributed to us and $0.20 per share plus interest thereon (net of taxes payable) of contingent underwriting compensation which the underwriters have agreed to forfeit to pay redeeming stockholders, calculated as of two days prior to the consummation of the Redomiciliation Merger. Accordingly, the actual per-share redemption price will fluctuate prior to the date such shares would be redeemed. The actual per-share redemption price will be equal to $10.21 per share, based on funds in the Trust Account as of December 31, 2006. We may effect the Redomiciliation Merger so long as public stockholders owning less than 33% of shares sold in the offering and the private placement vote against the Redomiciliation Merger and exercise their redemption rights. Accordingly, 6,599,999 shares of common stock are subject to possible redemption. At December 31, 2006, $64,679,990 of the net proceeds from the offering, has been classified as common stock subject to possible redemption in the Company’s balance sheet.
 
Star Maritime’s management believes that Star Maritime will have sufficient available funds outside of the trust account to operate through December 21, 2007, assuming that the Redomiciliation Merger is not consummated during that time. Management does not believe that Star Maritime will need to raise additional funds in order to meet the expenditures required for operating its business.
 
Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements
 
Star Maritime has not entered into any off-balance sheet financing arrangements.
 
Contractual Obligations
 
We do not have any long term debt, capital lease obligations, operating lease obligations, purchase obligations or other long term liabilities.
 
62

 
Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk
 
Market risk is the sensitivity of income to changes in interest rates, foreign exchanges, commodity prices, equity prices, and other market-driven rates or prices. Star Maritime is not presently engaged in any substantive commercial business. Accordingly, Star Maritime is not and, until such time as it consummates a business combination, it will not be, exposed to risks associated with foreign exchange rates, commodity prices, equity prices or other market-driven rates or prices. The net proceeds of Star Maritime’s initial public offering held in the trust account have been invested only in money market funds meeting certain conditions under Rule 2a-7 promulgated under the Investment Company Act of 1940. Given our limited risk in Star Maritime’s exposure to money market funds, management does not view the interest rate risk to be significant.

 
63

 
INFORMATION CONCERNING STAR BULK CARRIERS CORP. 
 
General 
 
Star Bulk was formed on December 13, 2006 under the laws of the Republic of the Marshall Islands and has its principal offices located in Athens, Greece. Star Bulk, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Star Maritime, will be an independent commercial shipping company that will provide global transportation solutions in the drybulk shipping sector through its vessel-owning subsidiaries for a broad range of major and minor bulk cargoes including iron ore, coal, grain, cement, fertilizer, along worldwide shipping routes. Concurrently with the Redomiciliation Merger, Star Bulk will issue 12,537,645 share of common stock to TMT in respect of the stock consideration portion of the aggregate purchase price of the vessels in the initial fleet. Under certain circumstances, Star Bulk may issue up to an additional 1,606,962 shares of common stock to TMT. See “Acquisition Agreements - Purchase price.”
 
Corporate Structure
 
Star Bulk is a holding company that will own its vessels through separate wholly-owned subsidiaries. Star Bulk’s wholly-owned subsidiary, Star Bulk Management Inc., or Star Bulk Management, will perform operational and technical management services for the vessels in the initial fleet, including chartering, marketing, capital expenditures, personnel, accounting, paying vessel taxes and maintaining insurance.
 
The names of the wholly-owned subsidiaries that will own each vessel are as follows:
 
Subsidiary
 
Vessel Name
 
To be Renamed (TBR)
Star Alpha Inc.
 
A Duckling
 
Star Alpha
Star Beta Inc.
 
B Duckling
 
Star Beta
Star Gamma Inc.
 
C Duckling
 
Star Gamma
Star Delta Inc.
 
F Duckling
 
Star Delta
Star Epsilon Inc.
 
G Duckling
 
Star Epsilon
Star Zita Inc.
 
I Duckling
 
Star Zita
Star Theta Inc.
 
J Duckling
 
Star Theta
Star Iota Inc.
 
Mommy Duckling
 
Star Iota
 
Distinguishing Factors and Business Strategy
 
Extensive Industry Visibility. Star Bulk’s non-executive Co-Chairmen, Mr. Nobu Su and Mr. Petros Pappas, and its founder Mr. Akis Tsirigakis, each have extensive experience and relationships in the shipping industry and with charterers in the coal, steel and iron ore industries. Star Bulk intends to capitalize on these relationships and contacts to gain market intelligence and identify chartering opportunities with leading charterers in these core commodities industries, many of whom consider the reputation of a vessel owner and operator when entering into time charters.

Established Customer Relationships. Star Bulk believes that its Co-Chairmen, directors and management team have established relationships with leading charterers and a number of chartering, sales and purchase brokerage houses around the world. Star Bulk believes that its Co-Chairmen, directors and management team have maintained relationships with, and have achieved acceptance by, major national and private industrial users, commodity producers and traders.

Experienced Management Team. Star Bulk’s founder and Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Akis Tsirigakis has Bachelors and Masters degrees from the University of Michigan in Naval Architecture and Marine Engineering. During his 28 year career in shipping he worked in all aspects of shipmanagement and maintenance of drybulk carriers and tankers. Star Bulk believes that the members of its management team have developed strong industry relationships with leading charterers, shipbuilders, insurance underwriters, protection and indemnity associations and financial institutions.
 
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Highly efficient operations. Star Bulk believes that its director's and executive officers' long experience in third-party technical management of drybulk carriers will enable Star Bulk to establish cost-efficient operations. Star Bulk intends to actively monitor and control vessel operating expenses while maintaining high quality of its fleet through regular inspection, maintenance programs, high standards of operation, vessel technical condition, safety and environmental protection through comprehensive planned maintenance systems, preventive maintenance programs and by retaining and training qualified crew members.

Balanced Chartering Strategies. All of Star Bulk’s vessels, with the exception of the Star Beta and the Star Theta, will be under medium- to long-term charters with terms of one to three years with an average of approximately one and a half years and provide for fixed semi-monthly payments in advance which Star Bulk expects to commence immediately upon their delivery to Star Bulk. Star Bulk believes that these charters will provide it with high fleet utilization and relatively stable revenues. Star Bulk may in the future pursue other market opportunities for its vessels to capitalize on favorable market conditions, including entering into short-term time and voyage charters, pool arrangements or bareboat charters.

Focused Fleet Profile. Star Bulk intends to focus on the larger size segments of the drybulk sector such as Capesize, Panamax and Supramax drybulk carriers. Star Bulk believes these segments offer greater potential compared to smaller drybulk carriers, such as Handymax and Handysize vessels. Furthermore, Star Bulk’s targeted fleet profile will enable it to serve its customers in both major and minor bulk trades. Star Bulk’s vessels will be able to trade worldwide in a multitude of trade routes carrying a wide range of cargoes for a number of industries. Star Bulk’s drybulk carriers can carry coal and iron ore for energy and steel production as well as grain and steel products, fertilizers, minerals, forest products, ores, bauxite, alumina, cement and other cargoes. Star Bulk’s fleet will include five sister ships. Operating sister and similar ships will provide Star Bulk with operational and scheduling flexibility, efficiencies in employee training and lower inventory and maintenance expenses. Star Bulk believes that operating sister ships will allow it to increase revenue and maintain lower operating costs.

Modern Quality Fleet. Star Bulk believes that its ability to maintain and increase its customer base will depend largely on the quality and performance of its fleet. Star Bulk believes that owning a modern, high quality fleet reduces operating costs, improves safety and provides it with a competitive advantage in obtaining employment for its vessels. Star Bulk will carry out regular inspections and maintenance of its fleet in order to maintain its high quality.

Low Indebtedness Level. Star Bulk will use substantially all of the funds in the Trust Account and up to $50,000,000 in borrowings under the credit facility to purchase the vessels in the fleet, assuming Star Maritime stockholders do not exercise redemption rights. Star Bulk’s relatively low level of indebtedness will provides it with a strong balance sheet and increases the amount of funds available to Star Bulk under the credit facility in connection with future acquisitions.

Fleet Growth Potential. Star Bulk intends to acquire additional drybulk carriers through timely and selective acquisitions of vessels in a manner that it determines would be accretive to cash flow. Star Bulk expects to fund acquisitions of additional vessels using amounts borrowed under the credit facility, future borrowings under other agreements as well as with gross proceeds of up to $160,000,000 from the possible exercise of warrants.

Pay quarterly dividends. Star Bulk currently intends to pay quarterly dividends to the holders of its common shares, in February, May, August and November, in amounts that will allow it to retain a portion of its cash flows to fund vessel or fleet acquisitions, and for debt repayment and dry-docking costs, as determined by its board of directors. Based upon and subject to the assumptions and forecasts included in the section “Star Bulk’s Forecasted Cash Available for Dividends, Reserves and Extraordinary Expenses,” Star Bulk intends to pay its first dividend, which it estimates will be in the amount of $0.325 per common share, in November 2007, in respect of the period from the commencement of Star Bulk’s operations through September 30, 2007. For more information on cash that Star Bulk may have available to pay dividends, please read the section entitled “Star Bulk’s Forecasted Cash Available for Dividends, Reserves and Extraordinary Expenses”.

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Star Bulk’s Fleet
 
Upon the delivery of the vessels in the initial fleet, Star Bulk will own and operate eight drybulk carriers that transport a variety of drybulk commodities, including coal, iron ore, and grains, or major bulks, as well as bauxite, phosphate, fertilizers and steel products, or minor bulks. The following table provides summary information about Star Bulk’s fleet:
 
Vessel
 
Vessel
 
Size
 
Year
 
Charter Rate
 
Type/
Name (1)
 
Type
 
(dwt)
 
Built
 
($ per day) (3)
 
Term (3)
Star Alpha
 
Capesize
 
175,075
 
1992
 
$47,500
 
Time Charter/3 years
Star Beta
 
Capesize
 
174,691
 
1993
     
Spot (2)
Star Gamma
 
Supramax
 
53,098
 
2002
 
$28,500 (4)
 
Time Charter/1 year
Star Delta
 
Supramax
 
52,434
 
2000
 
$25,800
 
Time Charter/2 years
Star Epsilon
 
Supramax
 
52,402
 
2001
 
$25,550
 
Time Charter/2 years
Star Zita
 
Supramax
 
52,994
 
2003
 
$30,500
 
Time Charter/1 year
Star Theta
 
Supramax
 
52,425
 
2003
     
Spot (2)
Star Iota
 
Panamax
 
78,585
 
1983
 
$18,000 (4)
 
Time Charter/1 year

(1)
Each vessel name is the new name Star Bulk will designate to the vessel following its delivery from the seller. Each vessel is currently registered in Panama, Star Bulk will register each vessel in the Marshall Islands.
 
(2)
The Star Beta and the Star Theta will operate in the spot charter market.
 
(3)
Represents the actual daily time charter rates that TMT has procured subsequent to the date of the Master Agreement and the Supplemental Agreement.
 
(4)
Subsidiaries of Star Bulk have entered into time charters with TMT for these vessels.
 
Management of the Fleet
 
Star Bulk has only two employees, its Chief Executive Officer and its Chief Financial Officer. Star Bulk’s wholly-owned subsidiary, Star Bulk Management will administer the activities of Star Bulk. Star Bulk’s Chief Executive Officer and its Chief Financial Officer will also be the senior management of Star Bulk Management. Following the Redomiciliation Merger, Star Bulk Management will employ such number of additional shore-based executives and employees as to ensure the efficient performance of its activities.
 
Star Bulk will reimburse and or advance funds as necessary to Star Bulk Management in order for it to conduct its activities and discharge its obligations, at cost, as well as have sufficient working capital reserves as may be agreed between them from time to time.
 
Star Bulk Management will be responsible for the management of the vessels. Star Bulk Management’s responsibilities include, inter alia, locating, purchasing, financing and selling vessels, deciding on capital expenditures for the vessels, paying vessels’ taxes, negotiating charters for the vessels, managing the mix of various types of charters, developing and managing the relationships with charterers and the operational and technical management of the vessels. Technical management includes maintenance, drydocking, repairs, insurance, regulatory and classification society compliance, arranging for and managing crews, appointing technical consultants and providing technical support.
 
Star Bulk does not intend to pay commissions to its affiliates in connection with the chartering of vessels to or from any of its affiliates or for the purchase of vessels from or sale to its affiliates.
 
Star Bulk Management may subcontract the technical and/or the crew management of vessels to one or more reputable independent third-party technical management companies, as deemed appropriate, with the aim to benchmark their performance for the purpose of lowering cost and adopting best practices for the ultimate benefit of Star Bulk and its shareholders. To ensure the smooth delivery of the vessels while Star Bulk Management is being organized, Star Bulk may temporarily employ the services of Combine Marine Inc., a company affiliated with Mr. Tsirigakis and our Co-Chairman, Mr. Pappas. These services, if any, will be compensated for at levels not exceeding those charged by independent third-party providers of such services.
 
Star Bulk’s Chief Executive Officer and President has 28 years of experience in the shipping industry and extensive experience in heading a third-party technical management company. Star Bulk Management will monitor the performance of the sub-managers via its own personnel.
 
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Crewing
 
Star Bulk Management will be responsible for recruiting, either directly or through a technical manager or a crew manager, the senior officers and all other crew members for the vessels in our fleet. Star Bulk Management will have the responsibility to ensure that all seamen have the qualifications and licenses required to comply with international regulations and shipping conventions, and that the vessels are manned by experienced and competent and trained personnel. Star Bulk Management will also be responsible for ensuring that seafarers’ wages and terms of employment conform to international standards or to general collective bargaining agreement to allow unrestricted worldwide trading of the vessels.
 
Vessel Employment
 
Star Bulk intends to employ its vessels under period time charters and in the spot market. A vessel trading in the spot market may be employed under a voyage charter or a time charter of short duration, generally less than three months. Star Bulk may, in the future, employ vessels under bareboat charter or in drybulk carrier pools.
 
A period time charter is a contract to charter a vessel for an agreed period of time at a set daily rate. A voyage charter is a contract to carry a specific cargo for a per ton carry amount. Under voyage charters, Star Bulk would pay voyage expenses such as port, canal and fuel costs. Under period time charters, the charterer pays these voyage expenses. Under both types of charters, Star Bulk will pay for vessel operating expenses, which include crew costs, provisions, deck and engine stores, lubricating oil, insurance, maintenance and repairs. Star Bulk will also be responsible for each vessel’s intermediate drydocking and special survey costs. Alternatively, vessels can be chartered under “bareboat” contracts whereby the charterer is responsible for the vessel’s maintenance and operations, as well as all voyage expenses.
 
Vessels operating on period time charter provide more predictable cash flows, but can yield lower profit margins, than vessels operating in the spot market during periods characterized by favorable market conditions. Vessels operating in the spot market generate revenues that are less predictable but may enable Star Bulk to increase profit margins during periods of increasing drybulk rates. However, Star Bulk would then be exposed to the risk of declining drybulk rates, which may be higher or lower than the rates at which Star Bulk chartered its vessels. Star Bulk will constantly evaluate opportunities for period time charters, but only expects to enter into additional period time charters if Star Bulk can obtain contract terms that satisfy its criteria. Star Bulk may from time to time utilize forward freight agreements that enable Star Bulk to enter into contractual obligations to sell the spot charter forward and thereby reduce Star Bulk’s exposure to a potential deterioration of the charter market.
 
Directors and Executive Officers

Set forth below are the names, ages and positions of Star Bulk’s directors, executive officers and key employees following the effective date of the Redomiciliation Merger. The board of directors is elected annually on a staggered basis, and each director elected holds office until his successor shall have been duly elected and qualified, except in the event of his death, resignation, removal or the earlier termination of his term of office. Officers are elected from time to time by vote of Star Bulk’s board of directors and hold office until a successor is elected.

Name
 
Age
 
Position
Prokopios (Akis) Tsirigakis*
 
51
 
Chief Executive Officer, President and Class C Director
George Syllantavos*
 
42
 
Chief Financial Officer, Secretary and Class C Director
Petros Pappas
 
53
 
Non-executive Co-Chairman and Class A Director
Nobu Su
 
49
 
Non-executive Co-Chairman and Class A Director
Peter Espig
 
41
 
Class B Director
Koert Erhardt
 
50
 
Class B Director
Tom Søfteland
 
46
 
Class B Director

The term of Star Bulk’s Class A directors expires in 2008, the term of Class B directors expires in 2009 and the term of Class C directors expires in 2010.
 
*Current directors of Star Bulk.
 
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Prokopios (Akis) Tsirigakis is our Chief Executive Officer, President and director. He has been Star Maritime’s Chairman of the Board, Chief Executive Officer and President since inception. Mr. Tsirigakis is experienced in ship management, ship ownership and overseeing new shipbuilding projects. Since November 2003, he has been the Joint Managing Director of Oceanbulk Maritime S.A., a dry cargo shipping company that has operated and managed vessels aggregating as much as 1.6 million deadweight tons of cargo capacity and which is part of the Oceanbulk Group of affiliated companies involved in the service sectors of the shipping industry. Since November 1998, Mr. Tsirigakis has been the Managing Director of Combine Marine Inc., a company which he founded that provides ship management services to third parties and which is part of the Oceanbulk Group. From 1991 to 1998, Mr. Tsirigakis was the Vice-President and Technical Director of Konkar Shipping Agencies S.A. of Athens, after having served as Konkar’s Technical Director from 1984 to 1991, which at the time managed 16 drybulk carriers, multi-purpose vessels and tanker/combination carriers. From 1982 to 1984, Mr. Tsirigakis was the Technical Manager of Konkar’s affiliate, Arkon Shipping Agencies Inc. of New York, a part of the Archirodon Construction Group. He is a member of the Technical Committee (CASTEC) of Intercargo, the International Association of Dry Cargo Shipowners, and of the Technical Committees of Classification Societies. Mr. Tsirigakis received his Masters and B.Sc. in Naval Architecture from The University of Michigan, Ann Arbor and has three years of seagoing experience. Mr. Tsirigakis formerly served on the board of directors of Dryships Inc., a company listed on the NASDAQ Global Market which provides international seaborne transportation services carrying various dry-bulk cargoes.
 
George Syllantavos is our Chief Financial Officer, Secretary and director. He has also been Star Maritime’s Chief Financial Officer, Secretary and a member of its board of directors since inception and its Secretary since December 2005. Since May 1999, he has been President and General Manager of Vortex Ltd., an aviation consulting firm specializing in strategic and fleet planning. From January 1998 to April 1999, he served as a financial advisor to Hellenic Telecommunications Organization S.A., where, on behalf of the Chief Executive Officer, he coordinated and led the company’s listing on the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE:OTE) and where he had responsibilities for the strategic planning and implementation of multiple acquisitions of fixed-line telecommunications companies, including RomTelecom. Mr. Syllantavos served as a financial and strategic advisor to both the Greek Ministry of Industry & Energy (from June 1995 to May 1996) and the Greek Ministry of Health (from May 1996 to January 1998), where, in 1997 and 1998, he helped structure the equivalent of a US$700 million bond issuance for the payment of outstanding debts to the supplier of the Greek National Health System. From 1998 to 2004, he served as a member of the Investment Committee of Rand Brothers & Co., a small U.S. merchant banking firm, where he reviewed and analyzed more than 35 acquisition targets of small or medium sized privately-held manufacturing firms in the U.S. and internationally, of which he negotiated, structured and directed the acquisition of three such firms with transactions ranging in size from $7 million to $11 million. Mr. Syllantavos has a B.Sc. in Industrial Engineering from Roosevelt University and an MBA in Operations Management, International Finance and Transportation Management from Northwestern University (Kellogg).
 
Petros Pappas will serve as non-executive Co-Chairmen of the board of directors of Star Bulk following the Redomiciliation Merger. He has been a member of Star Maritime’s board of directors since inception. Throughout his career as a principal and manager in the shipping industry, Mr. Pappas has been involved in over 120 vessel acquisitions and disposals. In 1989, he founded Oceanbulk Maritime S.A., a dry cargo shipping company that has operated managed vessels  aggregating as much as 1.6 million deadweight tons of cargo capacity. He also founded the Oceanbulk Group of affiliated companies, which are involved in the service sectors of the shipping industry. The Oceanbulk Group is comprised of Oceanbulk Maritime S.A., Interchart Shipping Inc., Oceanbulk Shipping and Trading S.A., Interchart Shipping Inc., Oceanbulk Shipping and Trading S.A., Oceanbulk S & P, Combine Marine Inc., More Maritime Agencies Inc., and Sentinel Marine Services Inc. Additionally, Mr. Pappas ranked among the top 25 Greek ship owners (by number of ocean going vessels) as evaluated by the U.S. Department of Commerce’s 2004 report on the Greek shipping industry. Mr. Pappas has been a Director of the UK Defense Club, a leading insurance provider of legal defense services in the shipping industry worldwide, since January 2002, and is a member of the Union of Greek Shipowners (UGS). Mr. Pappas received his B.A. in Economics and his MBA from The University of Michigan, Ann Arbor.
 
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Nobu Su will serve as non-executive Co-Chairman of the board of directors of Star Bulk following the Redomiciliation Merger. Since 2002, Mr. Nobu Su has served as CEO of TMT. Under the direction of Mr. Nobu Su, TMT has expanded its fleet to include drybulk carriers, very large crude carriers, cargo carriers, liquefied natural gas carriers, automobile carriers, and cement carriers. In addition to increasing the service capabilities of TMT, Mr. Nobu Su has transformed TMT into a global leader in the international shipping industry. Under his direction, TMT has emerged as one of the most successful participants in the global freight derivatives market (FFA market). Mr. Nobu Su graduated with a BSc in economics from Keio University in Japan.
 
Peter Espig will serve as a director of Star Bulk following the Redomiciliation Merger. Mr. Espig is experienced in the analysis of investment opportunities, raising capital, deal sourcing and financial structuring. In August 2006, he founded and currently serves as CEO of Advance Capital Japan, a private equity and consulting firm focused on raising capital for mid-sized companies and pre-IPO investment and consulting. From 2005 to 2006, Mr. Espig served as Vice-President of the Principal Finance and Securitization Group and Asia Special Situations Group for Goldman Sachs Japan where he was responsible for sourcing and analyzing investment opportunities, balance sheet restructuring and IPO and exit preparations for various corporate and real estate investments. Prior to joining Goldman Sachs, Mr. Espig served from 2004 to 2005 as Vice-President of the New York private equity firm, Olympus Capital, where he participated in corporate restructurings, investment analysis and financing negotiations for both domestic and international investments. From 2003 to 2004, Mr. Espig worked as a leveraged finance, special situations banker for Shinsei bank where he participated in leverage buyouts and debt restructurings. In 1989, Mr. Espig received his B.A. from the University of British Columbia and in 2003, Mr. Espig received his MBA from Columbia Business School where he was honored as a Chazen Society International Scholar.
 
Koert Erhardt will serve as a director of Star Bulk following the Redomiciliation Merger. He has been a member of Star Maritime’s board of directors since inception. From September 2004 to December 2004, he served as the Chief Executive Officer and a member of the board of directors of CC Maritime S.A.M., an affiliate of the Coeclerici Group, an international conglomerate whose businesses include shipping and transoceanic transportation of drybulk materials. From 1998 to September 2004, he served as General Manager of Coeclerici Armatori S.p.A. and Coeclerici Logistics S.p.A., affiliates of the Coeclerici Group, where he created a shipping pool that commercially managed over 130 vessels with a carrying volume of 72 million tons and developed the use of Freight Forward Agreement trading as a hedging mechanism to the pool’s exposure and positions. From 1994 to 1998, he served as the General Manager of Bulkitalia, a prominent shipping concern which at the time owned and operated over 40 vessels. From 1990 to 1994, Mr. Erhardt served in various positions with Bulk Italia. From 1988 to 1990, he was the Managing Director and Chief Operating Officer of Nedlloyd Drybulk, the drybulk arm of the Nedlloyd Group, an international conglomerate whose interests include container ship liner services, tankers, oil drilling rigs, pipe laying vessels and ship brokering.. Mr. Erhardt received his Diploma in Maritime Economics and Logistics from Hogere Havenen Vervoersschool (now Erasmus University), Rotterdam, and received his MBA International Executive Program at INSEAD, Fontainebleau, France. Mr. Erhardt has also studied at the London School of Foreign Trade.
 
Tom Søfteland will serve as a director of Star Bulk following the Redomiciliation Merger. He has been a member of Star Maritime’s the board of directors since inception. Since October 1996, he has been the Chief Executive Officer of Capital Partners A.S. of Bergen, Norway, a financial services firm that he founded and which specializes in shipping and asset finance. From 1990 to October 1996, he held various positions at Industry & Skips Banken, ASA, a bank specializing in shipping, most recently as its Deputy Chief Executive Officer. Mr. Søfteland received his B.Sc. in Economics from the Norwegian School of Business and Administration (NHH).
 
Star Bulk’s board of directors is divided into three classes with only one class of directors being elected in each year and each class serving a three-year term. The term of office of the Class A directors, consisting of Petros Pappas and Nobu Su, will expire at Star Bulk’s first annual meeting of stockholders. The term of office of the Class B directors, consisting of Koert Erhardt, Tom Søfteland and Peter Espig, will expire at the second annual meeting. The term of office of the Class C directors, consisting of Akis Tsirigakis and George Syllantavos, will expire at the third annual meeting.
 
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Corporate Governance Practices
 
Star Bulk expects to certify to Nasdaq that its corporate governance practices are in compliance with, and are not prohibited by, the laws of the Marshall Islands. As a foreign private issuer, Star Bulk will be exempt from many of Nasdaq's corporate governance practices other than the requirements regarding the disclosure of a going concern audit opinion, submission of a listing agreement, notification of material non-compliance with Nasdaq corporate governance practices and the establishment and composition of an audit committee and a formal written audit committee charter. Star Bulk will comply with Nasdaq’s corporate governance practices that are applicable to domestic corporations, except as set forth below. The practices that Star Bulk will follow in lieu of Nasdaq's corporate governance rules are as follows:
 
 
·
Star Bulk’s board will be comprised of seven directors, three of whom will be independent directors.
 
 
·
The audit committee of Star Bulk will be comprised of three members, at least two of whom will be independent, who will be responsible for reviewing our accounting controls and recommending to the board of directors the engagement of Star Bulk’s outside auditors. The initial members of the audit committee will be Tom Søfteland (Chairman), Koert Erhardt and George Syllantavos.
 
 
·
The compensation committee of Star Bulk will be comprised of three members of its board of directors at least two of whom are independent directors who will be responsible for establishing executive officers' compensation and benefits. The initial members of Star Bulk’s compensation committee will be George Syllantavos (Chairman), Tom Søfteland and Koert Erhardt.
 
 
The nomination and corporate governance committee of Star Bulk will be comprised of independent directors, who will be responsible for identifying and recommending potential candidates to become board members and recommending directors for appointment to board committees. Shareholders may also identify and recommend potential candidates to become board members in accordance with Star Bulk’s bylaws.
 
 
·
Consistent with Marshall Islands law requirements, in lieu of obtaining an independent review of related party transactions for conflicts of interests, Star Bulk’s bylaws require any director who has a potential conflict of interest to identify and declare the nature of the conflict to the board of directors at the next meeting of the board of directors. Star Bulk’s bylaws additionally provide that related party transactions must be approved by independent and disinterested directors.
 
 
·
In accordance with Marshall Islands law, Star Bulk will not be required to obtain shareholder approval if it chooses to issue additional securities.
 
 
·
As a foreign private issuer, Star Bulk is not required to solicit proxies or provide proxy statements to Nasdaq pursuant to Nasdaq corporate governance rules or Marshall Islands law. Consistent with Marshall Islands law and as provided in Star Bulk’s bylaws, Star Bulk will notify its shareholders of meetings between 15 and 60 days before the meeting. This notification will contain, among other things, information regarding business to be transacted at the meeting. In addition, Star Bulk’s bylaws provide that shareholders must give between 150 and 180 days advance notice to properly introduce any business at a meeting of the shareholders.

Other than as noted above, Star Bulk will be in full compliance with all other applicable Nasdaq corporate governance standards.
 
Compensation of Directors and Executive Officers

For the period ended December 31, 2006, no executives of Star Bulk received any compensation from Star Bulk. After the Redomiciliation Merger is effected, non-employee directors of Star Bulk will receive an annual cash retainer of $15,000, a fee of $1,000 for each board and committee meeting attended, including meetings attended telephonically. The chairman of the audit committee will receive an additional $7,500 per year and each chairman of Star Bulk's other standing committees will receive an additional $5,000 per year. In addition, each director will be reimbursed for out-of-pocket expenses in connection with attending meetings of the board of directors or committees. Star Bulk does not have a retirement plan for its officers or directors.
 
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Properties
 
Star Bulk expects to lease office space in Athens, Greece. 
 
Equity Incentive Plan
 
Star Bulk has adopted an equity incentive plan, which Star Bulk refers to as the 2007 Equity Incentive Plan, under which officers, key employees, directors and consultants of Star Bulk and its subsidiaries will be eligible to receive options to acquire shares of common stock, stock appreciation rights, restricted stock and other stock-based or stock-denominated awards. Star Bulk has reserved a total of 2,000,000 shares of common stock for issuance under the plan, subject to adjustment for changes in capitalization as provided in the plan. The purpose of the 2007 Equity Incentive Plan is to encourage ownership of shares by, and to assist Star Bulk in attracting, retaining and providing incentives to, its officers, key employees, directors and consultants whose contributions to Star Bulk are or will be important to the success of Star Bulk and to align the interests of such persons with Star Bulk’s stockholders. The various types of incentive awards that may be issued under the 2007 Equity Incentive Plan will enable Star Bulk to respond to changes in compensation practices, tax laws, accounting regulations and the size and diversity of its business.

The plan will be administered by Star Bulk’s compensation committee, or such other committee of Star Bulk’s board of directors as may be designated by the board to administer the plan. The plan permits grants of options to purchase common stock, stock appreciation rights, restricted stock, restricted stock units and unrestricted stock.

Under the terms of the plan, stock options and stock appreciation rights granted under the plan will have an exercise price per common share equal to the fair market value of a common share on the date of grant, unless otherwise determined by the plan administrator, but in no event will the exercise price be less than the fair market value of a common share on the date of grant. Options and stock appreciation rights will be exercisable at times and under conditions as determined by the plan administrator, but in no event will they be exercisable later than ten years from the date of grant.

The plan administrator may grant shares of restricted stock and awards of restricted stock units subject to vesting and forfeiture provisions and other terms and conditions as determined by the plan administrator. Upon the vesting of a restricted stock unit, the award recipient will be paid an amount equal to the number of restricted stock units that then vest multiplied by the fair market value of a common share on the date of vesting, which payment may be paid in the form of cash or common shares or a combination of both, as determined by the plan administrator. The plan administrator may grant dividend equivalents with respect to grants of restricted stock units.

Adjustments may be made to outstanding awards in the event of a corporate transaction or change in capitalization or other extraordinary event. In the event of a “change in control” (as defined in the plan), unless otherwise provided by the plan administrator in an award agreement, awards then outstanding shall become fully vested and exercisable in full.

The Board may amend or terminate the plan and may amend outstanding awards, provided that no such amendment or termination may be made that would materially impair any rights, or materially increase any obligations, of a grantee under an outstanding award. Stockholder approval of plan amendments may be required in certain circumstances if required by applicable rules of a national securities exchange or the SEC. Unless terminated earlier by the board of directors, the plan will expire ten years from the date on which the plan was adopted by the board of directors.
 
Employment and Consulting Agreements
 
Prior to the effective date of the Redomiciliation Merger, Star Bulk expects to enter into employment agreements with Mr. Akis Tsirigakis, Star Bulk’s Chief Executive Officer and President and Mr. George Syllantavos, Star Bulk’s Chief Financial Officer, for work performed by them in Greece and separate consulting agreements with corporations controlled by Messrs. Tsirigakis and Syllantavos, respectively, for work performed by them outside of Greece. Star Bulk expects that the employment and consulting agreements each will have an initial term of four years. Mr. Tsirigakis and Mr. Syllantavos will be prohibited from participating in business activities in competition with Star Bulk without Star Bulk’s prior written consent. Notwithstanding this provision of their employment agreements, Mr. Tsirigakis and Mr. Syllantavos do not intend to independently pursue any opportunities in the international drybulk shipping industry. Pursuant to their employment agreements, Messrs. Tsirigakis and Syllantavos will be eligible to receive awards under Star Bulk’s 2007 Equity Incentive Plan and certain performance-based bonuses.

Competition
 
Star Bulk will operate in markets that are highly competitive and based primarily on supply and demand. Star Bulk will compete for charters on the basis of price, vessel location, size, age and condition of the vessel, as well as on its reputation. Star Bulk Management will arrange Star Bulk’s charters (whether voyage charters, period time charters, bareboat charters or pools) through the use of brokers, who negotiate the terms of the charters based on market conditions. Star Bulk will compete primarily with other owners of drybulk carriers in the Capesize, Panamax, Handysize and Handymax sectors. Ownership of drybulk carriers is highly fragmented and is divided among state controlled and independent bulk carrier owners.
 
Charters for Star Bulk’s vessels are expected to be negotiated by Star Bulk Management utilizing a worldwide network of shipbrokers. These shipbrokers will advise Star Bulk Management on a continuous basis of the availability of cargo for any particular vessel. There may be several shipbrokers involved in any one charter. The negotiation for a charter typically begins prior to the completion of the previous charter in order to avoid any idle time. The terms of the charter are based on industry standards.
 
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Environmental and Other Regulations
 
Government regulation significantly affect the ownership and operation of Star Bulk’s vessels. The vessels will be subject to international conventions, national, state and local laws and regulations in force in the countries in which Star Bulk’s vessels may operate or are registered.
 
A variety of governmental and private entities will subject Star Bulk’s vessels to both scheduled and unscheduled inspections. These entities include the local port authorities (U.S. Coast Guard, harbor master or equivalent), classification societies, flag state administration (country of registry) and charterers. Certain of these entities will require Star Bulk to obtain permits, licenses and certificates for the operation of its vessels. Failure to maintain necessary permits or approvals could cause Star Bulk to incur substantial costs or temporarily suspend operation of one or more of its vessels.
 
Star Bulk believes that the heightened level of environmental and quality concerns among insurance underwriters, regulators and charterers is leading to greater inspection and safety requirements on all vessels and may accelerate the scrapping of older vessels throughout the drybulk shipping industry. Increasing environmental concerns have created a demand for vessels that conform to stricter environmental standards. Star Bulk will be required to maintain operating standards for all of its vessels that emphasize operational safety, quality maintenance, continuous training of our officers and crews and compliance with United States and international regulations. Star Bulk believes that the operation of its vessels will be in substantial compliance with applicable environmental laws and regulations applicable to Star Bulk.
 
International Maritime Organization.
 
The United Nations’ International Maritime Organization, or IMO, has negotiated international conventions that impose liability for oil pollution in international waters and a signatory’s territorial waters. In September 1997, the IMO adopted Annex VI to the International Convention for the Prevention of Pollution from Ships to address air pollution from ships. Annex VI was ratified in May 2004, and became effective in May 2005. Annex VI set limits on sulfur oxide and nitrogen oxide emissions from ship exhausts and prohibits deliberate emissions of ozone depleting substances, such as chlorofluorocarbons. Annex VI also includes a global cap on the sulfur content of fuel oil and allows for special areas to be established with more stringent controls on sulfur emissions. Our fleet has conformed to the Annex VI regulations. Additional or new conventions, laws and regulations may be adopted that could adversely affect Star Bulk’s ability to operate its vessels.
 
The operation of Star Bulk’s vessels will also be affected by the requirements set forth in the ISM Code. The ISM Code requires shipowners and bareboat charterers to develop and maintain an extensive “Safety Management System” that includes the adoption of a safety and environmental protection policy setting forth instructions and procedures for safe operation and describing procedures for dealing with emergencies. The failure of a shipowner or management company to comply with the ISM Code may subject such party to increased liability, may decrease available insurance coverage for the affected vessels, and may result in a denial of access to, or detention in, certain ports. Each of Star Bulk’s vessels is expected to be ISM Code-certified. However, there can be no assurance that such certification will be maintained indefinitely.
 
The United States Oil Pollution Act of 1990
 
The United States Oil Pollution Act of 1990, or OPA, established an extensive regulatory and liability regime for the protection and cleanup of the environment from oil spills. OPA affects all owners and operators whose vessels trade in the United States, its territories and possessions or whose vessels operate in United States waters, which includes the United States’ territorial sea and its 200 nautical mile exclusive economic zone.
 
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Under OPA, vessel owners, operators, charterers and management companies are “responsible parties” and are jointly, severally and strictly liable (unless the spill results solely from the act or omission of a third party, an act of God or an act of war) for all containment and clean-up costs and other damages arising from discharges or threatened discharges of oil from their vessels, including bunkers (fuel).
 
OPA previously limited the liability of responsible parties for drybulk vessels to the greater of $600 per gross ton or $0.5 million (subject to possible adjustment for inflation). Amendments to OPA signed into law in July 2006 increased these limits on the liability of responsible parties for drybulk vessels to the greater of $950 per gross ton or $0.8 million. These limits of liability do not apply if an incident was directly caused by violation of applicable United States federal safety, construction or operating regulations or by a responsible party’s gross negligence or willful misconduct, or if the responsible party fails or refuses to report the incident or to cooperate and assist in connection with oil removal activities.
 
Star Bulk expects to maintain for each of its vessel's pollution liability coverage insurance in the amount of $1 billion per incident. If the damages from a catastrophic pollution liability incident exceed its insurance coverage, it could have a material adverse effect on Star Bulk’s financial condition and results of operations.
 
OPA requires owners and operators of vessels to establish and maintain with the United States Coast Guard evidence of financial responsibility sufficient to meet their potential liabilities under the OPA. In December 1994, the Coast Guard implemented regulations requiring evidence of financial responsibility in the amount of $1,500 per gross ton, which includes the OPA limitation on liability of $1,200 per gross ton and the U.S. Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act liability limit of $300 per gross ton. Under the regulations, vessel owners and operators may evidence their financial responsibility by showing proof of insurance, surety bond, self-insurance, or guaranty. The U.S. Coast Guard has indicated that it expects to adopt regulations requiring evidence of financial responsibility in amounts that reflect the higher limits of liability imposed by the July amendments to OPA, as described above.
 
OPA specifically permits individual states to impose their own liability regimes with regard to oil pollution incidents occurring within their boundaries, and some states have enacted legislation providing for unlimited liability for oil spills. In some cases, states, which have enacted such legislation, have not yet issued implementing regulations defining vessels owners’ responsibilities under these laws. Star Bulk intends to comply in the future, with all applicable state regulations in the ports where its vessels call.
 
Other Environmental Initiatives
 
The European Union is considering legislation that will affect the operation of vessels and the liability of owners for oil pollution. It is difficult to predict what legislation, if any, may be promulgated by the European Union or any other country or authority.

Although the United States is not a party thereto, many countries have ratified and currently follow the liability plan adopted by the IMO and set out in the International Convention on Civil Liability for Oil Pollution Damage of 1969, or the 1969 Convention. Under this convention, and depending on whether the country in which the damage results is a party to the 1992 Protocol to the International Convention on Civil Liability for Oil Pollution Damage, a vessel’s registered owner is strictly liable for pollution damage caused in the territorial waters of a contracting state by discharge of persistent oil, subject to certain complete defenses. Under an amendment that became effective in November 2003 for vessels of 5,000 to 140,000 gross tons (a unit of measurement for the total enclosed spaces within a vessel), liability is limited to approximately $6.75 million plus approximately $944.7 for each additional gross ton over 5,000. For vessels of over 140,000 gross tons, liability is limited to approximately $134.4 million. As the 1969 Convention calculates liability in terms of basket currencies, these figures are based on currency exchange rates on January 23, 2007. Under the 1969 Convention, the right to limit liability is forfeited where the spill is caused by the owner’s actual fault; under the 1992 Protocol, a shipowner cannot limit liability where the spill is caused by the owner’s intentional or reckless conduct. Vessels trading in jurisdictions that are parties to these conventions must provide evidence of insurance covering the liability of the owner. In jurisdictions where the 1969 Convention has not been adopted, including the United States, various legislative schemes or common law govern, and liability is imposed either on the basis of fault or in a manner similar to that convention. Star Bulk believes that its protection and indemnity insurance will cover the liability under the plan adopted by the IMO.
 
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Vessel Security Regulations
 
Since the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001, there have been a variety of initiatives by United States authorities intended to enhance vessel security. On November 25, 2002, the Maritime Transportation Security Act of 2002 (“MTSA”), came into effect. To implement certain portions of the MTSA, in July 2003, the U.S. Coast Guard issued regulations requiring the implementation of certain security requirements aboard vessels operating in waters subject to the jurisdiction of the United States. Similarly, in December 2002, amendments to the International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea (“SOLAS”), created a new chapter of the convention dealing specifically with maritime security. The new chapter went into effect in July 2004, and imposes various detailed security obligations on vessels and port authorities, most of which are contained in the newly created ISPS Code. Among the various requirements are:
 
 
·
on-board installation of automatic information systems (“AIS”), to enhance vessel-to-vessel and vessel-to-shore communications;
 
 
·
on-board installation of ship security alert systems;
 
 
·
the development of vessel security plans; and
 
 
·
compliance with flag state security certification requirements.
 
The U.S. Coast Guard regulations, intended to align with international maritime security standards, exempt non-U.S. vessels from MTSA vessel security measures provided such vessels have on board, by July 1, 2004, a valid International Ship Security Certificate (“ISSC”) that attests to the vessel’s compliance with SOLAS security requirements and the ISPS Code. Star Bulk’s vessels will be in compliance with the various security measures addressed by the MTSA, SOLAS and the ISPS Code. Star Bulk does not believe these additional requirements will have a material financial impact on its operations.
 
Inspection by Classification Societies
 
The hull and machinery of every commercial vessel must be classed by a classification society authorized by its country of registry. The classification society certifies that a vessel is safe and seaworthy in accordance with the applicable rules and regulations of the country of registry of the vessel and the Safety of Life at Sea Convention. Star Bulk’s vessels are expected to be classed with a classification society that is a member of the International Association of Classification Societies.
 
A vessel must undergo annual surveys, intermediate surveys, drydockings and special surveys. In lieu of a special survey, a vessel’s machinery may be on a continuous survey cycle, under which the machinery would be surveyed periodically over a five-year period. Star Bulk’s vessels are expected to be on special survey cycles for hull inspection and continuous survey cycles for machinery inspection. Every vessel is also required to be drydocked every two to three years for inspection of the underwater parts of such vessel.
 
If any vessel does not maintain its class and/or fails any annual survey, intermediate survey, drydocking or special survey, the vessel will be unable to carry cargo between ports and will be unemployable and uninsurable. Any such inability to carry cargo or be employed, or any such violation of covenants, could have a material adverse impact on its financial condition and results of operations.
 
At an owner’s application, the surveys required for class renewal may be split according to an agreed schedule to extend over the entire period of class. This process is referred to as continuous class renewal.
 
All areas subject to survey as defined by the classification society are required to be surveyed at least once per class period, unless shorter intervals between surveys are prescribed elsewhere. The period between two subsequent surveys of each area must not exceed five years.
 
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Most insurance underwriters make it a condition for insurance coverage and lending that a vessel be certified as “in class” by a classification society which is a member of the International Association of Classification Societies. Star Bulk’s vessels are expected to be certified as being “in class” by a classification society that is a member of the International Association of Classification Societies.
 
Risk of Loss and Liability Insurance
 
General
 
The operation of any cargo vessel includes risks such as mechanical failure, physical damage, collision, property loss, cargo loss or damage and business interruption due to political circumstances in foreign countries, hostilities and labor strikes. In addition, there is always an inherent possibility of marine disaster, including oil spills and other environmental mishaps, and the liabilities arising from owning and operating vessels in international trade. OPA, which imposes virtually unlimited liability upon owners, operators and demise charterers of any vessel trading in the United States exclusive economic zone for certain oil pollution accidents in the United States, has made liability insurance more expensive for ship owners and operators trading in the United States market. While Star Bulk believes that its expected insurance coverage is adequate, not all risks can be insured, and there can be no guarantee that any specific claim will be paid, or that it will always be able to obtain adequate insurance coverage at reasonable rates.
 
Hull and Machinery Insurance 
 
Star Bulk expects to obtain marine hull and machinery and war risk insurance, which includes the risk of actual or constructive total loss, for all of its vessels. The vessels will each be covered up to at least fair market value, with deductibles in amounts of approximately $100,000 to $150,000.
 
Star Bulk will arrange, as necessary, increased value insurance for its vessels. With the increased value insurance, in case of total loss of the vessel, Star Bulk will be able to recover the sum insured under the increased value policy in addition to the sum insured under the hull and machinery policy. Increased value insurance also covers excess liabilities which are not recoverable in full by the hull and machinery policies by reason of under insurance. Star Bulk expects to maintain loss of hire insurance for certain of its vessels. Loss of hire insurance covers business interruptions that result in the loss of use of a vessel.
 
Protection and Indemnity Insurance
 
Protection and indemnity insurance is expected to be provided by mutual protection and indemnity associations, or P&I Associations, which will cover Star Bulk’s third-party liabilities in connection with its shipping activities. This includes third-party liability and other related expenses of injury or death of crew, passengers and other third parties, loss or damage to cargo, claims arising from collisions with other vessels, damage to other third-party property, pollution arising from oil or other substances, and salvage, towing and other related costs, including wreck removal. Protection and indemnity insurance is a form of mutual indemnity insurance, extended by protection and indemnity mutual associations, or “clubs.”
 
Star Bulk’s protection and indemnity insurance coverage for pollution is expected to be $1 billion per vessel per incident. The 14 P&I Associations that comprise the International Group insure approximately 90% of the world’s commercial tonnage and have entered into a pooling agreement to reinsure each association’s liabilities. Star Bulk’s vessels are expected to be members of the American Mutual Steamship Association. Each P&I Association has capped its exposure to this pooling agreement at $4.5 billion. As a member of a P&I Association, which is a member of the International Group, Star Bulk will be subject to calls payable to the associations based on its claim records as well as the claim records of all other members of the individual associations, and members of the pool of P&I Associations comprising the International Group.
 
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Legal Proceedings
 
Star Bulk is not currently a party to any material lawsuit that, if adversely determined, would have a material adverse effect on its financial position, results of operations or liquidity.
 
Exchange Controls
 
Under Marshall Island law, there are currently no restrictions on the export or import of capital, including foreign exchange controls or restrictions that affect the remittance of dividends, interest or other payments to non-resident holders of Star Bulk’s shares.
 
Star Bulk Principal Shareholders
 
Star Bulk was formed under the laws of the Republic of the Marshall Islands on December 13, 2006. Star Bulk is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Star Maritime. Concurrently with  the Redomiciliation Merger, Star Bulk will issue 12,537,645 shares of common stock to TMT in respect of the stock consideration portion of the aggregate purchase price for the vessels in the initial fleet. Under certain circumstances, Star Bulk may issue up to an additional 1,606,962 shares of common stock to TMT. See “Acquisition Agreements - Purchase Price.
 
The following table presents certain information regarding (1) the beneficial owner of more than 5% of Star Bulk’s common stock and (2) the total amount of common stock beneficially owned by all of our directors and executive officers as a group as of March 2, 2007, in each case after giving effect to the Redomiciliation Merger and the issuance of the Additional Stock to TMT.
 
 
 
Shares Beneficially
Owned Following the Redomiciliation Merger(2)(3) 
 
Shares Beneficially
Owned Following Issuance of Additional Stock (2)(3) 
 
 Name 
 
Number 
 
Percentage 
 
Number 
 
Percentage 
 
Prokopios (Akis) Tsirigakis(1)
 
4,007,392 
 
9.6%
 
4,007,392 
 
9.3%
 
George Syllantavos(1)
 
1,486,539
 
3.6%
 
1,486,539
 
3.4%
 
Christo Aragnostou(1)
 
   116,108
 
0.3%
 
   116,108
 
0.3%
 
Niko Nikiforos(1)
 
   116,108
 
0.3%
 
   116,108
 
0.3%
 
Petros Pappas(1)
 
3,947,873
 
9.5%
 
3,947,873
 
9.1%
 
Koert Erhardt(1)
 
   340,269
 
0.8%
 
   340,269
 
0.8%
 
Tom SØfteland(1)
 
   145,135
 
0.4%
 
   145,135
 
0.3%
 
Directors and executive officers as a group (7 individuals)
 
  10,159,424
 
24.4%
 
  10,159,424
 
23.5%
 
The Apogee Fund, Ltd. (5)
 
   233,410
 
0.6%
 
   233,410
 
0.5%
 
The Baupost Grpoup L.L.C. (9)   
   2,845,200
 
9.8%
 
    2,845,200
 
9.8%
 
Fir Tree Recovery (4)
 
   405,533
 
1.0%
 
   405,533
 
0.9%
 
Sapling, LLC (4)
 
2,112,630
 
7.3%
 
2,112,630
 
7.3%
 
Satellite Advisors, LLC (5)
 
   620,080
 
1.5%
 
   620,080
 
1.4%
 
Satellite Asset Management, L.P. (5)
 
2,961,787
 
7.1%
 
2,961,787
 
6.9%
 
Satellite Fund II, LP (5)
 
   521,840
 
1.3%
 
   521,840
 
1.2%
 
Satellite Fund IV, LP (5)
 
     98,240
 
0.2%
 
     98,240
 
0.2%
 
Satellite Fund Management LLC (5)
 
2,961,787
 
7.1%
 
2,961,787
 
6.9%
 
Satellite Overseas Fund IX, Ltd. (5)
 
   108,210
 
0.3%
 
   108,210
 
0.3%
 
Satellite Overseas Fund V, Ltd. (5)
 
   112,890
 
0.3%
 
   112,890
 
0.3%
 
Satellite Overseas Fund VI, Ltd. (5)
 
     49,110
 
0.1%
 
     49,110
 
0.1%
 
Satellite Overseas Fund VII, Ltd. (5)
 
     38,960
 
0.1%
 
     38,960
 
0.1%
 
Satellite Overseas Fund VIII, Ltd. (5)
 
     64,040
 
0.2%
 
     64,040
 
0.1%
 
Satellite Overseas Fund, Ltd. (5)
 
1,234,087
 
3.0%
 
1,234,087
 
2.9%
 
Satellite Strategic Finance Partners, Ltd. (5)
 
   501,000
 
1.2%
 
   501,000
 
1.2%
 
TMT - Before Additional Stock(6)(8)
 
  12,537,645
 
30.2%
 
  12,537,645
 
29.0%
 
Additional Stock - Issued End of Year 1(8)
 
     —
 
   —
 
   803,481
 
30.90%
 
Additional Stock - Issued End of Year 2(8)
 
     —
 
   —
 
   803,481
 
32.76%
 
 
(1)
Unless otherwise indicated, the business address of each of the individuals is 40 Ag. Konstantinou Avenue, Aethrion Center, Suite B34, Maroussi 15124 Athens, Greece. 
(2)
Does not include shares of common stock issuable upon exercise of warrants that are not exercisable in the next 60 days.
(3)
Our officers and directors have agreed to surrender to us for cancellation up to an aggregate of 200,000 shares in the event, and to the extent, stockholders exercise their right to redeem their shares for cash upon a business combination. The share amounts do not reflect any surrender of shares.
(4)
Derived from a joint filing of a Schedule 13G/A on February 14, 2006 filed by Sapling, LLC and Fir Tree Recovery. Fir Tree, Inc. is the investment manager of both Sapling LLC and Fir Tree Recovery.
(5)
Derived from a joint filing of a Schedule 13G on October 2, 2006 by Satellite I, Satellite II, Satellite IV (collectively, the "Delaware Funds") over which Satellite Advisors has discretionary trading authority, as general partner, and (ii) Satellite Overseas, Apogee, Satellite Overseas V, Satellite Overseas VI, Satellite Overseas VII, Satellite Overseas VIII, Satellite Overseas IX and SSFP (collectively, the "Offshore Funds" and together with the Delaware Funds, the "Satellite Funds") over which Satellite Asset Management has discretionary investment trading authority. The general partner of Satellite Asset Management is Satellite Fund Management. Satellite Fund Management and Satellite Advisors each share the same four members that make investment decisions on behalf of the Satellite Funds.
(6)
Shares being issued concurrently with the Redomiciliation Merger to TMT as agent for its subsidiaries.
(7)
Based on the current holdings of the officers, directors and 5% holders of Star Maritime as of February 1, 2007.
(8)
If certain revenue targets are achieved, Star Bulk will issue up to an aggregate of 1,606,962 additional shares of the Star Bulk’s common stock to TMT.
(9)
Derived from a filing of a Schedule 13G on February 13, 2007 by the Baupost Group, L.L.C.
 
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SELECTED FINANCIAL INFORMATION OF STAR BULK CARRIERS CORP.
 
Because Star Bulk was incorporated on December 13, 2006, and has no operating history, Star Bulk does not have any historical financial statements for any period other than a balance sheet as of February 5, 2007, which is included later in this joint proxy statement/prospectus.

   
As of February 5, 2007
 
Assets
     
Current assets
     
Cash and cash equivalents
   
1,000
 
Total current assets
   
1,000
 
         
Total assets
   
1,000
 
         
Liabilities and Shareholders' Equity
       
         
Commitments and contingencies (Note 4)
   
-
 
         
Shareholders’ Equity
       
Common stock (100,000,000 shares authorized, par value $0.01 per share, 500 issued and outstanding)
   
5
 
Preferred stock (25,000,000 shares authorized, par value $0.01 per share, none issued and outstanding)         
Paid-in capital
   
995
 
Total shareholders' equity
   
1,000
 
Total liabilities and shareholders’ equity
   
1,000
 
 
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MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATION OF
STAR BULK CARRIERS CORP.
 
The following is a discussion of Star Bulk’s financial condition and results of operations from the date of inception of its corporate existence, December 13, 2006, through February 5, 2007. You should read this together with the consolidated financial statements including the notes to those financial statements for the periods mentioned above.
 
General
 
Lack of Historical Operating Data for Vessels Before their Acquisition
 
Consistent with shipping industry practice, other than inspection of the physical condition of the vessels and examinations of classification society records, there is no historical financial due diligence process when Star Bulk acquires vessels. Accordingly, Star Bulk does not obtain the historical operating data for the vessels from the sellers because that information is not material to its decision to make acquisitions. Generally, vessels are sold under a standardized agreement, which, among other things, provides the buyer with the right to inspect the vessel and the vessel’s classification society records. The standard agreement does not give the buyer the right to inspect, or receive copies of, the historical operating data of the vessel. Prior to the delivery of a purchased vessel, the seller typically removes from the vessel all records, including past financial records and accounts related to the vessel. In addition, the technical management agreement between the seller’s technical manager and the seller is automatically terminated and the vessel’s trading certificates are revoked by its flag state following a change in ownership.
 
Consistent with shipping industry practice, Star Bulk treats the acquisition of a vessel (whether acquired with or without charter) as the acquisition of an asset rather than a business. Star Bulk has agreed to acquire six vessels with time charters and may, in the future, acquire some vessels with or without time charters. Where a vessel has been under a voyage charter, the vessel is delivered to the buyer free of charter, and it is rare in the shipping industry for the last charterer of the vessel in the hands of the seller to continue as the first charterer of the vessel in the hands of the buyer. In most cases, when a vessel is under time charter and the buyer wishes to assume that charter, the vessel cannot be acquired without the charterer’s consent and the buyer’s entering into a separate direct agreement with the charterer to assume the charter. The purchase of a vessel itself does not transfer the charter, because it is a separate service agreement between the vessel owner and the charterer. Consistent with shipping industry practice, vessels are delivered debt-free, whether or not they had previously been mortgaged.
 
Star Bulk will take the following steps before an acquired vessel commences operations, which substantially eliminate any continuity with operations prior to the vessel’s acquisition:
 
·
register the vessel under a new flag state and perform the related inspections;
 
·
put in place new commercial management, with a different marketing system and sales force;
   
·
put in place new financing arrangements and/or senior debt with the vessels as collateral;
   
·
negotiate and enter into a new technical management agreement;
   
·
change the name of the vessel and the formal markings of the vessel;
 
·
arrange for new crew for the vessel;
 
·
replace all hired equipment on board, such as gas cylinders and communication equipment;
 
·
negotiate and enter into new insurance contracts for the vessel through Star Bulk’s own insurance brokers;
 
·
obtain new trading certificates for the vessel from the flag state;
 
·
implement a new confidential and proprietary security system for the vessel under the new owner;
 
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·
implement a new planned maintenance program for the vessel; and
 
·
ensure that the new technical manager obtains new certificates for compliance with the safety and vessel security regulations of the flag state.
 
Discussion of the Business of Star Bulk
 
The following discussion is intended to help you understand how acquisitions of vessels affect Star Bulk’s business and results of operations.
 
Star Bulk’s business will be comprised of the following main elements:
 
·
employment and operation of Star Bulk’s drybulk carriers; and
 
·
management of the financial, general and administrative elements involved in the conduct of Star Bulk’s business and ownership of the drybulk carriers.
 
The employment and operation of Star Bulk’s vessels require the following main components:
 
·
vessel maintenance and repair;
 
·
crew selection and training;
 
·
vessel spares and stores supply;
 
·
contingency response planning;
 
·
onboard safety procedures and auditing;
 
·
onboard security procedures and auditing;
 
·
accounting;
 
·
vessel insurance arrangement;
 
·
vessel chartering;
 
·
vessel hire management;
 
·
vessel surveying; and
 
·
vessel performance monitoring.
 
The management of financial, general and administrative elements involved in the conduct of Star Bulk’s business and ownership of its vessels requires the following main components:
 
·
management of Star Bulk’s financial resources, including banking relationships, i.e., administration of bank loans and bank accounts;
 
·
management of Star Bulk’s accounting system and records and financial reporting;
 
·
administration of the legal and regulatory requirements affecting Star Bulk’s business and assets; and
 
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·
management of the relationships with Star Bulk’s service providers and customers.
 
The principal factors that affect Star Bulk’s profitability, cash flows and shareholders’ return on investment include:
 
·
rates and periods of charter hire;
 
·
levels of vessel operating expenses;
 
·
depreciation expenses;
 
·
financing costs;
 
·
off-hire periods, if any; and
 
·
cost and duration of dry dockings.
 
Factors Affecting Star Bulks’ Future Results of Operations
 
Star Bulk’s revenues will consist of revenues from employment of the vessels under time charters and spot charters. Star Bulk may, in the future, employ vessels under bareboat charters or in drybulk carrier pools. Star Bulk believes that the important measures for analyzing trends in the results of the operations consist of the following:
 
Ownership days. Star Bulk defines ownership days as the total number of days in a period during which each vessel in the fleet was owned by Star Bulk. Ownership days are an indicator of the size of the fleet over a period and affect both the amount of revenues and the amount of expenses that we record during that period.
 
Available days. Star Bulk defines available days as the number of ownership days less the aggregate number of off hire days associated with major repairs, dry-dockings or special or intermediate surveys. The shipping industry uses available days to measure the number of days in a period during which vessels should be capable to generate revenues.
 
Voyage days. Star Bulk defines voyage days as the total number of available days less the aggregate number of days that our vessels are off-hire due to any reason, including unforeseen circumstances. The shipping industry uses voyage days to measure the number of days in a period during which vessels actually generate revenues.
 
Fleet utilization. We will calculate fleet utilization by dividing the number of voyage days during a period by the number of ownership days during that period. The shipping industry uses fleet utilization to measure a company’s efficiency in finding suitable employment for its vessels and minimizing the amount of days that its vessels are off hire for reasons other than scheduled repairs, vessel upgrades, dry-dockings or special or intermediate surveys.
 
Charter Contracts. A time charter is a contract for the use of a vessel for a specific period of time during which the charterer pays substantially all of the voyage expenses, including port and canal charges, and bunkers expenses, but the vessel owner pays the vessel operating expenses and commissions on gross voyage revenues. In the case of a spot market charter, the vessel owner pays both voyage expenses (less specified amounts, if any, covered by the voyage charterer), commissions on gross revenues and vessel operating expenses. Time charter rates are usually fixed during the term of the charter. Prevailing time charter rates fluctuate on a seasonal and year to year basis and may be substantially higher or lower from a prior time charter contract when the subject vessel is seeking to renew that prior charter or enter into a new charter with another charterer. Fluctuations in charter rates are caused by imbalances in the availability of cargoes for shipment and the number of vessels available at any given time to transport these cargoes. Fluctuation in time charter rates are influenced by changes in spot charter rates.
 
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Revenues

Voyage Revenues
 
Voyage revenues are driven primarily by the number of vessels in our fleet, the number of voyage days and the amount of daily charterhire, or time charter equivalent, that our vessels earn under charters, which, in turn, are affected by a number of factors, including our decisions relating to vessel acquisitions and disposals, the amount of time that we spend positioning our vessels, the amount of time that our vessels spend in dry-dock undergoing repairs, maintenance and upgrade work, the age, condition and specifications of our vessels, levels of supply and demand in the seaborne transportation market and other factors affecting spot market charter rates for vessels.
 
Vessels operating on time charters for a certain period of time provide more predictable cash flows over that period of time, but can yield lower profit margins than vessels operating in the spot charter market during periods characterized by favorable market conditions. Vessels operating in the spot charter market generate revenues that are less predictable but may enable us to capture increased profit margins during periods of improvements in charter rates although we are exposed to the risk of declining vessel rates, which may have a materially adverse impact on our financial performance. If we employ vessels on period time charters, future spot market rates may be higher or lower than the rates at which we have employed our vessels on period time charters.
 
Time Charter Equivalent (TCE)
 
A standard maritime industry performance measure used to evaluate performance is the daily time charter equivalent, or daily TCE. Daily TCE revenues are voyage revenues minus voyage expenses divided by the number of voyage days during the relevant time period. Voyage expenses primarily consist of port, canal and fuel costs that are unique to a particular voyage, which would otherwise be paid by a charterer under a time charter, as well as commissions. We believe that the daily TCE neutralizes the variability created by unique costs associated with particular voyages or the employment of vessels on time charter or on the spot market and presents a more accurate representation of the revenues generated by our vessels.
 
Vessel Operating Expenses

Vessel operating expenses include crew wages and related costs, the cost of insurance and vessel registry, expenses relating to repairs and maintenance, the costs of spares and consumable stores, tonnage taxes, regulatory fees, technical management fees and other miscellaneous expenses. Other factors beyond Star Bulk’s control, some of which may affect the shipping industry in general, including, for instance, developments relating to market prices for crew wages and insurance, may also cause these expenses to increase. Technical vessel managers will establish an operating expense budget for each vessel and perform the day-to-day management of the vessels. Star Bulk Management will monitor the performance of each of the technical vessel managers by comparing actual vessel operating expenses with the operating expense budget for each vessel. Star Bulk will be responsible for the costs of any deviations from the budgeted amounts.
 
Depreciation
 
Star Bulk will depreciate its vessels on a straight-line basis over their estimated useful lives determined to be 25 years from the date of their initial delivery from the shipyard. Depreciation is based on cost less the estimated residual value.
 
General and Administrative Expenses
 
Star Bulk will incur general and administrative expenses, including its onshore vessel related expenses such as legal and professional expenses. Star Bulk’s general and administrative expenses also include payroll expenses, including those relating to its executive officers, and rent. Star Bulk expects general and administrative expenses to reflect the costs associated with running a public company including board of director costs, director and officer insurance, investor relations, registrar and transfer agent fees and increased legal and accounting costs related to compliance with the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002, or SOX, and the acquisition of the initial fleet. 
 
Financing Fees

Star Bulk will defer financing fees and expenses incurred upon entering into its credit facility and will amortize them to interest and financing costs over the term of the underlying obligation using the effective interest method.
 
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Special or Intermediate Survey and Drydocking Costs
 
Star Bulk will account for special or intermediate survey and dry-docking costs by expensing actual costs incurred during the period in which they were incurred.
 
Liquidity and Capital Resources
 
Star Bulk’s working capital requirements relate to the operation of its fleet, including vessel operating expenses and debt service. Star Bulk’s operating cash flows will be generated from charters arranged on its vessels, through its subsidiaries. Star Bulk’s subsidiaries will have no existing restrictions for the transfer of funds to Star Bulk other than those included in the credit facility. Please read “Acquisition Financing”. Star Bulk estimates that following the delivery of the vessels and taking into account generally expected market conditions, internally generated cash flow from its charters will be sufficient to fund its working capital requirements.
 
Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosure of Market Risk
 
Interest Rate Fluctuation
 
Star Bulk expects that its credit facility will bear interest at LIBOR plus a margin ranging from 0.08% to 1.00%. Increasing interest rates could adversely affect Star Bulk’s future profitability. Assuming that $120,000,000 is drawn down at June 30, 2007, a 100 basis point increase in LIBOR would result in an increase in interest expense of approximately $600,000 for the year ended December 31, 2007. Star Bulk intends to limit its exposure to interest rate fluctuations under its credit facility by entering into interest rate swaps.
 
Foreign Exchange Rate Risk
 
Star Bulk will generate revenues in U.S. dollars but incur a portion of its vessel operating expenses and general and administrative costs in other currencies, primarily the Euro. Star Bulk will monitor trends in foreign exchange rates closely and actively manage its exposure to foreign exchange rates. Star Bulk will maintain foreign currency accounts and buy foreign currency forwards in anticipation of its future requirements in an effort to manage foreign exchange risk.
 
Capital Expenditures
 
The aggregate purchase price for the vessels is $345,237,520, consisting of $224,500,000 in cash and 12,537,645 shares of common stock. The source of funds to complete the acquisition of the vessels will be funds in the Trust Account, together with borrowings under the new senior secured credit facility.
 
Inflation
 
Management of Star Bulk does not consider inflation to be a significant risk to direct expenses in the current and foreseeable economic environment.
 
Off-balance sheet arrangements
 
As of the date of this joint proxy statement/prospectus, Star Bulk does not have any off-balance sheet arrangements.
 
Contractual Obligations
 
As of December 31, 2006, Star Bulk did not have any long term debt, capital lease obligations, operating lease obligations, purchase obligations or other long term liabilities.
 
Critical Accounting Policies

Following the Redomiciliation Merger, management expects to make certain estimates and judgments in connection with the preparation of Star Bulk’s financial statements, which will be prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States, or U.S. GAAP, that affect the reported amount of assets and liabilities, revenues and expenses and related disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of Star Bulk’s financial statements. Actual results may differ from these estimates under different assumptions or conditions.
 
Critical accounting policies are those that reflect significant judgments or uncertainties, and potentially result in materially different results under different assumptions and conditions. Star Bulk has described below what it believes will be the most critical accounting policies that involve a high degree of judgment and the methods of their application.

Impairment of long-lived assets.    Star Bulk will evaluate the carrying amounts and periods over which long-lived assets are depreciated to determine if events have occurred which would require modification to their carrying values or useful lives. In evaluating useful lives and carrying values of long-lived assets, Star Bulk will review certain indicators of potential impairment, such as undiscounted projected operating cash flows, vessel sales and purchases, business plans and overall market conditions. Star Bulk will determine undiscounted projected net operating cash flows for each vessel and compare it to the vessel carrying value. In the event that impairment occurred, Star Bulk would determine the fair value of the related asset and would record a charge to operations calculated by comparing the asset's carrying value to the estimated fair market value. Star Bulk estimates fair market value primarily through the use of third party valuations performed on an individual vessel basis.

Depreciation.    Star Bulk will record the value of its vessels at their cost (which includes acquisition costs directly attributable to the vessel and expenditures made to prepare the vessel for its initial voyage) less accumulated depreciation. Star Bulk will depreciate its vessels on a straight-line basis over their estimated useful lives, estimated to be 25 years from date of initial delivery from the shipyard. Star Bulk believes that a 25-year depreciable life is consistent with that of other ship owners. Furthermore, Star Bulk estimates the residual values of its vessels to be $200 per light-weight ton which it believes is common in the dry bulk shipping industry. Depreciation is based on cost less the estimated residual scrap value. An increase in the useful life of the vessel or in the residual value would have the effect of decreasing the annual depreciation charge and extending it into later periods. A decrease in the useful life of the vessel or in the residual value would have the effect of increasing the annual depreciation charge.

Deferred drydock costs.    Star Bulk’s vessels will be required to be drydocked for major repairs and maintenance that cannot be performed while the vessel is operating approximately every 30 to 60 months. Star Bulk will capitalize the costs associated with the drydocks as they occur and amortize these costs on a straight line basis over the period between drydocks. Costs capitalized as part of the drydock include actual costs incurred at the drydock yard, cost of fuel consumed between the vessel's last discharge port prior to the drydock and the time the vessel leaves the drydock yard, cost of hiring riding crews to effect repairs on a ship and parts used in making such repairs that are reasonably made in anticipation of reducing the duration or cost of the drydock, cost of travel, lodging and subsistence of our personnel sent to the drydock site to supervise; and the cost of hiring a third party to oversee a drydock. Star Bulk believes that these criteria are consistent with GAAP guidelines and industry practice, and that its policy of capitalization reflects the economics and market values of the vessels.

Revenue Recognition. Revenues will be generated from the hire that Star Bulk will receive under time or period charters, although Star Bulk may also generate revenues from freights in respect of voyage charters that Star Bulk may enter. Time charter revenues will be recorded over the term of the charter as service is provided. Under a voyager charter, the revenues will be recognized ratably over the duration of the voyage from discharge port to discharge port . The relevant voyage costs will be recognized as incurred. In applying this revenue recognition method, we believe that the discharge-to-discharge basis of calculating voyages more accurately estimates voyage results that the alternative load-to-load basis. Since, at the time of discharge, Star Bulk generally will know the next load port and expected discharge port, the discharge-to-discharge calculation of voyage revenues can be estimated with a greater degree of accuracy.

Allowance for doubtful accounts.    Revenue is based on contracted charter parties and although our business will be with customers who Star Bulk believes to be of the highest standard, there is always the possibility of dispute over terms and payment of freight. In such circumstances, Star Bulk will assess the recoverability of amounts outstanding and Star Bulk will estimate a provision if there is a possibility of non-recoverability. Although Star Bulk believes our provisions to be based on fair judgment at the time of their creation, it is possible that an amount under dispute is not recovered and the estimated provision for doubtful recoverability is inadequate.

Subsequent Events

On February 7, 2007, Star Bulk formed the following wholly-owned subsidiaries registered in the Marshall Islands. The share capital of each of the subsidiaries consists of 500 authorized and issued shares without par value:

Star Alpha Inc.
Star Beta Inc.
Star Gamma Inc.
Star Epsilon Inc.
Star Iota Inc.
Star Theta Inc.
Star Zita Inc.
Star Bulk Management Inc.

Star Gamma Inc., a wholly-owned subsidiary of Star Bulk, entered into time a charter agreement dated, February 23, 2007, with TMT for the C Duckling (to be renamed the Star Gamma). The charter rate for the Star Gamma will be $28,500 per day for a term of one year. Star Iota Inc., a wholly-owned subsidiary of Star Bulk, entered into a time charter agreement, dated February 26, 2007, with TMT for the Mommy Duckling (to be renamed the Star Iota). The charter rate for the Star Iota will be $18,000 per day for a term of one year. Each charter will commence as of the date the vessel is delivered to the purchaser. Pursuant to the Supplemental Agreement, these time charters will be null and void if the Redomiciliation Merger is not consummated.
 
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THE INTERNATIONAL DRY BULK SHIPPING INDUSTRY
 
The information and data in this section relating to the international dry bulk shipping industry has been provided by Drewry Shipping Consultants (Drewry), and is taken from Drewry databases and other sources available in the public domain. Drewry has advised us that it accurately describes the international dry bulk shipping industry, subject to the availability and reliability of the data supporting the statistical and graphical information presented. Drewry’s methodologies for collecting information and data, and therefore the information discussed in this section, may differ from those of other sources, and does not reflect all or even necessarily a comprehensive set of the actual transactions occurring in the dry bulk shipping industry. The source of all tables and charts is Drewry unless otherwise indicated.

q
Introduction

The marine industry is a vital link in international trade, with oceangoing vessels representing the most efficient, and often the only means of transporting large volumes of basic commodities and finished products. Seaborne cargo is categorized as dry cargo or liquid cargo. Dry cargo includes dry bulk cargo, container cargo and non container cargo. Container cargo is shipped in 20 or 40 foot containers and includes a wide variety of finished products. Non-container cargo includes other dry cargo that cannot be shipped in a container due to size, weight or handling requirements, such as large manufacturing equipment or large industrial vehicles. Liquid cargo, includes crude oil, refined oil products, liquefied gases, chemicals and associated products, all of which are shipped in tankers.

In 2006, approximately 4,505 million tons of dry cargo was transported by sea, of which dry bulk cargo accounted for 2,62 million tons. The following table presents the breakdown of the global trade by type of cargo in 2006:

World Seaborne Trade - 2006*

   
Tons (Millions)
 
% Total Seaborne Trade
 
All Cargo
             
Dry Cargo
   
4,508
   
55.4
 
Liquid Cargo
   
3,627
   
44.6
 
Total
   
8,135
   
100.0
 
               
Dry Cargo
             
Dry Bulk
   
2,765
   
34.0
 
Major Bulks
   
1,681
   
20.7
 
Coal
   
699
   
8.6
 
Iron Ore
   
723
   
8.9
 
Grain
   
262
   
3.2
 
Minor Bulks
   
1,081
   
13.3
 
Container Cargo
   
1,170
   
14.4
 
Non Container/General Cargo
   
573
   
7.0
 
Total
   
4,508
   
55.4
 
=* Provisional
Source: Drewry

Dry bulk cargo can be further defined as either major bulk cargo or minor bulk cargo, all of which is shipped in bulk carriers. Major bulk cargo includes, among other things, iron ore, coal and grain. Minor bulk cargo includes agricultural products, mineral cargo (including metal concentrates), cement, forest products and metal products. Dry bulk cargo is normally shipped in large quantities and can be easily stowed in a single hold with little risk of cargo damage.
 
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Dry Bulk Shipping

q
Dry Bulk Carrier Demand

The demand for dry bulk carriers is determined by the volume and geographical distribution of seaborne dry bulk trade, which in turn is influenced by trends in the global economy. During the 1980s and 1990s seaborne dry bulk trade increased by slightly more than 2% per annum. However, between 2000 and 2006, seaborne dry bulk trade has risen from 2,108 to 2,765 million tons, an increase of 31%.

The following chart illustrates the changes in seaborne trade between the major and minor bulks in the period 2000 to 2006.

Dry Bulk Trade Development
(Million tons)
drybulkdevelop logo

p=provisional
Source: Drewry

Historically, certain economies have acted as the “primary driver” of dry bulk trade. In the 1990s Japan was the driving force, when buoyant Japanese industrial production stimulated demand for imported bulk commodities. More recently China has been the main driver behind the recent increase in seaborne dry bulk trade as high levels of economic growth have generated increased demand for imported raw materials. The following table illustrates China’s gross domestic product growth rate compared to that of the United States and the world during the periods indicated.
 
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GDP Growth
(% change)

Years
 
China
 
US
 
World
 
1981-1985
   
10.1
   
2.6
   
2.4
 
1986-1990
   
7.8
   
2.6
   
2.8
 
1991-1995
   
12
   
2.3
   
1.2
 
1996-2000
   
8.3
   
4.1
   
3.5
 
2001-2003
   
7.9
   
1.9
   
3.5
 
2004
   
10.1
   
3.9
   
5.3
 
2005
   
10.2
   
3.2
   
4.7
 
2006 (p)
   
10.5
   
3.3
   
5.0
 
 
p = provisional
Source: Drewry

In particular Chinese imports or iron ore alone increased from 55 million tons in 1999 to 271 million tons in 2005, which has generated much additional employment for the larger vessels in the dry bulk carrier fleet. In addition to coal and iron ore, Chinese imports of steel products have also increased sharply in the last five years, thereby creating additional demand for dry bulk carriers.

Chinese Iron Ore Imports
(Million Tonnes)

Year
 
Imports
 
% Change
 
2001
   
92.5
   
32.1
 
2002
   
111.3
   
20.3
 
2003
   
148.2
   
33.2
 
2004
   
208.1
   
40.4
 
2005
   
275.2
   
32.2
 
2006 (p)
   
325.2
   
18.2
 

p = provisional
Source: Drewry

The extent to which increases in dry bulk trade have affected demand for dry bulk carriers is shown in estimates of ton-mile demand. Ton-mile demand is calculated by multiplying the volume of cargo moved on each route by the distance of the voyage.  
 
The following table and chart below detail thechanges in ton-mile demand for the primary dry bulk commodities.
 
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Demand by Commodity
(Billion ton-miles)

   
2000
 
2001
 
2002
 
2003
 
2004
 
2005
 
2006(p)
 
Iron ore
   
2,560
   
2,580
   
2,741
   
3,050
   
3,463
   
3,905
   
4,268
 
Coal
   
2,482
   
2,583
   
2,583
   
2,910
   
3,386
   
3,638
   
3,775
 
Grain
   
1,289
   
1,360
   
1,256
   
1,290
   
1,317
   
1,341
   
1,389
 
Other Minor Bulks
   
4,043
   
3,991
   
4,215
   
4,367
   
4,581
   
4,762
   
5,020
 
Total Demand
   
10,374
   
10,514
   
10,795
   
11,617
   
12,747
   
13,646
   
14,455
 
% Change
   
3.3
%
 
1.3
%
 
2.7
%
 
7.6
%
 
9.7
%
 
7.1
%
 
5.9
%
 
p = provisional
Source: Drewry

Ton Mile Demand (Billion ton-miles)

 

Between 2000 and 2006, ton-mile demand in the dry bulk sector increased by 39%, equivalent to an average annual increase of 5.68%. This is however above the long term growth rate in ton mile demand in the dry bulk sector and reflects the rise in long haul movements, especially for commodities such as iron ore. Indeed, total ton mile demand in the major bulks increased from 6,300 to 9,400 billion ton miles between 2000 and 2006, equivalent to an average annual increase of 6.84%.
 
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Annual Changes (%) Dry Bulk Trade and Tonne Mile Demand
 

Dry bulk carriers are one of the most versatile elements of the global shipping fleet in terms of employment alternatives. They seldom operate on round trip voyages and the norm is often triangular or multi-leg voyages. Hence, trade distances assume greater importance in the demand equation and increases in long haul shipments will have greater impact on overall vessel demand. The following map represents the major global dry bulk trade routes.

Major Dry Bulk Seaborne Trade Routes
traderoutes logo
 
Source: Drewry
 
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Demand for dry bulk carrier capacity is also affected by the operating efficiency of the global fleet. In recent years the growth in trade has led to port congestion, with ships at times being forced to wait outside port to either load or discharge due to limited supply of berths at major ports. This inefficiency has been a further factor contributing to the general tightness in the market.

Seasonal variations in the commodity markets, including iron ore, steam coal and grain, can also have a further impact on demand for dry bulk carriers. For example, steam coal’s link to the energy and electricity markets results in increased demand when power companies increase their stock in winter months and when refrigeration and air conditioning increase electricity demand in summer months.

q
Dry Bulk Carrier Supply

The global dry bulk carrier fleet is divided into four categories based on a vessel’s carrying capacity. These categories are:

 
·
Capesize. Capesize vessels have carrying capacities of more than 100,000 deadweight tons (dwt). These vessels generally operate along long haul iron ore and coal trade routes. Only the largest ports around the world possess the infrastructure to accommodate vessels of this size.

 
·
Panamax. Panamax vessels have a carrying capacity of between 60,000 and 100,000 dwt. These vessels carry coal, grains, and, to a lesser extent, minor bulks, including steel products, forest products and fertilizers. Panamax vessels are able to pass through the Panama Canal, making them more versatile than larger vessels.

 
·
Handymax. Handymax vessels have a carrying capacity of between 30,000 and 60,000 dwt. These vessels operate on a large number of geographically dispersed global trade routes, carrying primarily grains and minor bulks. Vessels below 60,000 dwt are sometimes built with on-board cranes enabling them to load and discharge cargo in countries and ports with limited infrastructure.

 
·
Handysize. Handysize vessels have a carrying capacity of up to 30,000 dwt. These vessels carry exclusively minor bulk cargo. Increasingly, ships of this type operate on regional trading routes. Handysize vessels are well suited for small ports with length and draft restrictions that may lack the infrastructure for cargo loading and unloading.
 
88

 
The following tables illustrate the size and breakdown of the global dry bulk fleet as of December 2006.

Dry Bulk Carrier Fleet - December 2006
 
   
Current Fleet
 
Orderbook
 
Size
(‘000 dwt)
 
No.
 
Dwt
(Million)
 
% of Total Fleet
 
Dwt
(Million)
 
% of
Fleet
 
Capesize (100+)
   
703
   
119.3
   
33
%
 
37.1
   
31.1
%
Panamax (60-100)
   
1,398
   
101.6
   
28
%
 
20.3
   
20.0
%
Handymax (30-60)
   
2,417
   
103.7
   
28
%
 
22.8
   
22.0
%
Handysize (10-30)
   
1,918
   
43.5
   
12
%
 
1.9
   
4.4
%
Total
   
6,436
   
368.0
   
100
%
 
82.4
   
22.4
 

Source: Drewry

The supply of dry bulk carriers is dependent on the delivery of new vessels from the orderbook and the removal of vessels from the global fleet, either through scrapping or loss. As of January 2007, the global dry bulk orderbook amounted to 82.4 million dwt, or 22.4 of the existing dry bulk carrier fleet.

Dry Bulk Carrier Orderbook - January 2007

   
2007
 
2008
 
2009
 
2010
 
2011
 
2012
 
Grand Total
 
Sector
 
No
 
000 Dwt
 
No
 
000 Dwt
 
No
 
000 Dwt
 
No
 
000 Dwt
 
No
 
000 Dwt
 
No
 
000 Dwt
 
No
 
000 Dwt
 
10-30,000
   
55
   
1,222
   
13
   
277
   
18
   
363
   
4
   
79
                           
90
   
1,940
 
30-60,000
   
145
   
6,953
   
156
   
6,999
   
126
   
5,477
   
64
   
2,994
   
8
   
418
               
499
   
22,842
 
60-100,000
   
110
   
8,832
   
66
   
5,279
   
45
   
3,780
   
29
   
2,454
                           
250
   
20,344
 
100-150,000
               
2
   
206
                     
0
                           
2
   
206
 
150,000+
   
52
   
9,962
   
41
   
8,199
   
45
   
9,847
   
35
   
7,115
   
9
   
1,726
   
1
   
200
   
183
   
37,049
 
Grand Total
   
362
   
26,970
   
278
   
20,959
   
234
   
19,466
   
132
   
12,642
   
17
   
2,144
   
1
   
200
   
1,024
   
82,380
 
 
Source: Drewry

he number of ships removed from the fleet in any period is dependent upon prevailing market conditions, scrap prices in relation to current and prospective charter market conditions and the age profile of the existing fleet. Generally, as a vessel ages, its operational efficiency declines due to rising maintenance requirements to the point where it becomes unprofitable to keep the ship in operation. The following chart illustrates the age profile of the global dry bulk carrier fleet in December 2006.
 
89


Dry Bulk Carrier Age Profile -December 2006
 
carrierageprofile logo
 
Source: Drewry

The average age at which a dry bulk carrier has been scrapped over the last five years has been 26 years. However, due to recent strength in the dry bulk shipping industry, over the last two years the average age at which dry bulk carriers have been scrapped has increased and a number of well-maintained vessels have continued to operate past the age of 30.

Dry Bulk Carrier Scrapping

   
2000
 
2001
 
2002
 
2003
 
2004
 
2005
 
2006
 
Capesize - (Mdwt)*
   
0.6
   
0.5
   
1.0
   
0.3
   
0.1
   
0.1
   
0.3
 
Panamax - (Mdwt)*
   
0.7
   
1.9
   
1.2
   
0.5
   
0.1
   
0.2
   
0.5
 
Handymax- (Mdwt)*
   
1.5
   
1.5
   
0.9
   
1.1
   
0.0
   
0.2
   
0.4
 
Handysize - (Mdwt)*
   
1.2
   
1.4
   
1.6
   
0.6
   
0.1
   
0.1
   
0.4
 
Total Fleet (Mdwt)*
   
3.8
   
5.2
   
4.7
   
2.4
   
0.3
   
0.7
   
1.6
 
* Total fleet - end period
Source: Drewry

q
Charter Hire Rates
 
Dry bulk carriers are employed in the market through a number of different chartering options. The general terms typically found in these types of contracts are described below.
 
 
·
A bareboat charter involves the use of a vessel usually over longer periods of time ranging up to several years. In this case, all voyage related costs, including vessel fuel, or bunker, and port dues as well as all vessel operating expenses, such as day-to-day operations, maintenance, crewing and insurance, transfer to the charterer’s account. The owner of the vessel receives monthly charter hire payments on a per day basis and is responsible only for the payment of capital costs related to the vessel.
 
90


 
·
A time charter involves the use of the vessel, either for a number of months or years or for a trip between specific delivery and redelivery positions, known as a trip charter. The charterer pays all voyage related costs. The owner of the vessel receives semi-monthly charter hire payments on a per day basis and is responsible for the payment of all vessel operating expenses and capital costs of the vessel.
 
 
·
A single or spot voyage charter involves the carriage of a specific amount and type of cargo on a load-port to discharge-port basis, subject to various cargo handling terms. Most of these charters are of a single or spot voyage nature, as trading patterns do not encourage round voyage trading. The owner of the vessel receives one payment derived by multiplying the tons of cargo loaded on board by the agreed upon freight rate expressed on a per cargo ton basis. The owner is responsible for the payment of all expenses including voyage, operating and capital costs of the vessel.
 
 
·
A contract of affreightment, or COA, relates to the carriage of multiple cargoes over the same route and enables the COA holder to nominate different ships to perform individual voyages. Essentially, it constitutes a number of voyage charters to carry a specified amount of cargo during the term of the COA, which usually spans a number of years. All of the ship’s operating, voyage and capital costs are borne by the ship owner. The freight rate normally is agreed on a per cargo ton basis.
 
Charter hire rates fluctuate by varying degrees amongst the dry bulk carrier size categories. The volume and pattern of trade in a small number of commodities (major bulks) affect demand for larger vessels. Because demand for larger dry bulk vessels is affected by the volume and pattern of trade in a relatively small number of commodities, charter hire rates (and vessel values) of larger ships tend to be more volatile. Conversely, trade in a greater number of commodities (minor bulks) drives demand for smaller dry bulk carriers. Accordingly, charter rates and vessel values for those vessels are subject to less volatility.

Charter hire rates paid for dry bulk carriers are primarily a function of the underlying balance between vessel supply and demand, although at times other factors, such as sentiment may play a role. Furthermore, the pattern seen in charter rates is broadly mirrored across the different charter types and between the different dry bulk carrier categories.

In the time charter market, rates vary depending on the length of the charter period and vessel specific factors such as age, speed and fuel consumption.

In the voyage charter market, rates are influenced by cargo size, commodity, port dues and canal transit fees, as well as delivery and redelivery regions. In general, a larger cargo size is quoted at a lower rate per ton than a smaller cargo size. Routes with costly ports or canals generally command higher rates than routes with low port dues and no canals to transit. Voyages with a load port within a region that includes ports where vessels usually discharge cargo or a discharge port within a region that includes ports where vessels load cargo also are generally quoted at lower rates. This is because such voyages generally increase vessel utilization by reducing the unloaded portion (or ballast leg) that is included in the calculation of the return charter to a loading area.
 
91


Within the dry bulk shipping industry, the charter hire rate references most likely to be monitored are the freight rate indices issued by the Baltic Exchange. These references are based on actual charter hire rates under charter entered into by market participants as well as daily assessments provided to the Baltic Exchange by a panel of major shipbrokers. The Baltic Panamax Index is the index with the longest history.
 
Baltic Exchange Freight Indices
(Index points)
 
balticexchange logo
 
The BSI replaced the BHMI on 03.01.06, although the index has been calculated since 01.07.05
 
Source: Baltic Exchange

92


The following chart illustrates one-year time charter rates for Handysize, Handymax, Panamax and Capesize dry bulk carriers between 1996 and December 2006.

Time Charter Rates - 1 Year
(US Dollars per day)
 
timecharterrates logo
 
Source: Drewry

In 2003 and 2004, rates for dry bulk carriers of all sizes strengthened appreciably in comparison to historical levels as vessel supply and demand were finely balanced. The main driver of this dramatic upsurge in charter rates was primarily the high level of demand for raw materials imported by China.

During 2005 and the early part of 2006 rates were generally quite volatile, but towards the end of the year rates strengthened again in all size categories. Whilst rates remain volatile, it is important to note that they remain above historical long-term averages.

q
Vessel Prices 

Newbuilding prices are determined by a number of factors, including the underlying balance between shipyard output and capacity, raw material costs, freight markets and sometimes exchange rates. In the period 2003 to 2005 high levels of new ordering were recorded across all sectors of shipping. As a result, most of the major shipyards in Japan, South Korea and China have full orderbooks until the end of 2009.

The following charts indicates the change in newbuilding prices for dry bulk carriers in the period from 1996. As can be seen newbuilding prices have increased significantly since 2003, due to tightness in shipyard capacity, high levels of new ordering and stronger freight rates.
 
93

 
Dry Bulk Carrier Newbuilding Prices
(Millions of US Dollars)
drybulkcarrier logo

Source: Drewry

In the secondhand market, the steep increase in newbuilding prices and the strength of the charter market have also affected values, to the extent that prices rose sharply in 2004/2005, before dipping in the early part of 2006, only to rise once more as the year came to a close.
 
Dry Bulk Carrier Secondhand Prices - 5 Year Old Vessels
(Millions of US Dollars)
 
secondhandprices logo
 
Source: Drewry
 
94

 
DIVIDEND POLICY OF STAR BULK
 
Star Bulk currently intends to pay quarterly dividends to the holders of its common shares, in February, May, August and November, in amounts that will allow it to retain a portion of its cash flows to fund vessel or fleet acquisitions, and for debt repayment and dry-docking costs, as determined by its management and board of directors. The payment of dividends is not guaranteed or assured and may be discontinued at the sole discretion of Star Bulk’s board of directors and may not be paid in the anticipated amounts and frequency set forth in this joint proxy statement/prospectus. Star Bulk’s board of directors will continually review its dividend policy and make adjustments that it believes appropriate. 
 
Based upon and subject to the assumptions and forecasts included in the section “Star Bulk’s Forecasted Cash Available for Dividends, Reserves and Extraordinary Expenses,” Star Bulk intends to pay its first dividend, which it estimates will be in the amount of $0.325 per common share, in November 2007, in respect of the period from the commencement of Star Bulk’s operations through September 30, 2007. Please read “Star Bulk’s Forecasted Cash Available for Dividends, Reserves and Extraordinary Expenses.”
 
The timing and amount of dividend payments will be dependent upon Star Bulk’s earnings, financial condition, cash requirements and availability, fleet renewal and expansion, restrictions in its credit facility, the provisions of Marshall Islands law affecting the payment of distributions to stockholders and other factors. Star Bulk’s ability to pay dividends will be limited by the amount of cash it can generate from operations, primarily the charter hire, net of commissions, received by Star Bulk under the charters for its vessels during the preceding calendar quarter, less expenses for that quarter, consisting primarily of vessel operating expenses (including management fees), general and administrative expenses, debt service, maintenance expenses and the establishment of any reserves as well as additional factors unrelated to its profitability. These reserves may cover, among other things, future dry-docking, repairs, claims, liabilities and other obligations, interest expense and debt amortization, acquisitions of additional assets and working capital.
 
Because Star Bulk is a holding company with no material assets other than the shares of its subsidiaries which will directly own the vessels in Star Bulk’s fleet, Star Bulk’s ability to pay dividends will depend on the earnings and cash flow of its subsidiaries and their ability to pay dividends to Star Bulk. Star Bulk cannot assure you that, after the expiration or earlier termination of its charters, Star Bulk will have any sources of income from which dividends may be paid. If there is a substantial decline in the charter market, this would negatively affect Star Bulk’s earnings and limit its ability to pay dividends. Please read “Risk Factors—Company Risk Factors Relating to the Surviving Corporation—Star Bulk may not pay dividends.” In particular, Star Bulk’s ability to pay dividends is subject to its ability to satisfy certain financial covenants that may be contained in the credit facility that Star Bulk expects to enter into.
 
95

 
STAR BULK’S FORECASTED CASH AVAILABLE FOR DIVIDENDS, RESERVES
AND EXTRAORDINARY EXPENSES
 
All of the information set forth below is for illustrative purposes only. The underlying assumptions may prove to be incorrect. Actual results will almost certainly differ, and the variations may be material. The information set forth below has not been prepared in accordance with United States generally accepted accounting principles. Star Bulk may have materially lower revenues, set aside substantial reserves or incur a material amount of extraordinary expenses. You should not assume or conclude that we will pay any dividends in any period.
 
Star Bulk does not as a matter of course make public projections as to future sales, earnings, or other results. However, the management of Star Bulk has prepared the prospective financial information set forth below to present the forecasted cash available for dividends, reserves, and extraordinary expenses during Star Bulk's first full operating quarter. The accompanying prospective financial information was not prepared to comply with a view toward complying with the guidelines established by the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants with respect to prospective financial information, but, in the view of Star Bulk’s management, was prepared on a reasonable basis, reflects the best currently available estimates and judgments, and presents, to the best of management's knowledge and belief, the expected course of action and the expected future financial performance of Star Bulk. However, this information is not fact and should not be relied upon as being necessarily indicative of future results, and readers of this joint proxy/ prospectus are cautioned not to place undue reliance on the prospective financial information.
 
Neither Star Bulk’s independent registered public accounting firm, nor any other independent accountants, have compiled, examined, or performed any procedures with respect to the prospective financial information contained herein, nor have they expressed any opinion or any other form of assurance on such information or its achievability, and assume no responsibility for, and disclaim any association with, the prospective financial information.
 
Star Bulk has prepared the forecasted financial information to present the cash that it expects to have available to it in the first full quarter after it completes the acquisition and delivery of the vessels in the initial fleet, which is referred to herein as Star Bulk’s first full operating quarter, for:
 
·  
dividends;
 
·  
expenses and reserves for vessel upgrades, repairs and drydocking;
 
·  
expenses and reserves for further vessel acquisitions;
 
·  
principal payments on the new credit facility;
 
·  
reserves required by lenders under Star Bulk’s loan agreements; and
 
·  
reserves as Star Bulk’s board of directors may from time to time determine are required for contingent and other liabilities and general corporate purposes.
 
Star Bulk calls these items “dividends, reserves and extraordinary expenses.”
 
You should not rely upon this prospective financial information as necessarily indicative of Star Bulk’s future results. We caution you not to place undue reliance on this forecasted financial information. Neither our independent registered public accounting firm , nor any other independent accountants or financial advisors has compiled, examined or performed any procedures related to this prospective financial information, nor have they expressed any opinion or any form of assurance on that information or Star Bulk’s ability to achieve it and assume no responsibility for, and disclaim any association with this prospective financial information.
 
96

 
The actual results achieved during Star Bulk’s first full operating quarter will vary from those set forth in the forecasted financial information, and those variations may be material. In addition, investors should not assume that the forecasted available cash for Star Bulk’s first full operating quarter may be extrapolated to any other period. As disclosed under “Risk Factors,” Star Bulk’s business and operations are subject to substantial risks which increase the uncertainty inherent in the forecasted financial information. Many of the factors disclosed under “Risk Factors” could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed in the forecasted financial information. The forecasted financial information assumes the successful implementation of Star Bulk’s business strategy. No assurance can be given that Star Bulk’s business strategy will be effective or that the benefits of Star Bulk’s business strategy will be realized during its first full operating quarter, if ever.
 
The forecasted financial information should be read together with the information contained in “Risk Factors,” “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operation of Star Bulk Carriers Corp.” and Star Bulk’s financial statements contained herein.
 
Star Bulk intends to, but is not required to, pay quarterly dividends beginning in November 2007. The timing and amount of dividend payments will depend upon Star Bulk’s earnings from the drybulk carriers in the initial fleet, financial condition, cash requirements and availability, Marshall Islands law affecting the payment of dividends and other factors discussed below. Star Bulk intends to declare these dividends in amounts equal to its available cash flow, which is equal to (x) the sum of Star Bulk’s total revenues from vessel operations less (y) the sum of Star Bulk’s total cash expenses and any reserves it sets aside each quarter. These reserves may cover among other things, acquisitions of additional vessels, principal payments on Star Bulk’s credit facility, future drydocking costs, repairs, claims and other liabilities and obligations.
 
Based upon and subject to the assumptions and forecasts contained in this section, Star Bulk intends to pay its first dividend, which it estimates will be in the amount of $0.325 per common share, in November 2007, in respect of the period from the commencement of Star Bulk’s operations through September 30, 2007. Star Bulk expects that its revenues during the first full operating quarter will be limited to the time charter revenues from its vessels.
 
The following table contains information based on assumptions regarding the initial fleet and the charter rates earned by the vessels during the first full quarter of Star Bulk’s operations. TMT has undertaken to procure the employment of six of the eight vessels in the initial fleet under time charters with first class charterers, subject to such minimum terms and aggregate targeted daily time charter hire rates and upon standard industry terms for employment of the vessels. If the aggregate target daily time charter hire rate is not achieved, TMT has agreed to pay Star Bulk the difference between the aggregate daily hire rate fixed by TMT for the vessels in the initial fleet under the time charters and the agreed aggregate minimum daily time charter hire rate.
 
As of the date of this joint proxy statement/prospectus, TMT has procured time charters for four of the eight vessels in the initial fleet in accordance with the terms of the Acquisition  Agreements. Each time charter will be novated to the relevant Star Bulk vessel-owning subsidiary upon delivery of the relevant vessel. Star Gamma Inc., a wholly-owned subsidiary of Star Bulk, entered into time a charter agreement dated, February 23, 2007, with TMT for the C Duckling (to be renamed the Star Gamma). Star Iota Inc., a wholly-owned subsidiary of Star Bulk, entered into a time charter agreement, dated February 26, 2007, with TMT for the Mommy Duckling (to be renamed the Star Iota). The charter rates provided in the following table are based on these charters. However there can be no assurance that each of Star Bulk’s charterers will fully perform under the respective charters or that Star Bulk will actually receive the amounts anticipated. As a result, there can be no assurance that the vessels in the initial fleet will earn daily charter rates during Star Bulk’s first full quarter of operations that are equal to those provided in the table below.
 
Vessel Name (1)
 
Charter Rate
($ per day) (2)
 
Charter Commissions (3)
 
Star Alpha
   
47,500
   
5.00%
 
Star Beta(4)
   
55,000
   
5.00%
 
Star Gamma
   
28,500
   
0.00%
 
Star Delta
   
25,800
   
5.00%
 
Star Epsilon
   
25,550
   
4.75%
 
Star Zita
   
30,500
   
5.00%
 
Star Theta(4)
   
28,500
   
5.00%
 
Star Iota
   
18,000
   
0.00%
 
 
97

 
(1) Each vessel name is the new name Star Bulk will designate to the vessel following its delivery from the seller.
 
(2) The charter rates do not reflect commissions payable to third party chartering brokers.
 
(3) Represents Star Bulk’s agreed upon charter commissions to third party chartering brokers.
 
(4) The charter rate for the Star Beta and Star Theta represent Star Bulk’s assessment of currently prevailing spot market rates for these vessels.

We expect that Star Bulk’s expenses during the first full operating quarter will consist of:
 
·  
Estimated average vessel operating expenses for the fleet of $4,850 per vessel per calendar day which includes management fees for all of the vessels payable to Star Bulk Management’s technical manager.
 
·  
Interest expense on Star Bulk’s credit facility. Star Bulk has assumed that:
 
–  
Star Bulk will have outstanding, during its first full operating quarter, an aggregate principal amount of $40,000,000 under its credit facility; and
 
–  
the interest rate on the credit facility, including margin, will be 6.50% representing current three-month LIBOR plus a margin of 0.80%.
 
·  
General and administrative expenses including salaries payable to Star Bulk’s officers and employees and directors’ fees, office rent, travel, communications, insurance, legal, auditing and investor relations, professional expenses, which Star Bulk expects will equal $875,000.
 
Star Bulk does not expect to incur ordinary cash expenses other than those listed above, which Star Bulk calls its ordinary cash expenses. Star Bulk may, however, have unanticipated extraordinary cash expenses, which could include major vessel repairs and drydocking costs that are not covered by its management agreements, vessel upgrades or modifications that are required by new laws or regulations, other capital improvements, costs of claims and related litigation expenses or contingent liabilities.
 
For the first full operating quarter, Star Bulk expects to incur certain expenses in U.S. dollars. However, part of Star Bulk’s general administrative expenses and salaries will be incurred in Euros. Moreover, unanticipated extraordinary cash expenses may be incurred in foreign currencies. This difference could lead to fluctuations in net income due to changes in the value of the U.S. dollar relative to the Euro and other currencies. Expenses incurred in foreign currencies against which the U.S. dollar falls in value can increase, which would result in a decrease in Star Bulk’s net income.
 
The table below sets forth the amount of cash that would be available to Star Bulk for dividends, reserves and extraordinary expenses in the aggregate based on the assumptions listed below. This amount is not an estimate of the amounts Star Bulk expects to be available in later years, since some of its revenues and expenses may change in future years.
 
Star Bulk’s assumptions for the first full operating quarter include the following:
 
·  
Star Maritime stockholders approve and authorize the Redomiciliation Merger and no stockholders exercise redemption rights.
 
98

 
·  
The aggregate purchase price of the vessels in the initial fleet is $345,237,520.
 
·  
Star Bulk will borrow $40,000,000 under the credit facility to fund a portion of the cash consideration of the purchase price of the vessels in the initial fleet, fund working capital and pay certain expenses.
 
·  
The currency exchange rate between the Euro and the U.S. dollar will remain at 1.30:1.00 U.S. dollars per Euro.
 
·  
Each of the vessels in the initial fleet upon delivery to Star Bulk will earn daily time charter revenue described in the table above for 89.425 days and Star Bulk’s charterers will timely pay charter hire to it when due.
 
·  
Star Bulk will not receive any insurance proceeds or other income.
 
·  
Star Bulk will not sell any vessels and none of the vessels will suffer a total loss or constructive total loss or suffer any reduced hire or off-hire time.
 
·  
Star Bulk will have no other cash expenses or liabilities other than its estimated ordinary cash expenses.
 
·  
Star Bulk will remain in compliance with the terms of its credit facility that it expects to enter into.
 
·  
Star Bulk will qualify for the exemption available under Section 883 under the Code and will therefore not pay any U.S. federal income taxes.
 
·  
Star Bulk will not draw any further amounts under the credit facility.
 
Other than management fees, vessel operating expenses, interest expenses on Star Bulk’s credit facility, directors’ fees, and technical officers’ and employees’ salaries, which will be fixed for Star Bulk’s first full operating uqarter, none of Star Bulk’s fees or expenses are fixed.
 
Forecasted Cash Amount Available for Dividends,
Reserves and Extraordinary Expenses During Star Bulk’s First Full Operating Quarter

 
First Full Operating Quarter
 
 
(in thousands of U.S. dollars, except for per share data)
 
Forecasted Revenue
       
Gross charter revenue 
 
$23,192
 
Charter commissions  
 
(946
)
 
Net charter revenue 
 
$22,246
 
       
Forecasted Cash Expenses
     
Vessel management fees and operating expenses
 
$3,541
 
General and administrative expenses
875
 
Interest expense payable to lenders
 
650
 
Maintenance capital expenses
 
500
 
Total cash expenses
 
$5,566
 
        
Forecasted Available Cash(1) 
 
$16,680
 
Forecasted Available Cash per common share(1) (2) 
 
 
$0.401
 
 

(1)  
Star Bulk cannot assure you that it will have available cash in the amounts presented above, or at all, or that the lenders under its credit facility will not place restrictions on the payment of dividends.
 
(2)  
Following the Redomiciliation Merger, Star Bulk will have 41,564,569 shares of common stock issued and outstanding.
 
99

 
CAPITALIZATION OF STAR MARITIME
 
The following table sets forth the capitalization of Star Maritime as of December 31, 2006:
 
·  
on an actual basis;
   
·  
on an as adjusted basis giving effect to (i) the issuance of 12,537,645 shares of common stock to TMT (as agent for its vessel-owning subsidiaries) in respect of the stock consideration portion of the aggregate purchase price of the vessels in the initial fleet concurrently with the Redomiciliation Merger; (ii) the Redomiciliation Merger; (iii) the incurrence of $40,000,000 of indebtedness; (iv) no redemption of shares; and
   
·  
on an as further adjusted basis after giving effect to the issuance of up to an additional 1,606,962 shares of common stock to TMT or its nominated affiliates.

There have been no significant adjustments to Star Maritime’s capitalization since December 31, 2006, except for the formation of Star Bulk, as of Star Maritime Acquisition Corp. so adjusted. You should read this capitalization table together with “Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations” and the financial statements and related notes appearing elsewhere in this joint proxy statement/prospectus.
 
   
As of December 31, 2006
 
   
Actual
 
As Adjusted
 
As Further Adjusted
 
   
(In thousands of U.S. dollars)
 
Debt:
             
Long term debt
 
$
-
 
$
40,000  
$
40,000  
Common Stock, $.0001 par value, 6,599,999 shares subject to possible redemption, at redemption value of $9.80 per share
   
64,680
   
(64,680
)  
-
 
                     
Stockholders’ equity:
                   
Preferred stock, $0.0001 par value; 1,000,000
                   
shares authorized, none issued
   
-
   
-
   
-
 
Common Stock, $0.0001 par value, 100,000,000
                   
shares authorized; 29,026,924 shares issued
                   
and outstanding (including 6,599,999 shares subject to possible redemption)
   
3
    2     5  
Additional paid-in capital
   
120,422
   
180,478
   
300,920
 
Earnings accumulated in the development stage
   
3,088
   
2,163
   
5,251
 
Total stockholders’ equity
   
123,533
   
182,643
   
306,176
 
                     
Total capitalization
 
$
188,213
 
$
117,963
 
$
306,176
 

 
100

 
DILUTION
 
On May 15, 2005, certain officers and directors of Star Maritime purchased an aggregate of 9,026,924 shares of Star Maritime common stock at a purchase price of $0.003 per share. On December 15, 2006, certain officers and directors of Star Maritime purchased an aggregate of 1,132,500 units, each unit consisting of one share of common stock and one warrant to purchase one share of common stock at a purchase price of $10.00 per unit. On December 21, 2005, Star Maritime completed its initial public offering of 18,867,500 units at an initial public offering price of $10.00 per unit.

Concurrently with the Redomiciliation Merger, Star Bulk will issue 12,537,645 shares of common stock to TMT in respect of the stock consideration portion of the aggregate purchase price for the vessels in the initial fleet at a fair market value of $9.63 per share. Under certain circumstances, in the future, Star Bulk may issue an additional 1,606,962 shares of common stock to TMT.
 
The following table illustrates the pro forma per share dilution following the issuance to TMT:
 
Star Maritime Initial public offering price per unit
 
 
$10.00
 
Star Maritime Net tangible book value per share as of December 31, 2006
   
$6.65
 
Star Bulk Increase in net tangible book value attributable to issuance to TMT (1)
   
$120,737,521
 
Star Bulk Pro forma net tangible book value per share after giving effect to issuance to TMT (1)
   
$7.71
 
Star Bulk Dilution per share after issuance to TMT (1)
   
$1.92
 


   
Pro Forma Shares
 
Total Consideration
 
Average Price Per Share
 
   
Number
 
Percent
 
Amount
 
Percent
 
Founders’ Shares
 
 9,026,924      
 
 21.7%      
 
$25,000      
 
 <1%      
 
$.003      
 
Private Placement Investors
 
 1,132,500      
 
   2.7%      
 
$11,132,500      
 
   3%      
 
$10.00      
 
Investors in Initial Public Offering
 
   18,867,500      
 
 45.4%      
 
$188,675,000      
 
  59%      
 
$10.00      
 
TMT
 
   12,537,645      
 
 30.2%      
 
$120,737,521      
 
  38%      
 
$9.63      
 
Total
 
   41,564,569      
 
100%      
 
$320,570,021      
 
   100%      
 
$7.71      
 
 
(1) These items give effect to the issuance of shares of common stock of Star Bulk to TMT. Pursuant to the Redomiciliation Merger, each outstanding share of Star Maritime, par value $0.0001 per share, will be converted into the right to receive one share of Star Bulk common stock, par value $0.01 per share. 
 
101

 
RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS 
 
On May 17, 2005, Star Maritime issued an aggregate of 9,026,924 shares of Star Maritime’s common stock in a private transaction to the individuals set forth below for $25,000 in cash, at a purchase price of $0.003 per share, as follows:
 
Name
 
Number of
Shares
 
Relationship to Star Maritime
Prokopios (Akis) Tsirigakis
     
8,915,712
     
Chairman of the Board, Chief Executive Officer and President
George Syllantavos
 
22,387
 
Chief Financial Officer and Director
Christo Anagnostou
 
10,832
 
Vice President of Operations
Niko Nikiforos
 
10,832
 
Vice President of Business Development
Petros Pappas
 
22,387
 
Director
Koert Erhardt
 
22,387
 
Director
Tom Søfteland
 
22,387
 
Director

On June 6, 2005, Mr. Tsirigakis transferred in a private transaction an aggregate of 3,228,750 of his shares for $0.003 per share to the other officers and directors named above as follows:
 
 
Name
 
Number of
Shares
 
Christo Anagnostou
   
169,706
 
Niko Nikiforos
   
169,706
 
Petros Pappas
   
699,768
 
Koert Erhardt
   
428,959
 
Tom Søfteland
   
428,959
 
 
On October 19, 2005, Mr. Tsirigakis transferred in a private transaction an additional 2,029,570 shares and Messrs. Anagnostou, Nikiforos, Erhardt and Søfteland transferred an aggregate of 596,148 of the June 6, 2005 shares to Mr. Pappas.
 
The holders of the majority of these shares are entitled to make up to two demands that Star Maritime register these shares under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, or the Securities Act. The holders ofthe majority of these shares may elect to exercise these registration rights at any time after the date on which these shares of common stock are released from escrow, which, except in limited circumstances, is not before December 15, 2008. In addition, these stockholders have certain piggyback registration rights on registration statements filed subsequent to the date on which these shares of common stock are released from escrow. Star Maritime, and if the Redomiciliation Merger is approved, Star Bulk, as the successor to Star Maritime, will bear the expenses incurred inconnection with the filing of any such registration statements.
 
On December 15, 2005, Star Maritime issued an aggregate of 1,132,500 units, including shares of common stock and warrants to purchase common stock in a private placement to the individuals set forth below for $11,325,000 in cash, at a purchase price of $10.00 per unit, as follows:
 
 
Name
 
Number of
Units
 
 
Relationship to Star Maritime
Prokopios (Akis) Tsirigakis
 
350,000
 
Chairman of the Board, Chief Executive Officer and President
George Syllantavos
 
132,500
 
Chief Financial Officer and Director
Petros Pappas
 
600,000
 
Director
Koert Erhardt
 
 50,000
 
Director
 
 
102

 
Star Maritime has granted the holders of such units demand and piggyback registration rights with respect to the 1,132,500 shares, the 1,132,500 warrants and the 1,132,500 shares underlying the warrants at any time commencing on the date Star Maritime publicly announces that it has entered into a letter of intent with respect to a proposed a business combination. Star Maritime announced Star Bulk's entry into the Acquisition Agreements on January 17, 2007. The demand registration may be exercised by the holders of a majority of such units. In addition, Star Maritime has granted the holders of such units certain piggy back registration rights commencing at the time that Star Maritime consummates its initial business combination with a target business. Star Maritime, and if the Redomiciliation Merger is approved, Star Bulk, as the successor to Star Maritime, will bear the expenses incurred in connection with the filing of any such registration statements.
 
The table below outlines the number of shares, number of units and total number of shares, including shares in the units, held by our officers and directors on December 15, 2005.
 
 
Name
 
Number of Shares
Number of Units
 
Total Shares
 
 
Relationship to Star Maritime
Prokopios (Akis) Tsirigakis
 
3,657,392
 
350,000
 
4,007,392
 
Chairman of the Board, Chief Executive Officer and President
George Syllantavos
 
1,354,039
 
132,500
 
1,486,539
 
Chief Financial Officer and Director
Christo Anagnostou
 
116,108
     
116,108
 
Vice President of Operations
Niko Nikiforos
 
116,108
     
116,108
 
Vice President of Business Development
Petros Pappas
 
3,347,873
 
600,000
 
3,947,873
 
Director
Koert Erhardt
 
290,269
 
50,000
 
340,269
 
Director
Tom Søfteland
 
145,135
     
145,135
 
Director
 
Mr. Tsirigakis advanced a total of $590,000 at an interest rate of 4% per annum to us on May 17, May 26 and December 15, 2005 to cover expenses related to our Initial Public Offering. Star Maritime repaid these loans with interest upon completion of the offering.
 
Under the Master Agreement, Star Bulk has agreed, with some limited exceptions, to include the shares of Star Bulk’s common stock comprising the stock consideration portion of the aggregate purchase price and the Additional Stock, which we collectively refer to as the Registrable Securities, in Star Bulk’s registration statement of which this joint proxy statement/prospectus is a part. In addition, Star Bulk has granted TMT (on behalf of itself or its affiliates that hold Registrable Securities) the right, under certain circumstances and subject to certain restrictions, including lock-up and market stand-off restrictions, to require Star Bulk to in the future register the Registrable Securities under the Securities Act. Under the Master Agreement, TMT also has the right to require Star Bulk to make available shelf registration statements permitting sales of shares into the market from time to time over an extended period. In addition, TMT will have the ability to exercise certain piggyback registration rights, 180 days following the effective date of the Redomiciliation Merger. All expenses relating to such registration will be borne by Star Bulk. Following the Redomiciliation Merger, TMT and/or its affiliates will own 12,537,645 shares of Star Bulk’s common stock entitled to these registration rights and TMT and/or its affiliates may own up to additional 1,606,962 shares of Star Bulk’s common stock entitled to these registration rights in the event that Star Bulk achieves certain revenue targets.
 
Star Gamma Inc., a wholly-owned subsidiary of Star Bulk, entered into time a charter agreement dated, February 23, 2007, with TMT for the C Duckling (to be renamed the Star Gamma). Star Iota Inc., a wholly-owned subsidiary of Star Bulk, entered into a time charter agreement, dated February 26, 2007, with TMT for the Mommy Duckling (to be renamed the Star Iota). Effective as of the Redomiciliation Merger, Mr. Nobu Su and Mr. Peter Espig of TMT will serve on Star Bulk's board of directors.
 
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DESCRIPTION OF STAR MARITIME SECURITIES
 
Given below is a summary of the material features of Star Maritime’s securities. This summary is not a complete discussion of the certificate of incorporation and bylaws of Star Maritime that create the rights of its stockholders. You are urged to read carefully this joint proxy statement/prospectus. We also refer you to the certificate of incorporation and bylaws, which have been filed as exhibits to SEC reports filed by Star Maritime. Please see “Where You Can Find Additional Information.”
 
General
 
Star Maritime is authorized to issue 100,000,000 shares of common stock, par value $.0001, and 1,000,000 shares of preferred stock, par value $.0001. As of the date of this joint proxy statement/prospectus, 29,026,924 shares of common stock are outstanding, held by nine recordholders. No shares of preferred stock are currently outstanding.
 
Common stock
 
Star Maritime stockholders are entitled to one vote for each share held of record on all matters to be voted on by stockholders. In connection with the vote required for the Redomiciliation Merger, Messrs. Tsirigakis and Syllantavos, our senior executive officers, and Messrs. Pappas and Erhardt, two of our directors, have agreed to vote an aggregate of 1,132,500 shares of Star Maritime common stock acquired by them in the Private Placement and any shares of Star Maritime common stock they may acquire in the future in favor of the Redomiciliation Merger and thereby waive redemption rights with respect to such shares. All of Star Maritime’s officers and directors have agreed to vote an aggregate of 9,026,924 shares of Star Maritime common stock issued to them prior to our Initial Public Offering in accordance with the vote of the holders of a majority of the shares issued in our Initial Public Offering. Additionally, our officers and directors will vote all of their shares in any manner they determine, in their sole discretion, with respect to any other items that come before a vote of our stockholders.
 
Our board of directors is divided into three classes, each of which will generally serve for a term of three years with only one class of directors being elected in each year. There is no cumulative voting with respect to the election of directors, with the result that the holders of more than 50% of the shares voted for the election of directors can elect all of the directors.
 
If Star Maritime is forced to liquidate prior to a business combination, our public stockholders are entitled to share ratably in the Trust Account, inclusive of any interest (net of taxes payable), and any net assets remaining available for distribution to them after payment of liabilities. Our officers and directors have agreed to waive their rights to share in any distribution with respect to common stock owned by them if we are forced to liquidate.
 
Our stockholders have no redemption, preemptive or other subscription rights and there are no sinking fund or redemption provisions applicable to the common stock, except that public stockholders have the right to have their shares of common stock redeemed for cash equal to their pro rata share of the trust account if they vote against the Redomiciliation Merger, elect to exercise redemption rights and the Redomiciliation Merger is approved and completed. A stockholder who exercises redemption rights will continue to own any warrants to acquire Star Maritime common stock owned by such stockholder as such warrants will remain outstanding and unaffected by the exercise of redemption rights.
 
There are no limitations on the right of non-residents of Delaware to hold or vote Star Maritime’s common shares.
 
Preferred stock
 
Star Maritime’s certificate of incorporation authorizes the issuance of 1,000,000 shares of blank check preferred stock with such designation, rights and preferences as may be determined from time to time by our board of directors. Accordingly, our board of directors is empowered, without stockholder approval, to issue preferred stock with dividend, liquidation, conversion, voting or other rights which could adversely affect the voting power or other rights of the holders of common stock, although the underwriting agreement entered into in connection with our Initial Public Offering prohibits us, prior to a business combination, from issuing preferred stock which participates in any manner in the proceeds of the Trust Account, or which votes as a class with the common stock on a business combination. The preferred stock could be utilized as a method of discouraging, delaying or preventing a change in control of us.
 
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Warrants
 
We have 20,000,000 warrants issued and outstanding. Each warrant entitles the registered holder to purchase one share of our common stock at a price of $8.00 per share, subject to adjustment as discussed below, at any time commencing on the completion of a business combination. Following the effectiveness of the Redomiciliation Merger, our warrants will become excersisable. The warrants will expire on December 16, 2009 at 5:00 p.m., New York City time.
 
We may call the warrants for redemption
 
·  
in whole and not in part;
 
·  
at a price of $.01 per warrant at any time after the warrants become exercisable;
 
·  
upon not less than 30 days’ prior written notice of redemption to each warrant holder; and
 
·  
if, and only if, the reported last sale price of the common stock equals or exceeds $14.25 per share, for any 20 trading days within a 30 trading day period ending on the third business day prior to the notice of redemption to warrant holders.

We have established this criteria to provide warrant holders with a reasonable premium to the initial warrant exercise price as well as a reasonable cushion against a negative market reaction, if any, to our redemption call. If the foregoing conditions are satisfied and we call the warrants for redemption, each warrant holder shall then be entitled to exercise his or her warrant prior to the date scheduled for redemption, however, there can be no assurance that the price of the common stock will exceed the call trigger price or the warrant exercise price after the redemption call is made.
 
The warrants are issued in registered form under a warrant agreement between American Stock Transfer & Trust Company, as warrant agent, and us. You should review a copy of the warrant agreement, which has been filed as an exhibit to SEC reports filed by of Star Maritime, for a complete description of the terms and conditions applicable to the warrants.
 
The exercise price and number of shares of common stock issuable on exercise of the warrants may be adjusted in certain circumstances including in the event of a stock dividend, or our recapitalization, reorganization, merger or consolidation. However, the warrants will not be adjusted for issuances of common stock at a price below their exercise price.
 
The warrants may be exercised upon surrender of the warrant certificate on or prior to the expiration date at the offices of the warrant agent, with the exercise form on the reverse side of the warrant certificate completed and executed as indicated, accompanied by full payment of the exercise price, by certified check payable to us, for the number of warrants being exercised. The warrant holders do not have the rights or privileges of holders of common stock and any voting rights until they exercise their warrants and receive shares of common stock. After the issuance of shares of common stock upon exercise of the warrants, each holder will be entitled to one vote for each share held of record on all matters to be voted on by stockholders.
 
No warrants will be exercisable unless at the time of exercise a prospectus relating to common stock issuable upon exercise of the warrants is current and the common stock has been registered or qualified or deemed to be exempt under the securities laws of the state of residence of the holder of the warrants. Under the terms of the warrant agreement, we have agreed to meet these conditions and use our best efforts to maintain a current prospectus relating to common stock issuable upon exercise of the warrants until the expiration of the warrants. However, we cannot assure you that we will be able to do so. The warrants may be deprived of any value and the market for the warrants may be limited if the prospectus relating to the common stock issuable upon the exercise of the warrants is not current or if the common stock is not qualified or exempt from qualification in the jurisdictions in which the holders of the warrants reside.
 
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No fractional shares will be issued upon exercise of the warrants. If, upon exercise of the warrants, a holder would be entitled to receive a fractional interest in a share, we will, upon exercise, round up to the nearest whole number the number of shares of common stock to be issued to the warrant holder.
 
Dividends
 
We are a blank check company and therefore we have not paid any dividends on our common stock. It is the present intention of our board of directors to retain all earnings, if any, for use in our business operations and, accordingly, our board does not anticipate declaring any dividends in the foreseeable future, if the Redomiciliation Merger is not approved. Please read "Dividend Policy of Star Bulk."
 
Transfer agent and warrant agent
 
The transfer agent for our securities and warrant agent for our warrants is American Stock Transfer & Trust Company, 59 Maiden Lane, New York, New York 10038.
 
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DESCRIPTION OF STAR BULK SECURITIES
 
Star Maritime stockholders who receive shares of Star Bulk in the merger will become shareholders of Star Bulk. Star Bulk is a corporation organized under the laws of the Republic of the Marshall Islands and is subject to the provisions of Marshall Islands law. Given below is a summary of the material features of Star Bulk’s securities. This summary is not a complete discussion of the articles of incorporation and bylaws of Star Bulk that create the rights of its shareholders. You are urged to read carefully the articles of incorporation and bylaws of Star Bulk which have been filed as exhibits to Star Bulk’s registration statement on Form F-1/F-4. Please see “Where You Can Find Additional Information.”
 
General
 
Star Bulk is authorized to issue 100,000,000 shares of common stock, par value $.01, and 25,000,000 shares of preferred stock, par value $.01. As of the date of this joint proxy statement/prospectus, 500 shares of common stock are outstanding. No shares of preferred stock are currently outstanding.
 
Common Stock
 
Upon consummation of the Redomiciliation Merger, Star Bulk will have outstanding 41,564,569 shares of common stock, assuming that no stockholders vote against the Redomiciliation Merger and exercise redemption rights. In addition, Star Bulk will have 20,000,000 shares of common stock reserved for issuance upon the exercise of the warrants. Under certain circumstances, in the future, Star Bulk may issue up to an additional 1,606,962 shares of common stock to TMT. See "Acquisition Agreements—Purchase Price."
 
Each outstanding share of common stock entitles the holder to one vote on all matters submitted to a vote of shareholders. Subject to preferences that may be applicable to any outstanding shares of preferred stock, holders of shares of common stock are entitled to receive ratably all dividends, if any, declared by Star Bulk’s board of directors out of funds legally available for dividends. Holders of common stock do not have conversion, redemption or preemptive rights to subscribe to any of Star Bulk’s securities. All outstanding shares of common stock are, and the shares to be issued in the Redomiciliation Merger when issued will be, fully paid and nonassessable. The rights, preferences and privileges of holders of common stock are subject to the rights of the holders of any shares of preferred stock which Star Bulk may issue in the future.
 
There are no limitations on the right of non-residents of Republic of the Marshall Islands to hold or vote Star Bulk’s common shares.
 
Preferred Stock
 
As of the date of this joint proxy statement/prospectus, Star Bulk is authorized to issue up to 25,000,000 shares of blank check preferred stock. The rights, designations and preferences of the preferred stock can be determined, and the shares can be issued, upon the authority of Star Bulk’s board of directors, without any further vote or action by Star Bulk’s shareholders.
 
Warrants
 
Upon consummation of the Redomiciliation Merger, each outstanding Star Maritime warrant will be assumed by Star Bulk with the same terms and restrictions except that each will be exercisable for common stock of Star Bulk. For a description of the terms and restrictions, please read “Description of Star Maritime Securities—Warrants.”
 
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COMPARISON OF STAR MARITIME AND STAR BULK STOCKHOLDER RIGHTS 
 
In the Redomiciliation Merger, each share of Star Maritime common stock, par value $0.0001 per share, will be converted into the right to receive a share of Star Bulk common stock, par value $0.01 per share, and each warrant to purchase shares of Star Maritime will be assumed by Star Bulk and will contain the same terms and provisions except that each will be exercisable for shares of Star Bulk. Star Maritime is a Delaware corporation. The rights of its stockholders derive from Star Maritime’s certificate of incorporation and bylaws and from the Delaware General Corporation Law, or DGCL. Star Bulk is a Marshall Islands corporation. The rights of its shareholders derive from Star Bulk’s articles of incorporation and bylaws and from the BCA.
 
The following is a comparison of certain rights of Star Maritime stockholders and Star Bulk stockholders. Certain significant differences in the rights of Star Maritime stockholders and those of Star Bulk shareholders arise from differing provisions of Star Maritime’s and Star Bulk’s respective governing corporate instruments. The following summary does not purport to be a complete statement of the provisions affecting, and differences between, the rights of Star Maritime stockholders and those of Star Bulk stockholders. The identification of specific provisions or differences is not meant to indicate that other equally or more significant differences do not exist. This summary is qualified in its entirety by reference to the DGCL and the BCA and to the respective governing corporate instruments of Star Maritime and Star Bulk, to which stockholders are referred.
 
Objects and Purposes
 
Star Maritime. The purposes and powers of the Star Maritime are set forth in the third paragraph of Star Maritime’s Certificate of Incorporation. These purposes include any lawful act or activity for which corporations may be organized under the DGCL.
 
Star Bulk. The purposes and powers of the Star Bulk are set forth in paragraph B of Star Bulk’s Articles of Incorporation. These purposes include to engage in any lawful act or activity for which corporations may now or hereafter by organized under the BCA.
 
Authorized Capital Stock
 
Star Maritime. Star Maritime is authorized to issue 100,000,000 shares of common stock, par value $.0001, and 1,000,000 shares of preferred stock, par value $.0001. As of the date of joint proxy statement/prospectus, 29,026,924 shares of common stock are outstanding, held by nine recordholders. No shares of preferred stock are currently outstanding.
 
Star Bulk. Star Bulk is authorized to issue 100,000,000 shares of common stock, par value $.01, and 25,000,000 shares of preferred stock, par value $.01. As of the date of this joint proxy statement/prospectus, 500 shares of common stock are outstanding. No shares of preferred stock are currently outstanding.
 
Board of Directors
 
Star Maritime. Under the DGCL, the certificate of incorporation, an initial bylaw or a bylaw adopted by the stockholders of a Delaware corporation may create a classified board with staggered terms. A maximum of three classes of directors is allowed with members of one class elected each year for a maximum term of three years. There is no statutory requirement as to the number of directors in each class or that the number in each class be equal.
 
Star Maritime’s bylaws provide that its board of directors shall consist of not less than one nor more than nine members as designated from time to time by resolution of the board. Star Maritime’s board of directors currently has five members. Directors are elected by the affirmative vote of a majority of the shares represented at the annual meeting of stockholders. Star Maritime’s board of directors is divided into three classes with only one class of directors being elected in each year and each class serving a three-year term.
 
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Star Maritime’s certificate of incorporation and bylaws do not provide for cumulative voting for the election of directors. If any vacancy occurs in the membership of the board of directors, it may be filled by a vote of the majority of the remaining directors then in office although less than a quorum, or by a sole remaining director and each director so chosen shall hold office until the next annual meeting and until such director’s successor shall be duly elected and shall qualify, or until such director’s earlier resignation, removal from office, death or incapacity.
 
Star Bulk. The board of directors of Star Bulk is divided into three classes that are as nearly equal in number as possible. Class A Directors initially serve until the 2008 annual meeting of shareholders, Class B Directors initially serve until the 2009 annual meeting of shareholders, and Class C Directors initially serve until the 2010 annual meeting of shareholders. At each annual meeting of shareholders after the foregoing initial terms, the directors of each class are elected for terms of three years.
 
Pursuant to its bylaws, the board of directors of Star Bulk may, in the absence of an independent quorum, from time to time, in its discretion, fix amounts which shall be payable to members of the board of directors and to members of any, for attendance at the meetings of the Board or such committee and for services rendered to Star Bulk.
 
Special Meetings of Stockholders

Star Maritime. Star Maritime’s bylaws provide that a special meeting of stockholders may be called by a majority of the entire board of directors, or the Chief Executive Officer, and shall be called by the Secretary at the request in writing of stockholders holding not less than a majority of all of the outstanding stock of Star Maritime entitled to vote at such meeting.
 
Star Bulk. A special meeting of Star Bulk’s shareholders may be called at any time by the Board, jointly by the Co-Chairmen or the President. No other person is permitted to call a special meeting of Star Bulk’s shareholders.
 
Mergers, Share Exchanges and Sales of Assets
 
Star Maritime. The DGCL generally requires a majority vote of the outstanding shares of the corporation entitled to vote to effectuate a merger. The certificate of incorporation of a Delaware corporation may provide for a greater vote. In addition, the vote of stockholders of the surviving corporation on a plan of merger is not required under certain circumstances.
 
Star Maritime’s certificate of incorporation provides that, in connection with a business combination, such as a merger, each outstanding share of common stock shall be entitled to one vote per share of common stock. A majority vote of Star Maritime’s outstanding common stock is required for the approval of a business combination.
 
Star Bulk. The BCA provides that a merger in which the Marshall Islands corporation is not the surviving corporation requires the affirmative vote of the holders of at least a majority of the outstanding shares of capital stock of the Marshall Islands corporation entitled to vote thereon. The BCA further provides that a sale, lease, exchange or other disposition of all or substantially all the assets of the Marshall Islands corporation, if not made in the usual or regular course of the business actually conducted by Star Bulk, requires the affirmative vote of the holders of at least 66⅔% of the outstanding shares of capital stock of the Marshall Islands corporation entitled to vote thereon, unless any class of shares is entitled to vote thereon as a class, in which event such authorization shall require the affirmative vote of the holders of a majority of the shares of each class of shares entitled to vote as a class thereon and of the total shares entitled to vote thereon.
 
Anti-takeover Provisions
 
Star Maritime. Several provisions of Star Maritime’s certificate of incorporation and bylaws may have anti-takeover effects. These provisions are intended to avoid costly takeover battles, lessen Star Maritime’s vulnerability to a hostile change of control and enhance the ability of the board of directors to maximize stockholder value in connection with any unsolicited offer to acquire Star Maritime. However, these anti-takeover provisions, which are summarized below, could also discourage, delay or prevent (1) the merger or acquisition of Star Maritime by means of a tender offer, a proxy contest or otherwise, that a stockholder may consider in its best interest and (2) the removal of incumbent officers and directors.
 
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Star Maritime’s certificate of incorporation authorizes the issuance of 1,000,000 shares of blank check preferred stock with such designation, rights and preferences as may be determined from time to time by our board of directors. Star Maritime’s board of directors may issue shares of preferred stock on terms calculated to discourage, delay or prevent a change of control of its company or the removal of its management.
 
Star Maritime’s certificate of incorporation provides for a board of directors serving staggered, three-year terms. Star Maritime’s board of directors currently has five members. The classified board provision could discourage a third party from making a tender offer for Star Maritime’s shares or attempting to obtain control of the company. It could also delay stockholders who do not agree with the policies of the board of directors from removing a majority of the board of directors for up to three years.
 
Star Maritime’s certificate of incorporation and bylaws prohibit cumulative voting in the election of directors. These provisions may discourage, delay or prevent the removal of incumbent officers and directors.
 
Star Maritime’s bylaws provide that a special meeting of stockholders may be called by a majority of the entire board of directors, or the Chief Executive Officer, and shall be called by the Secretary at the request in writing of stockholders holding not less than a majority of all of the outstanding stock of Star Maritime entitled to vote at such meeting. These provisions could prevent shareholders representing less than a majority of the outstanding stock of Star Maritime from forcing the board of directors to call a special meeting which could discourage, delay or prevent a change of control of the company or the removal of management.
 
The BCA does not contain specific provisions regarding "business combinations" between corporations organized under the laws of the Republic of Marshall Islands and "interested shareholders." However, the DGCL contains provisions which prohibit corporations from engaging in a business combination with an interested shareholder for a period of three years after the date of the transaction in which the person became an interested shareholder, unless: (1) prior to the date of the transaction that resulted in a shareholder becoming an interested shareholder, the board of directors approved either the business combination or the transaction that resulted in the shareholder becoming an interested shareholder; (2) upon consummation of the transaction that resulted in the shareholder becoming an interested shareholder, the interested shareholder owned at least 85% of the voting stock of the corporation outstanding at the time the transaction commenced; or (3) at or subsequent to the date of the transaction that resulted in the shareholder becoming an interested shareholder, the business combination is approved by the board of directors and authorized at an annual or special meeting of shareholders by the affirmative vote of at least 662/3% of the outstanding voting stock that is not owned by the interested shareholder.
 
For purposes of these provisions, a "business combination" includes mergers, consolidations, exchanges, asset sales, leases and other transactions resulting in a financial benefit to the interested shareholder and an "interested shareholder" is any person or entity that beneficially owns 20% or more of our outstanding voting stock and any person or entity affiliated with or controlling or controlled by that person or entity.
 
Star Bulk. Several provisions of Star Bulk’s articles of incorporation and bylaws may have anti-takeover effects. These provisions are intended to avoid costly takeover battles, lessen Star Bulk’s vulnerability to a hostile change of control and enhance the ability of the board of directors to maximize stockholder value in connection with any unsolicited offer to acquire Star Bulk. However, these anti-takeover provisions, which are summarized below, could also discourage, delay or prevent (1) the merger or acquisition of Star Bulk by means of a tender offer, a proxy contest or otherwise, that a stockholder may consider in its best interest and (2) the removal of incumbent officers and directors.
 
Star Bulk’s articles of incorporation authorizes the issuance of 25,000,000 shares of blank check preferred stock with such designation, rights and preferences as may be determined from time to time by our board of directors. Star Bulk’s board of directors may issue shares of preferred stock on terms calculated to discourage, delay or prevent a change of control of the company or the removal of management.
 
Star Bulk’s articles of incorporation provides for a board of directors serving staggered, three-year terms. The classified board provision could discourage a third party from making a tender offer for Star Bulk’s shares or attempting to obtain control of the company. It could also delay stockholders who do not agree with the policies of the board of directors from removing a majority of the board of directors for up to three years.
 
Star Bulk’s articles of incorporation and bylaws prohibit cumulative voting in the election of directors. These provisions may discourage, delay or prevent the removal of incumbent officers and directors.
 
A special meeting of Star Bulk’s shareholders may be called at any time by the board, jointly by the Co-Chairmen or the President. No other person is permitted to call a special meeting of Star Bulk’s shareholders. These provisions prevent shareholders of Star Bulk from forcing the board of directors to call a special meeting which could discourage, delay or prevent a change of control of the company or the removal of management.
 
Although the BCA does not contain specific provisions regarding "business combinations" between corporations organized under the laws of the Republic of Marshall Islands and "interested shareholders," Star Bulk has included these provisions in its articles of incorporation. Star Bulk’s articles of incorporation contain provisions which prohibit Star Bulk from engaging in a business combination with an interested shareholder for a period of three years after the date of the transaction in which the person became an interested shareholder, unless:
 
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·
prior to the date of the transaction that resulted in the shareholder becoming an interested shareholder, Star Bulk’s board of directors approved either the business combination or the transaction that resulted in the shareholder becoming an interested shareholder;
 
·
upon consummation of the transaction that resulted in the shareholder becoming an interested shareholder, the interested shareholder owned at least 85% of the voting stock of the corporation outstanding at the time the transaction commenced;
 
·
at or subsequent to the date of the transaction that resulted in the shareholder becoming an interested shareholder, the business combination is approved by the board of directors and authorized at an annual or special meeting of shareholders by the affirmative vote of at least 70% of the outstanding voting stock that is not owned by the interested shareholder; or
 
·
the shareholder became an interested shareholder prior to the consummation of the Initial Public Offering.

For purposes of these provisions, a "business combination" includes mergers, consolidations, exchanges, asset sales, leases and other transactions resulting in a financial benefit to the interested shareholder and an "interested shareholder" is any person or entity that beneficially owns 20% or more of Star Bulk’s outstanding voting stock and any person or entity affiliated with or controlling or controlled by that person or entity. Further, the term “business combination”, when used in reference to Star Bulk and any interested “shareholder” does not include any transactions for which definitive agreements were entered into prior to the date the articles were filed with the Republic of the Marshall Islands.
 
Star Bulk’s articles of incorporation prohibit cumulative voting in the election of directors. Star Bulk’s bylaws require parties other than the board of directors to give advance written notice of nominations for the election of directors. Star Bulk’s articles of incorporation and bylaws also provide that Star Bulk’s directors may be removed only for cause and only upon the affirmative vote of the holders of 70% or more of the outstanding shares of its capital stock entitled to vote generally in the election of directors. These provisions may discourage, delay or prevent the removal of incumbent officers and directors.
 
Star Bulk’s bylaws provide that shareholders seeking to nominate candidates for election as directors or to bring business before an annual meeting of shareholders must provide timely notice of their proposal in writing to the corporate secretary. Generally, to be timely, a shareholder's notice must be received at Star Bulk’s principal executive offices not less than 120 days nor more than 180 days prior to the anniversary date of the immediately preceding annual meeting of shareholders. Star Bulk’s bylaws also specify requirements as to the form and content of a shareholder's notice. These provisions may impede a shareholder's ability to bring matters before an annual meeting of shareholders or make nominations for directors at an annual meeting of shareholders.
 
Supermajority Provisions
 
The BCA generally provides that the affirmative vote of a majority of the outstanding shares entitled to vote at a meeting of shareholders is required to amend a corporation's articles of incorporation, unless the articles of incorporation requires a greater percentage. Star Bulk’s articles of incorporation provide that the following provisions in the articles of incorporation may be amended only by an affirmative vote of 70% or more of the outstanding shares of Star Bulk’s capital stock entitled to vote generally in the election of directors:
 
·
the board of directors shall be divided into three classes;
 
·
directors may only be removed for cause and by an affirmative vote of the holders of 70% or more of the outstanding shares of our capital stock entitled to vote generally in the election of directors;
 
·
the directors are authorized to make, alter, amend, change or repeal our bylaws by vote not less than 662/3% of the entire board of directors;
 
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·
the shareholders are authorized to alter, amend or repeal our bylaws by an affirmative vote of 70% or more of the outstanding shares of our capital stock entitled to vote generally in the election of directors; and
 
·
the company may not engage in any business combination with any interested shareholder for a period of three years following the transaction in which the person became an interested shareholder.
 
Transfer Agent
 
The registrar and transfer agent for Star Bulk common stock and warrant agent for warrants exercisable for shares of Star Bulk is American Stock Transfer & Trust Company, 59 Maiden Lane, New York, New York 10038.
 
Listing
 
Star Maritime's common stock and warrants currently trade on the American Stock Exchange under the symbols "SEA" and "SEA.WS", respectively. Star Bulk expects to apply for listing of its common shares and warrants on the Nasdaq Global Market under the symbols “SBLK” and “SBLKW”, respectively.
 
Dividends
 
Star Maritime. The DGCL allows the board of directors of a Delaware corporation to authorize a corporation to declare and pay dividends and other distributions to its stockholders, subject to any restrictions contained in the certificate of incorporation, either out of surplus, or, if there is no surplus, out of net profits for the current or preceding fiscal year in which the dividend is declared. However, a distribution out of net profits is not permitted if a corporation’s capital is less than the amount of capital represented by the issued and outstanding stock of all classes having a preference upon the distribution of assets, until the deficiency has been repaired.
 
Star Bulk. Marshall Islands law generally prohibits the payment of dividends if the company is insolvent or would be rendered insolvent upon the payment of such dividends and dividends may be declared and paid out of surplus only; but in the case there is no surplus, dividends may be declared or paid out of net profits for the fiscal year in which the dividend is declared and for the preceding fiscal year. Declaration and payment of any dividend is subject to the discretion of Star Bulk’s board of directors. The timing and amount of dividend payments will be dependent upon Star Bulk’s earnings, financial condition, cash requirement and availability, restrictions in Star Bulk’s loan agreements, the provisions of Marshall Islands law affecting the payment of distributions to shareholders and other factors. The payment of dividends is not guaranteed or assured, and may be discontinued at any time at the discretion of Star Bulk’s board of directors. Because Star Bulk is a holding company with no material assets other than the stock of its subsidiaries, Star Bulk’s ability to pay dividends will depend on the earnings and cash flow of its subsidiaries and their ability to pay dividends to Star Bulk. If there is a substantial decline in the drybulk charter market, Star Bulk’s earnings would be negatively affected, thus limiting its ability to pay dividends.
 
Indemnification of Directors and Officers and Limitation of Liability
 
Star Maritime. The DGCL classifies indemnification as either mandatory indemnification or permissive indemnification. A Delaware corporation is required to indemnify an agent against expenses actually and reasonably incurred in an action that the agent successfully defended on the merits or otherwise.
 
Under the DGCL, in non-derivative third-party proceedings, a corporation may indemnify any agent who is or is threatened to be made a party to the proceeding against expenses, judgments and settlements actually and reasonably incurred in connection with a civil proceeding, provided such person acted in good faith and in a manner the person reasonably believed to be in the best interests of and not opposed to the corporation and, in the case of a criminal proceeding, had no reasonable cause to believe the conduct was unlawful. Further, in actions brought on behalf of the corporation, any agent who is or is threatened to be made a party can be indemnified for expenses actually and reasonably incurred in connection with the defense or settlement of the action if the person acted in good faith and in a manner reasonably believed to be in and not opposed to the best interests of the corporation; however, indemnification is not permitted with respect to any claims in which such person has been adjudged liable to the corporation unless the appropriate court determines such person is entitled to indemnity for expenses.
 
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Unless ordered by a court, the corporation must authorize permissive indemnification for existing directors or officers in each case by: (i) a majority vote of the disinterested directors even though less than a quorum; (ii) a committee of disinterested directors, designated by a majority vote of such directors even though less than a quorum; (iii) independent legal counsel in a written opinion; or (iv) the stockholders. The statutory rights regarding indemnification are non-exclusive; consequently, a corporation can indemnify a litigant in circumstances not defined by the DGCL under any bylaw, agreement or otherwise.
 
Under the DGCL, a Delaware corporation’s certificate of incorporation may eliminate director liability for all acts except: (i) an act or omission not in good faith or that involves intentional misconduct or knowing violation of the law; (ii) a breach of the duty of loyalty; (iii) improper personal benefits; or (iv) certain unlawful distributions.
 
Star Maritime’s certificate of incorporation and bylaws provide that any director, officer, employee or agent shall be indemnified to the fullest extent authorized or permissible under Delaware law, provided that such person acted in good faith and in a manner which he believed to be in, or not opposed to, the best interests of Star Maritime, and with respect to any criminal action or proceeding, had no reasonable cause to believe his conduct was unlawful. In order to be indemnified, such indemnification must be ordered by a court or it must be decided by a majority vote of a quorum of the whole Star Maritime Board of Directors that such person met the applicable standard of conduct set forth in this paragraph.
 
Star Maritime’s certificate of incorporation provides that a director shall not be personally liable to the corporation or its stock holders for monetary damages for breach of fiduciary duty as a director; provided however, that nothing in the certificate of incorporation shall eliminate or limit the liability of any director (i) for breach of the director’s duty of loyalty to the corporation or its stockholders, (ii) for acts or omissions not in good faith or which involve intentional misconduct or a knowing violation of law, (iii) under Section 174 of the DGCL, or (iv) for any transaction from which the director derived an improper personal benefit.
 
Star Bulk. Star Bulk’s Bylaws provide that any person who is or was a director or officer of Star Bulk, or is or was serving at the request of Star Bulk as a director or officer of another corporation, partnership, joint venture, trust or other enterprises shall be entitled to be indemnified by Star Bulk upon the same terms, under the same conditions, and to the same extent as authorized by Section 60 of the BCA, if he acted in good faith and in a manner he reasonably believed to be in or not opposed to the best interests of Star Bulk, and, with respect to any criminal action or proceeding, had no reasonable cause to believe his conduct was unlawful.
 
Insofar as indemnification for liabilities arising under the Securities Act of 1933 may be permitted to directors, officers and controlling persons of the registrant pursuant to the foregoing provisions, or otherwise, Star Maritime and Star Bulk have been advised that in the opinion of the Securities and Exchange Commission such indemnification is against public policy as expressed in the Act and is, therefore, unenforceable.
 
Amendments to Certificate of Incorporation and Bylaws
 
Under the DGCL, under the following circumstances, a class of stockholders has the right to vote separately on an amendment to a Delaware corporation’s certificate of incorporation even if the certificate does not include such a right: (i) increasing or decreasing the aggregate number of authorized shares of the class (the right to a class vote under this circumstance may be eliminated by a provision in the certificate); (ii) increasing or decreasing the par value of the shares of the class; or (iii) changing the powers, preferences, or special rights of the shares of the class in a way that would affect them adversely. Approval by outstanding shares entitled to vote is also required. Further, a separate series vote is not required unless a series is adversely affected by an amendment in a manner different from other shares in the same class. Under the DGCL, a corporation’s certificate of incorporation also may require, for action by the board or by the holders of any class or series of voting securities, the vote of a greater number or proportion than is required by the DGCL, and the provision of the certificate of incorporation requiring such greater vote may also provide that such provision cannot be altered, amended or repealed except by such greater vote.
 
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The BCA provides that notwithstanding any provisions in the articles of incorporation, the holders of the outstanding shares of a class shall be entitled to vote as a class upon a proposed amendment, and in addition to the authorization of an amendment by a vote of the holders of a majority of all outstanding shares entitled to vote thereon, the amendment shall be authorized by a vote of the holders of a majority of all outstanding shares of the class if the amendment would increase or decrease the aggregate number of authorized shares of such class, or alter or change the powers, preferences or special rights of the shares of such class so as to affect them adversely. If any proposed amendment would alter or change the powers, preferences, or special rights of one or more series of any class so as to affect them adversely, but shall not affect the entire class, then only the shares of the series so affected by the amendment shall be considered a separate class for purposes of this section.
 
Star Maritime. Star Maritime’s certificate of incorporation may be amended if a majority of the outstanding stock entitled to vote thereon, and a majority of the outstanding stock of each class entitled to vote thereon as a class has been voted in favor of the amendment. Star Maritime’s bylaws may be amended or repealed, and new bylaws may be adopted, either (i) by the affirmative vote of the holders of record of a majority of the outstanding stock of Star Maritime, or (ii) by the affirmative vote of a majority of the whole board of directors of Star Maritime.
 
Star Bulk. Generally, the BCA provides that amendment of Star Bulk’s articles of incorporation may be authorized by a vote of the holders of a majority of all outstanding shares entitled to vote thereon at a meeting of shareholders or by written consent of all shareholders entitled to vote thereon. Star Bulk’s bylaws may be amended by the affirmative vote of 66 2/3% of entire board of directors, or by the affirmative vote of the holders of 70% or more of the outstanding shares of stock entitled to vote thereon (considered for this purpose as one class).
 
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COMPARISON OF MARSHALL ISLANDS CORPORATE LAW TO DELAWARE CORPORATE LAW 
 
Star Bulk’s corporate affairs are governed by Star Bulk's amended and restated articles of incorporation, amended and restated bylaws and the Business Corporation Act, or BCA. The provisions of the BCA resemble provisions of the corporation laws of a number of states in the United States. For example, the BCA allows the adoption of various anti-takeover measures such as shareholder rights plans. While the BCA also provides that it is to be interpreted according to the laws of the State of Delaware and other states with substantially similar legislative provisions, there have been few, if any, court cases interpreting the BCA in the Marshall Islands and we can not predict whether Marshall Islands courts would reach the same conclusions as United States courts. Thus, you may have more difficulty in protecting your interests in the face of actions by the management, directors or controlling shareholders than would shareholders of a corporation incorporated in a United States jurisdiction which has developed a substantial body of case law. The following table provides a comparison between the statutory provisions of the BCA and the DGCL relating to shareholders’ rights.
 
 Marshall Islands
 
Delaware
 
Shareholder Meetings
 
·
May be held at a time and place as designated in the bylaws
·
May be held at such time or place as designated in the certificate of incorporation or the bylaws, or if not so designated, as determined by the board of directors
       
·
May be held within or outside the Marshall Islands
·
May be held within or outside Delaware
       
·
Notice:
·
Notice:
           
 
·
Whenever shareholders are required to take action at a meeting, written notice shall state the place, date and hour of the meeting and indicate that it is being issued by or at the direction of the person calling the meeting
 
·
Whenever stockholders are required or permitted to take any action at a meeting, a written notice of the meeting shall be given which shall state the place, if any, date and hour of the meeting, and the means of remote communication, if any, by which stockholders may be deemed to be present and vote at such meeting
           
 
·
A copy of the notice of any meeting shall be given personally or sent by mail not less than 15 nor more than 60 days before the meeting
 
·
Written notice shall be given not less than ten nor more than 60 days before the meeting
 
Shareholder’s Voting Rights
 
·
Any action required to be taken by meeting of shareholders may be taken without meeting if consent is in writing and is signed by all the shareholders entitled to vote
·
Stockholders may act by written consent to elect directors
       
·
Any person authorized to vote may authorize another person or persons to act for him by proxy
·
Any person authorized to vote may authorize another person or persons to act for him by proxy
       
·
Unless otherwise provided in the articles of incorporation, a majority of shares entitled to vote constitutes a quorum. In no event shall a quorum consist of fewer than one-third of the shares entitled to vote at a meeting
·
For non-stock corporations, certificate of incorporation or bylaws may specify the number of members necessary to constitute a quorum. In the absence of such specifications, one-third of the members shall constitute a quorum
       
·
The articles of incorporation may provide for cumulative voting
·
For stock corporations, certificate of incorporation or bylaws may specify the number of members necessary to constitute a quorum but in no event shall a quorum consist of less than one-third of the shares entitled to vote at the meeting. In the absence of such specifications, a majority of shares entitled to vote at the meeting shall constitute a quorum
 
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  Marshall Islands
 
 Delaware
     
·
The certificate of incorporation may provide for cumulative voting
 
Directors
 
·
Board must consist of at least one member
·
Board must consist of at least one member
       
·
Number of members can be changed by an amendment to the bylaws, by the shareholders, or by action of the board
·
Number of board members shall be fixed by the bylaws, unless the certificate of incorporation fixes the number of directors, in which case a change in the number shall be made only by amendment of the certificate
       
·
If the board is authorized to change the number of directors, it can only do so by an absolute majority (majority of the entire board)
     
 
Dissenter’s Rights of Appraisal
 
·
Shareholders have a right to dissent from a merger or sale of all or substantially all assets not made in the usual course of business, and receive payment of the fair value of their shares
·
Appraisal rights shall be available for the shares of any class or series of stock of a corporation in a merger or consolidation
         
·
A holder of any adversely affected shares who does not vote on or consent in writing to an amendment to the articles of incorporation has the right to dissent and to receive payment for such shares if the amendment:
     
         
 
·
Alters or abolishes any preferential right of any outstanding shares having preference; or
     
           
 
·
Creates, alters, or abolishes any provision or right in respect to the redemption of any outstanding shares; or
     
           
 
·
Alters or abolishes any preemptive right of such holder to acquire shares or other securities; or
     
           
 
·
Excludes or limits the right of such holder to vote on any matter, except as such right may be limited by the voting rights given to new shares then being authorized of any existing or new class
     
 
Shareholder’s Derivative Actions
 
·
An action may be brought in the right of a corporation to procure a judgment in its favor, by a holder of shares or of voting trust certificates or of a beneficial interest in such shares or certificates. It shall be made to appear that the plaintiff is such a holder at the time of bringing the action and that he was such a holder at the time of the transaction of which he complains, or that his shares or his interest therein devolved upon him by operation of law
·
In any derivative suit instituted by a stockholder of a corporation, it shall be averred in the complaint that the plaintiff was a stockholder of the corporation at the time of the transaction of which he complains or that such stockholder’s stock thereafter devolved upon such stockholder by operation of law
         
·
Complaint shall set forth with particularity the efforts of the plaintiff to secure the initiation of such action by the board or the reasons for not making such effort
     
         
·
Such action shall not be discontinued, compromised or settled, without the approval of the High Court of the Republic
     
 
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 Marshall Islands
 
 Delaware
·
Attorney’s fees may be awarded if the action is successful
     
         
·
Corporation may require a plaintiff bringing a derivative suit to give security for reasonable expenses if the plaintiff owns less than 5% of any class of stock and the shares have a value of less than $50,000
     
 
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TAX CONSIDERATIONS
 
Certain Material U.S. Federal Income Tax Consequences
 
The following is a discussion of certain material U.S. federal income tax consequences to a Star Maritime stockholder of the exchange of Star Maritime shares for shares of Star Bulk common stock in the Redomiciliation Merger as well asthe material tax consequences of owning Star Bulk common stock after the Redomiciliation Merger. This discussion is based on current provisions of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (the “Code”), Treasury regulations promulgated under the Code, Internal Revenue Service (“IRS”) rulings and pronouncements, and judicial decisions now in effect, all of which are subject to change at any time by legislative, judicial or administrative action. Any such changes may be applied retroactively.
 
No party has sought or will seek any rulings from the IRS with respect to the U.S. federal income tax consequences discussed below. Star Maritime has obtained the opinion of its counsel Seward & Kissel LLP (“Seward & Kissel”), that the Redomiciliation Merger should be treated as a non-taxable reorganization for U.S. federal income tax purposes. Neither the discussion below, nor Seward & Kissel’s opinion, is in any way binding on the IRS or the courts or in any way constitutes an assurance that the U.S. federal income tax consequences discussed herein will be accepted by the IRS or the courts.
 
The U.S. federal income tax consequences to a holder of Star Maritime shares from the Redomiciliation Merger may vary depending upon such stockholder’s particular situation or status. This discussion is limited to holders of Star Maritime shares who hold their Star Maritime shares and will hold their Star Bulk common stock as capital assets, and it does not address aspects of U.S. federal income taxation that may be relevant to holders of either Star Maritime or Star Bulk shares who are subject to special treatment under U.S. federal income tax laws, including but not limited to: non-U.S. holders (as defined below); dealers in securities; banks and other financial institutions; insurance companies; tax-exempt organizations, plans or accounts; persons holding their Star Maritime shares as part of a “hedge,”“straddle” or other risk reduction transaction; persons holding their Star Maritime shares through partnerships, trusts or other entities; U.S. persons whose functional currency is not the U.S. dollar; and controlled foreign corporations or passive foreign investment companies, as those terms are defined in the Code. In addition, this discussion does not consider the effects of any applicable foreign, state, local or other tax laws, or estate or gift tax considerations, or the alternative minimum tax.
 
For purposes of this discussion, a “U.S. Holder” is a beneficial owner of Star Maritime shares that is, for U.S. federal income tax purposes: a citizen or resident of the United States; a corporation created or organized in or under the laws of the United States or any state thereof (including the District of Columbia); an estate the income of which is subject to United States federal income tax regardless of its source; or a trust, if a court within the United States can exercise primary supervision over its administration, and one or more U.S. persons have the authority to control all of the substantial decisions of that trust (or the trust was in existence on August 20, 1996, was treated as a U.S. trust on August 19, 1996 and validly elected to continue to be treated as a U.S. trust).
 
For purposes of this discussion, a “Non-U.S. Holder” is, for U.S. federal income tax purposes, an individual, trust, or corporation that is a beneficial owner of Star Maritime shares, who is not a U.S. Holder.
 
United States Federal Income Tax Considerations

Tax Consequences of the Merger

The Redomiciliation Merger should be treated as a nontaxable reorganization for U.S. federal income tax purposes under Code Section 
368(a). Accordingly, a U.S. Holder of Star Maritime shares or warrants should not recognize gain or loss upon the exchange of his shares of Star Maritime common stock solely for shares of Star Bulk common stock pursuant to the Redomiciliation Merger. A shareholder who redeems his shares for cash will recognize gain or loss in an amount equal to the difference between the amount of cash received for such shares and his adjusted tax loss in such shares.
 Any gain recognized by a U.S. holder generally should be capital gain. Long-term capital gains are subject to preferential rates of taxation for certain non-corporate taxpayers. A U.S. Holder’s aggregate tax basis in the Star Bulk shares and warrants received in the transaction should be the same as his aggregate tax basis in the Star Maritime shares and warrants surrendered in the transaction. The holding period of Star Bulk shares received in the Redomiciliation Merger should include the holding period of the Star Maritime shares surrendered in the Redomiciliation Merger.
 
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Section 7874(b) of the Code (“Section 7874(b)”) provides that a corporation organized outside the United States which acquires substantially all of the assets of a corporation organized in the United States will be treated as a U.S. domestic corporation for U.S. federal income tax purposes if shareholders of the U.S. corporation whose assets are being acquired own at least 80 percent of the non-U.S. acquiring corporation after the acquisition. If Section 7874(b) were to apply to Star Maritime and the Redomiciliation Merger, then Star Bulk, as the surviving entity of the Redomiciliation Merger, would be subject to U.S. federal income tax as a U.S. domestic corporation on its worldwide income after the Redomiciliation Merger. In addition, as a domestic corporation, any dividends paid by Star Bulk to a non-U.S. shareholder would be subject to a U.S. federal income tax withholding at the rate of 30 percent or such lower rate as provided by applicable treaty.
 
The Redomiciliation Merger has been structured so that upon completion of the Redomiciliation Merger, the shareholders of Star Maritime will own less than 80 percent of Star Bulk. Therefore, Star Maritime and Star Bulk each intend to take the position on their respective U.S. federal income tax return, that Star Bulk is not subject to Section 7874(b) after the Redomiciliation Merger and therefore should not be subject to U.S. federal income tax as a U.S. domestic corporation on its worldwide income after the Redomiciliation Merger. However, Star Maritime has not sought a ruling from the IRS on this point. Therefore, there is no assurance that the IRS would not seek to assert that Star Bulk is subject to U.S. federal income tax on its worldwide income after the Redomiciliation Merger, although Star Maritime believes that such an assertion should not be successful.
 
Even if Section 7874(b) does not apply to a transaction, Section 7874(a) of the Code (“Section 7874(a)”) provides that where a corporation organized outside the United States acquires substantially all of the assets of a corporation organized in the United States, the corporation whose assets are being acquired will be subject to U.S. federal income tax on its “inversion gain” if shareholders of the U.S. corporation whose assets are being acquired own at least 60 percent of the non-U.S. acquiring corporation after the acquisition. “Inversion gain” includes any gain from the transfer of the properties by the corporation organized in the United States to the corporation organized outside the United States as well as certain licensing income.
 
Section 7874(a) will apply to Star Maritime as a result of the Redomiciliation Merger. However, since the only asset being transferred by Star Maritime pursuant to the Redomiciliation Merger is cash, Star Maritime does not expect to realize any “inversion gain” or suffer any other adverse U.S. federal income tax consequences as a result of the application of Section 7874(a) to the Redomiciliation Merger.
 
U.S. Federal Income Taxation of Star Bulk

Taxation of Operating Income: In General

Unless exempt from U.S. federal income taxation under the rules discussed below, a foreign corporation is subject to United States federal income taxation in respect of any income that is derived from the use of vessels, from the hiring or leasing of vessels for use on a time, voyage or bareboat charter basis, from the participation in a pool, partnership, strategic alliance, joint operating agreement, code sharing arrangements or other joint venture it directly or indirectly owns or participates in that generates such income, or from the performance of services directly related to those uses, which we refer to as “shipping income,” to the extent that the shipping income is derived from sources within the United States. For these purposes, 50% of shipping income that is attributable to transportation that begins or ends, but that does not both begin and end, in the United States constitutes income from sources within the United States, which we refer to as “U.S.-source shipping income.”
 
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Shipping income attributable to transportation that both begins and ends in the United States is considered to be 100% from sources within the United States. Star Bulk is not permitted by law to engage in transportation that produces income which is considered to be 100% from sources within the United States.
 
Shipping income attributable to transportation exclusively between non-U.S. ports will be considered to be 100% derived from sources outside the United States. Shipping income derived from sources outside the United States will not be subject to any United States federal income tax. In the absence of exemption from tax under Section 883, Star Bulk’s gross U.S.-source shipping income would be subject to a 4% tax imposed without allowance for deductions as described below.
 
Exemption of Operating Income from U.S. Federal Income Taxation

Under Section 883 of the Code, Star Bulk will be exempt from U.S. federal income taxation on our U.S.-source shipping income if:

1.  
Star Bulk is organized in a foreign country (our “country of organization”) that grants an “equivalent exemption” to corporations organized in the United States; or
 
2.  
either:
 
·  
more than 50% of the value of Star Bulk’s stock is owned, directly or indirectly, by individuals who are “residents” of Star Bulk’s country of organization or of another foreign country that grants an “equivalent exemption” to corporations organized in the United States, which Star Bulk refers to as the “50% Ownership Test,” or
 
·  
Star Bulk’s stock is “primarily and regularly traded on an established securities market” in Star Bulk’s country of organization, in another country that grants an “equivalent exemption” to U.S. corporations, or in the United States, which Star Bulk refers to as the “Publicly-Traded Test.”
 
The Republic of the Marshall Islands, the jurisdiction where Star Bulk and its ship-owning subsidiaries are incorporated, grants an “equivalent exemption” to U.S. corporations. Therefore, Star Bulk will be exempt from U.S. federal income taxation with respect to its U.S.-source shipping income if it satisfies either the 50% Ownership Test or the Publicly-Traded Test. For taxable years after the Redomiciliation Merger, it may be difficult for Star Bulk to satisfy the 50% Ownership Test due to the widely-held ownership of its stock. Star Bulk’s ability to satisfy the Publicly-Traded Test is discussed below.
 
The regulations provide, in pertinent part, that stock of a foreign corporation will be considered to be “primarily traded” on an established securities market if the number of shares of each class of stock that are traded during any taxable year on all established securities markets in that country exceeds the number of shares in each such class that are traded during that year on established securities markets in any other single country. After the Redomiciliation Merger, Star Bulk anticipates that its common stock will be “primarily traded” on the Nasdaq Global Market.
 
Under the regulations, Star Bulk’s stock will be considered to be “regularly traded” on an established securities market if one or more classes of its stock representing more than 50% of its outstanding shares, by total combined voting power of all classes of stock entitled to vote and total value, is listed on the market which Star Bulk refers to as the listing threshold. Since Star Bulk’s common stock, which will represent more than 50% of its outstanding shares by vote and value, will be listed on the Nasdaq Global Market, Star Bulk will satisfy the listing requirement.
 
It is further required that with respect to each class of stock relied upon to meet the listing threshold (i) such class of the stock is traded on the market, other than in minimal quantities, on at least 60 days during the taxable year or 1¤6 of the days in a short taxable year; and (ii) the aggregate number of shares of such class of stock traded on such market is at least 10% of the average number of shares of such class of stock outstanding during such year or as appropriately adjusted in the case of a short taxable year. Star Bulk believes it will satisfy the trading frequency and trading volume tests. Even if this were not the case, the regulations provide that the trading frequency and trading volume tests will be deemed satisfied by a class of stock if, as Star Bulk expects to be the case with its common stock, such class of stock is traded on an established market in the United States and such class of stock is regularly quoted by dealers making a market in such stock.
 
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Notwithstanding the foregoing, the regulations provide, in pertinent part, Star Bulk’s common stock will not be considered to be “regularly traded” on an established securities market for any taxable year in which 50% or more of the outstanding shares of its common stock are owned, actually or constructively under specified stock attribution rules, on more than half the days during the taxable year by persons who each own 5% or more of its common stock, which Star Bulk refers to as the “5 Percent Override Rule.”
 
For purposes of being able to determine the persons who own 5% or more of Star Bulk common stock, or “5% Stockholders,” the regulations permit Star Bulk to rely on Schedule 13G and Schedule 13D filings with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, or the “SEC,” to identify persons who have a 5% or more beneficial interest in our common stock. The regulations further provide that an investment company which is registered under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended, will not be treated as a 5% Stockholder for such purposes.
 
After the Redomiciliation Merger, Star Bulk does not anticipate that its 5% Stockholders will own 50% or more of its common stock. However, if Star Bulk’s 5% Stockholders did own more than 50% of Star Bulk’s common stock, then Star Bulk would be subject to the 5% Override Rule unless it were able to establish that among the closely-held group of 5% Stockholders, there are sufficient 5% Stockholders that are qualified stockholders for purposes of Section 883 to preclude non-qualified 5% Stockholders in the closely-held group from owning 50% or more of each class of our stock for more than half the number of days during the taxable year. In order to establish this, sufficient 5% Stockholders that are qualified stockholders would have to comply with certain documentation and certification requirements designed to substantiate their identity as qualified stockholders. These requirements are onerous and there is no guarantee that Star Bulk would be able to satisfy them.
 
Taxation in Absence of Exemption

To the extent the benefits of Section 883 are unavailable, Star Bulk’s U.S. source shipping income, to the extent not considered to be “effectively connected” with the conduct of a U.S. trade or business, as described below, would be subject to a 4% tax imposed by Section 887 of the Code on a gross basis, without the benefit of deductions. Since under the sourcing rules described above, no more than 50% of Star Bulk’s shipping income would be treated as being derived from U.S. sources, the maximum effective rate of U.S. federal income tax on Star Bulk’s shipping income would never exceed 2% under the 4% gross basis tax regime.
 
To the extent the benefits of the Section 883 exemption are unavailable and Star Bulk’s U.S.-source shipping income is considered to be “effectively connected” with the conduct of a U.S. trade or business, as described below, any such “effectively connected” U.S.-source shipping income, net of applicable deductions, would be subject to the U.S. federal corporate income tax currently imposed at rates of up to 35%. In addition, Star Bulk may be subject to the 30% “branch profits” taxes on earnings effectively connected with the conduct of such trade or business, as determined after allowance for certain adjustments, and on certain interest paid or deemed paid attributable to the conduct of its U.S. trade or business.
 
Star Bulk’s U.S.-source shipping income would be considered “effectively connected” with the conduct of a U.S. trade or business only if:
 
·
Star Bulk has, or is considered to have, a fixed place of business in the United States involved in the earning of shipping income; and
 
·
substantially all of Star Bulk’s U.S.-source shipping income is attributable to regularly scheduled transportation, such as the operation of a vessel that follows a published schedule with repeated sailings at regular intervals between the same points for voyages that begin or end in the United States.
 
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Star Bulk does not intend to have, or permit circumstances that would result in having any vessel operating to the United States on a regularly scheduled basis. Based on the foregoing and on the expected mode of Star Bulk’s shipping operations and other activities, Star Bulk believes that none of its U.S.-source shipping income will be “effectively connected” with the conduct of a U.S. trade or business.
 
United States Taxation of Gain on Sale of Vessels

Regardless of whether Star Bulk will qualify for exemption under Section 883, Star Bulk will not be subject to U.S. federal income taxation with respect to gain realized on a sale of a vessel, provided the sale is considered to occur outside of the United States under U.S. federal income tax principles. In general, a sale of a vessel will be considered to occur outside of the United States for this purpose if title to the vessel, and risk of loss with respect to the vessel, pass to the buyer outside of the United States. It is expected that any sale of a vessel by Star Bulk will be considered to occur outside of the United States.
 
United States Federal Income Taxation of U.S. Holders
 
Distributions

Subject to the discussion of passive foreign investment companies below, any distributions made by Star Bulk with respect to Star Bulk’s common stock to a U.S. Holder will generally constitute dividends, which may be taxable as ordinary income or “qualified dividend income” as described in more detail below, to the extent of Star Bulk’s current or accumulated earnings and profits, as determined under United States federal income tax principles. Distributions in excess of Star Bulk’s earnings and profits will be treated first as a nontaxable return of capital to the extent of the U.S. Holder’s tax basis in his common stock on a dollar-for-dollar basis and thereafter as capital gain. Because Star Bulk is not a U.S. corporation, U.S. Holders that are corporations will not be entitled to claim a dividends received deduction with respect to any distributions they receive from Star Bulk. Dividends paid with respect to Star Bulk’s common stock will generally be treated as “passive category income” or, in the case of certain types of U.S. Holders, as “general category income” for purposes of computing allowable foreign tax credits for U.S. foreign tax credit purposes.
 
Dividends paid on Star Bulk common stock to a U.S. Holder who is an individual, trust or estate (a “U.S. Individual Holder”) will generally be treated as “qualified dividend income” that is taxable to such U.S. Individual Holders at preferential tax rates (through 2010) provided that (1) the common stock is readily tradable on an established securities market in the United States (such as the Nasdaq Global Market, on which Star Bulk common stock will be listed); (2) Star Bulk is not a passive foreign investment company for the taxable year during which the dividend is paid or the immediately preceding taxable year (which Star Bulk does not believe it is, has been or will be); and (3) the U.S. Individual Holder has owned the common stock for more than 60 days in the 121-day period beginning 60 days before the date on which the common stock becomes ex-dividend. There is no assurance that any dividends paid on Star Bulk common stock will be eligible for these preferential rates in the hands of a U.S. Individual Holder.
 
Special rules may apply to any “extraordinary dividend” generally, a dividend in an amount which is equal to or in excess of ten percent of a stockholder’s adjusted basis (or fair market value in certain circumstances) in a share of common stock paid by Star Bulk. If Star Bulk pays an “extraordinary dividend” on its common stock that is treated as “qualified dividend income,” then any loss derived by a U.S. Individual Holder from the sale or exchange of such common stock will be treated as long-term capital loss to the extent of such dividend.
 
Sale, Exchange or other Disposition of Common Stock

Assuming Star Bulk does not constitute a passive foreign investment company for any taxable year, a U.S. Holder generally will recognize taxable gain or loss upon a sale, exchange or other disposition of Star Bulk common stock in an amount equal to the difference between the amount realized by the U.S. Holder from such sale, exchange or other disposition and the U.S. Holder’s tax basis in such stock. Such gain or loss will be treated as long-term capital gain or loss if the U.S. Holder’s holding period is greater than one year at the time of the sale, exchange or other disposition. Such capital gain or loss will generally be treated as U.S.-source income or loss, as applicable, for U.S. foreign tax credit purposes. A U.S. Holder’s ability to deduct capital losses is subject to certain limitations.
 
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Passive Foreign Investment Company Status and Significant Tax Consequences

Special U.S. federal income tax rules apply to a U.S. Holder that holds stock in a foreign corporation classified as a passive foreign investment company for United States federal income tax purposes. In general, Star Bulk will be treated as a passive foreign investment company with respect to a U.S. Holder if, for any taxable year in which such holder held Star Bulk common stock, either:
 
·
at least 75% of Star Bulk’s gross income for such taxable year consists of passive income (e.g., dividends, interest, capital gains and rents derived other than in the active conduct of a rental business); or
 
·
at least 50% of the average value of the assets held by the corporation during such taxable year produce, or are held for the production of, passive income.
 
For purposes of determining whether Star Bulk is a passive foreign investment company, Star Bulk will be treated as earning and owning its proportionate share of the income and assets, respectively, of any of its subsidiary corporations in which it owns at least 25% of the value of the subsidiary’s stock. Income earned, or deemed earned, by Star Bulk in connection with the performance of services would not constitute passive income. By contrast, rental income would generally constitute “passive income” unless Star Bulk was treated under specific rules as deriving its rental income in the active conduct of a trade or business.
 
Based on our current operations and future projections, Star Bulk does not believe that it is, nor doesStar Bulk expect to become, a passive foreign investment company with respect to any taxable year. Although there is no legal authority directly on point, and Star Bulk is not relying upon an opinion of counsel on this issue, Star Bulk’s belief is based principally on the position that, for purposes of determining whether Star Bulk is a passive foreign investment company, the gross income Star Bulk derives or is deemed to derive from the time chartering and voyage chartering activities of its wholly-owned subsidiaries should constitute services income, rather than rental income. Correspondingly, such income should not constitute passive income, and the assets that Star Bulk or its wholly-owned subsidiaries own and operate in connection with the production of such income, in particular, the vessels, should not constitute passive assets for purposes of determining whether Star Bulk is a passive foreign investment company. Star Bulk believes there is substantial legal authority supporting its position consisting of case law and IRS pronouncements concerning the characterization of income derived from time charters and voyage charters as services income for other tax purposes. However, in the absence of any legal authority specifically relating to the statutory provisions governing passive foreign investment companies, the IRS or a court could disagree with Star Bulk’s position. In addition, although Star Bulk intends to conduct its affairs in a manner to avoid being classified as a passive foreign investment company with respect to any taxable year, Star Bulk cannot assure you that the nature of its operations will not change in the future.
 
As discussed more fully below, if Star Bulk were to be treated as a passive foreign investment company for any taxable year, a U.S. Holder would be subject to different taxation rules depending on whether the U.S. Holder makes an election to treat us as a “Qualified Electing Fund,” which election Star Bulk refers to as a “QEF election.” As an alternative to making a QEF election, a U.S. Holder should be able to make a “mark-to-market” election with respect to Star Bulk’s common stock, as discussed below.
 
Taxation of U.S. Holders Making a Timely QEF Election

If a U.S. Holder makes a timely QEF election, which U.S. Holder we refer to as an “Electing Holder,” the Electing Holder must report each year for U.S. federal income tax purposes his pro rata share of Star Bulk ordinary earnings and Star Bulk’s net capital gain, if any, for Star Bulk’s taxable year that ends with or within the taxable year of the Electing Holder, regardless of whether or not distributions were received from Star Bulk by the Electing Holder. The Electing Holder’s adjusted tax basis in the common stock will be increased to reflect taxed but undistributed earnings and profits. Distributions of earnings and profits that had been previously taxed will result in a corresponding reduction in the adjusted tax basis in the common stock and will not be taxed again once distributed. An Electing Holder would generally recognize capital gain or loss on the sale, exchange or other disposition of Star Bulk common stock. A U.S. Holder would make a QEF election with respect to any year that Star Bulk is a passive foreign investment company by filing IRS Form 8621 with his U.S. federal income tax return. If Star Bulk is aware that it was to be treated as a passive foreign investment company for any taxable year, Star Bulk would provide each U.S. Holder with all necessary information in order to make the QEF election described above.
 
123

 
Taxation of U.S. Holders Making a “Mark-to-Market” Election
 
Alternatively, if Star Bulk were to be treated as a passive foreign investment company for any taxable year and, as Star Bulk anticipates, its stock is treated as “marketable stock,” a U.S. Holder would be allowed to make a “mark-to-market” election with respect to Star Bulk common stock, provided the U.S. Holder completes and files IRS Form 8621 in accordance with the relevant instructions and related Treasury Regulations. If that election is made, the U.S. Holder generally would include as ordinary income in each taxable year the excess, if any, of the fair market value of the common stock at the end of the taxable year over such holder’s adjusted tax basis in the common stock. The U.S. Holder would also be permitted an ordinary loss in respect of the excess, if any, of the U.S. Holder’s adjusted tax basis in the common stock over its fair market value at the end of the taxable year, but only to the extent of the net amount previously included in income as a result of the mark-to-market election. A U.S. Holder’s tax basis in his common stock would be adjusted to reflect any such income or loss amount. Gain realized on the sale, exchange or other disposition of Star Bulk common stock would be treated as ordinary income, and any loss realized on the sale, exchange or other disposition of the common stock would be treated as ordinary loss to the extent that such loss does not exceed the net mark-to-market gains previously included by the U.S. Holder.

Taxation of U.S. Holders Not Making a Timely QEF or Mark-to-Market Election

Finally, if Star Bulk were to be treated as a passive foreign investment company for any taxable year, a U.S. Holder who does not make either a QEF election or a “mark-to-market” election for that year, whom we refer to as a “Non-Electing Holder,” would be subject to special rules with respect to (1) any excess distribution (i.e., the portion of any distributions received by the Non-Electing Holder on Star Bulk common stock in a taxable year in excess of 125 percent of the average annual distributions received by the Non-Electing Holder in the three preceding taxable years, or, if shorter, the Non-Electing Holder’s holding period for the common stock), and (2) any gain realized on the sale, exchange or other disposition of our common stock. Under these special rules:
 
·
the excess distribution or gain would be allocated ratably over the Non-Electing Holders’ aggregate holding period for the common stock;
 
·
the amount allocated to the current taxable year and any taxable year before we became a passive foreign investment company would be taxed as ordinary income; and
 
·
the amount allocated to each of the other taxable years would be subject to tax at the highest rate of tax in effect for the applicable class of taxpayer for that year, and an interest charge for the deemed deferral benefit would be imposed with respect to the resulting tax attributable to each such other taxable year.
 
These penalties would not apply to a pension or profit sharing trust or other tax-exempt organization that did not borrow funds or otherwise utilize leverage in connection with its acquisition of Star Bulk common stock. If a Non-Electing Holder who is an individual dies while owning Star Bulk common stock, such holder’s successor generally would not receive a step-up in tax basis with respect to such stock.
 
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Backup Withholding and Information Reporting
 
In general, dividend payments, or other taxable distributions, made within the United States to you will be subject to information reporting requirements. Such payments will also be subject to backup withholding tax if you are a non-corporate U.S. Holder and you:
 
·
fail to provide an accurate taxpayer identification number;
 
·
are notified by the IRS that you have failed to report all interest or dividends required to be shown on your federal income tax returns; or
 
·
in certain circumstances, fail to comply with applicable certification requirements.
 
Backup withholding tax is not an additional tax. Rather, you generally may obtain a refund of any amounts withheld under backup withholding rules that exceed your income tax liability by filing a refund claim with the IRS.
 
Marshall Islands Tax Considerations
 
In the opinion of Seward & Kissel LLP, the following are the material Marshall Islands tax consequences of our activities to Star Bulk and holders of Star Bulk common stock. Star Bulk is incorporated in the Marshall Islands. Under current Marshall Islands law, Star Bulk is not subject to tax on income or capital gains, and no Marshall Islands withholding tax will be imposed upon payments of dividends by Star Bulk to its stockholders.
 
125


SHARES ELIGIBLE FOR FUTURE SALE
 
As of the date of this joint proxy statement/prospectus, Star Maritime has 29,026,924 shares of common stock outstanding. In respect of the stock consideration portion of the aggregate purchase price of the vessels in the initial fleet, concurrently with the Redomiciliation Merger, Star Bulk will issue 12,537,645 shares of common stock to TMT. Accordingly, immediately following the Redomiciliation Merger, Star Bulk will have 41,564,569 shares of common stock outstanding. Of these shares, 31,905,145 shares are freely tradable without restriction or further registration under the Securities Act, except for any shares held by an affiliate of Star Bulk within the meaning of Rule 144 under the Securities Act. All of the remaining 10,159,424 shares are restricted securities under Rule 144, in that they were issued in private transactions not involving a public offering. All of those shares have been placed in escrow and will not be transferable until December 15, 2008, subject to certain limited exceptions, such as transfers to family members and trusts for estate planning purposes and upon death, while in each case remaining subject to the escrow agreement, and will only be released prior to that date if Star Maritime is forced to liquidate, in which case the shares would be destroyed.
 
The shares of Star Bulk issued to TMT in respect of the stock consideration are subject to a 180-day lock up period.
 
Rule 144

In general, under Rule 144 as currently in effect, a person who has beneficially owned restricted shares of our common stock for at least one year would be entitled to sell within any three-month period a number of shares that does not exceed the greater of either of the following:
 
· 1% of the number of shares of common stock then outstanding, which after the Redomiciliation Merger will equal 415,645 shares; and
 
· the average weekly trading volume of the common stock during the four calendar weeks preceding the filing of a notice on Form 144 with respect to the sale.

Sales under Rule 144 are also limited by manner of sale provisions and notice requirements and to the availability of current public information about Star Bulk.
 
Rule 144(k)

Under Rule 144(k), a person who is not deemed to have been one of our affiliates at the time of or at any time during the three months preceding a sale, and who has beneficially owned the restricted shares proposed to be sold for at least two years, including the holding period of any prior owner other than an affiliate, is entitled to sell their shares without complying with the manner of sale, public information, volume limitation or notice provisions of Rule 144.
 
SEC Position on Rule 144 Sales

The Securities and Exchange Commission has taken the position that promoters or affiliates of a blank check company and their transferees, both before and after a business combination, would act as an “underwriter” under the Securities Act when reselling the securities of a blank check company. Accordingly, Rule 144 may not be available for the resale of those securities despite technical compliance with the requirements of Rule 144, in which event the resale transactions would need to be made through a registered offering.
 
Registration Rights

Holders of a majority of the aggregate of 9,024,924 shares of common stock issued to officers and directors of Star Maritime prior to our Initial Public Offering are entitled to make up to two demands that Star Maritime registers these shares. The holders of the majority of these shares may elect to exercise these registration rights at any time after the date on which these shares of common stock are released from escrow, which, except in limited circumstances, is not before December 15, 2008. In addition, these stockholders have certain piggyback registration rights on registration statements filed subsequent to the date on which these shares of common stock are released from escrow. Star Maritime, and if the Redomiciliation Merger is approved, Star Bulk, as the successor to Star Maritime, will bear the expenses incurred in connection with the filing of any such registration statements.
 
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In connection with Star Maritime’s initial public offering, Star Maritime issued an aggregate of 1,132,500 units to certain of its officers and directors. Star Maritime has granted the holders of such units demand and piggyback registration rights with respect to the 1,132,500 shares, the 1,132,500 warrants and the 1,132,500 shares underlying the warrants at any time commencing on the date Star Maritime publicly announces that it has entered into a letter of intent with respect to a proposed a business combination. The demand registration may be exercised by the holders of a majority of such units. Star Maritime announced its entry into the definitive agreements with respect to the acquisition of the vessels on January 17, 2007. In addition, Star Maritime has granted the holders of such units certain registration rights commencing at the time Star Maritime consummates its initial business combination with a target business. Star Maritime, and if the Redomiciliation Merger is approved, Star Bulk, as the successor to Star Maritime, will bear the expenses incurred in connection with the filing of any such registration statements.
 
Under the Master Agreement, Star Bulk has agreed, with some limited exceptions, to include the shares of Star Bulk’s common stock comprising the stock consideration portion of the aggregate purchase price of the vessels in the initial fleet and the Additional Stock, which we collectively refer to as the Registrable Securities, in Star Bulk’s registration statement of which this joint proxy statement/prospectus is a part. In addition, Star Bulk has granted TMT (on behalf of itself or its affiliates that hold Registrable Securities) the right, under certain circumstances and subject to certain restrictions, including lock-up and market stand-off restrictions, to require Star Bulk to register the Registrable Securities under the Securities Act. Under the Master Agreement, TMT also has the right to require Star Bulk to make available shelf registration statements permitting sales of shares into the market from time to time over an extended period. In addition, TMT will have the ability to exercise certain piggyback registration rights, 180 days following the effective date of the Redomiciliation Merger. All expenses relating to such registration will be borne by Star Bulk. Following the Redomiciliation Merger, TMT and/or its affiliates will own 12,537,645 shares of Star Bulk’s common stock entitled to these registration rights and TMT and/or its affiliates may own up to additional 1,606,962 shares of Star Bulk’s common stock entitled to these registration rights in the event that Star Bulk achieves certain revenue targets.
 
EXPERTS
 
The balance sheet of Star Bulk Carriers Corp. as of February 5, 2007 included in this joint proxy statement/prospectus have been audited by Deloitte Hadjipavlou, Sofianos & Cambanis S.A., an independent registered public accounting firm as stated in their report appearing herein and is included upon reliance of the report of such firm given upon their authority as experts in accounting and auditing.

The financial statements of Star Maritime Acquisition Corp. included in this joint proxy statement/prospectus have been audited by Goldstein Golub Kessler LLP, independent registered public accounting firm, to the extent and for the period set forth in their report appearing elsewhere in this joint proxy statement/prospectus (which contains an explanatory paragraph describing conditions that raise substantial doubt about Star Maritime’s ability to continue as a going concern as discusses in Note 1 to the financial statements). The financial statements and the report of Goldstein Golub Kessler LLP are included in reliance upon their report given upon their authority as experts in auditing and accounting.
 
LEGAL MATTERS 
 
Certain matters relating to United States and Marshall Islands law, including matters relating to Marshall Islands and U.S. federal income tax consequences of the Redomiciliation Merger will be passed upon for us by Seward & Kissel LLP, New York, New York.
 
STOCKHOLDER PROPOSALS AND OTHER MATTERS 
 
Management of Star Maritime knows of no other matters which may be brought before the Star Maritime special meeting. If any matter other than the proposed merger or related matters should properly come before the special meeting, however, the persons named in the enclosed proxies will vote proxies in accordance with their judgment on those matters.
 
127

 
Under Delaware law, only business stated in the notice of special meeting may be transacted at the special meeting.
 
INDUSTRY AND MARKET DATA 
 
The industry-related statistical and graphical information we use in this prospectus has been compiled by Drewry Shipping Consultants Ltd., or Drewry, from its database. Some of the industry information in this prospectus is based on estimates or subjective judgments in circumstances where data for actual market transactions either does not exist or is not publicly available, and consequently, Drewry cannot assure us that it reflects actual industry and market experience. Drewry compiles and publishes data for the benefit of its customers. Its methodologies for collecting data, and therefore the data collected, may differ from those of other sources, and its data does not reflect all or even necessarily a comprehensive set of the actual transactions occurring in the market. The published information of other maritime data collection experts may differ from the data presented in this prospectus
 
WHERE YOU CAN FIND ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
 
Star Bulk has filed a registration statement on Form F-1/F-4 to register the offering and sale of Star Bulk shares to be issued in exchange for shares of Star Maritime pursuant to the Redomiciliation Merger and to TMT pursuant to the Master Agreement. This joint proxy statement/prospectus is a part of that registration statement and constitutes a prospectus of Star Bulk in addition to a proxy statement of Star Maritime for the Star Maritime special meeting. As allowed by SEC rules, this joint proxy statement/prospectus does not contain all of the information that you can find in the registration statement or the exhibits to the registration statement. You should refer to the registration statement and its exhibits for additional information that is not contained in this joint proxy statement/prospectus.
 
Star Maritime is subject to the informational requirements of the Exchange Act, and is required to file reports, any proxy statements and other information with the SEC. Any reports, statements or other information that Star Maritime files with the SEC, including this joint proxy statement/prospectus may be inspected and copied at the public reference facilities maintained by the SEC at 100 F Street, N.E., Room 1580, Washington, D.C. 20549. Copies of this material can also be obtained upon written request from the Public Reference Section of the SEC at its principal office in Washington, D.C. 20549, at prescribed rates or from the SEC’s website on the Internet at http://www.sec.gov, free of charge. Please call the SEC at 1-800-SEC-0330 for further information on public reference rooms
 
Neither Star Maritime nor Star Bulk has authorized anyone to provide you with information that differs from that contained in this joint proxy statement/prospectus. You should not assume that the information contained in this joint proxy statement/prospectus is accurate as on any date other than the date of the joint proxy statement/prospectus, and neither the mailing of this joint proxy statement/prospectus to Star Maritime stockholders nor the issuance of shares of Star Bulk in the merger shall create any implication to the contrary.
 
This joint proxy statement/prospectus does not constitute an offer to sell, or a solicitation of an offer to buy, any securities, or the solicitation of a proxy, in any jurisdiction to or from any person to whom it is not lawful to make any such offer or solicitation in such jurisdiction.
 
ENFORCEABILITY OF CIVIL LIABILITIES 
 
Star Bulk is a Marshall Islands company and its executive offices are located outside of the U.S. in Athens, Greece. A majority of Star Bulk’s directors, officers and experts named in this joint proxy/statement prospectus reside outside the U.S. In addition, a substantial portion of Star Bulk assets and the assets of its directors, officers and experts are located outside of the U.S. As a result, you may have difficulty serving legal process within the U.S. upon us or any of these persons. You may also have difficulty enforcing, both in and outside the U.S., judgments you may obtain in U.S. courts against Star Bulk or these persons in any action, including actions based upon the civil liability provisions of U.S. federal or state securities laws.
 
128

 
Furthermore, there is substantial doubt that the courts of the Marshall Islands or Greece would enter judgments in original actions brought in those courts predicated on U.S. federal or state securities laws.
 
129


GLOSSARY OF SHIPPING TERMS
 
The following are definitions of certain terms that are commonly used in the shipping industry and in this joint proxy statement/prospectus.
 
Annual survey. The inspection of a vessel pursuant to international conventions, by a classification society surveyor, on behalf of the flag state, that takes place every year.
 
Bareboat charter. A charter of a vessel under which the shipowner is usually paid a fixed amount of charterhire for a certain period of time during which the charterer is responsible for the vessel operating expenses and voyage expenses of the vessel and for the management of the vessel, including crewing. A bareboat charter is also known as a “demise charter” or a “time charter by demise.”
 
Bunkers. Heavy fuel and diesel oil used to power a vessel’s engines.
 
Capesize. A vessel with capacity of more than 100,000 dwt.
 
Charter. The hire of a vessel for a specified period of time or to carry a cargo from a loading port to a discharging port. The contract for a charter is commonly called a charterparty.
 
Charterer. The party that hires a vessel for a period of time or for a voyage.
 
Charterhire. A sum of money paid to the shipowner by a charterer for the use of a vessel. Charterhire paid under a voyage charter is also known as “freight.”
 
Classification society. An independent society that certifies that a vessel has been built and maintained according to the society’s rules for that type of vessel and complies with the applicable rules and regulations of the country of the vessel’s registry and the international conventions of which that country is a member. A vessel that receives its certification is referred to as being “in-class.”
 
Contract of affreightment. A contract of affreightment (COA) relates to the carriage of multiple cargoes over the same route and enables the coa holder to nominate different ships to perform the individual sailings. Essentially it constitutes a number of voyage charters to carry a specified amount of cargo during the term of the COA, which usually spans a number of years. All of the ship’s operating, voyage and capital costs are borne by the ship owner.
 
Drybulk carrier. A type of ship designed to carry bulk cargo, such as coal, iron ore and grain, etc. that is loaded in bulk and not in bags, packages or containers.
 
Drydocking. The removal of a vessel from the water for inspection and repair of those parts of a vessel which are below the water line. During drydockings, which are required to be carried out periodically, certain mandatory classification society inspections are carried out and relevant certifications are issued. Drydockings are generally required once every 30 months or twice every five years, one of which must be a Special Survey.
 
Dwt. Deadweight ton, which is a unit of a vessel’s capacity for cargo, fuel, oil, stores and crew measured in metric tons of 1,000 kilograms.
 
Freight. A sum of money paid to the shipowner by the charterer under a voyage charter, usually calculated either per ton loaded or as a lump sum amount.
 
Gross ton. A unit of measurement for the total enclosed space within a vessel equal to 100 cubic feet or 2.831 cubic meters.
 
Handymax. A vessel with a carrying capacity of between 30,000 and 60,000 dwt.
 
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Handysize. A vessel with capacity of up to 30,000 dwt.
 
Hull. Shell or body of a ship.
 
IMO. International Maritime Organization, a United Nations agency that issues international standards for shipping.
 
Intermediate survey. The inspection of a vessel by a classification society surveyor that takes place 24 to 36 months after each Special Survey.
 
Newbuilding. A new vessel under construction or just completed.
 
Off-hire. The period in which a vessel is unable to perform the services for which it is immediately required under a time charter. Off-hire periods can include days spent on repairs, drydocking and surveys, whether or not scheduled.
 
OPA. The United States Oil Pollution Act of 1990.
 
Panamax. A vessel with a carrying capacity of between 60,000 and 100,000 dwt.
 
Period time charter. A time charter or a contract of affreightment.
 
Protection and indemnity insurance. Insurance obtained through a mutual association formed by shipowners to provide liability indemnification protection from various liabilities to which they are exposed in the course of their business, and which spreads the liability costs of each member by requiring contribution by all members in the event of a loss.
 
Scrapping. The sale of a vessel as scrap metal.
 
Single-hull. A hull construction design in which a vessel has only one hull.
 
Special survey. The inspection of a vessel by a classification society surveyor that takes place every five years, as part of the recertification of the vessel by a classification society.
 
Spot charter. A charter under which a shipowner is paid freight on the basis of moving cargo from a loading port to a discharging port. The shipowner is responsible for paying both vessel operating expenses and voyage expenses. Typically, the charterer is responsible for any delay at the loading or discharging ports.
 
Spot market. The market for immediate chartering of a vessel, usually for single voyages.
 
Time charter. A charter under which the shipowner is paid charterhire on a per-day basis for a specified period of time. Typically, the shipowner is responsible for providing the crew and paying vessel operating expenses while the charterer is responsible for paying the voyage expenses and additional voyage insurance.
 
Vessel operating expenses. The costs of operating a vessel, primarily consisting of crew wages and associated costs, insurance premiums, management fees, lubricants and spare parts, and repair and maintenance costs. Vessel operating expenses exclude fuel costs, port expenses, agents’ fees, canal dues and extra war risk insurance, as well as commissions, which are included in “voyage expenses.”
 
Voyage expenses. Expenses incurred due to a vessel’s traveling from a loading port to a discharging port, such as fuel (bunkers) costs, port expenses, agents’ fees, canal dues and extra war risk insurance, as well as commissions.
 
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INDEX TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
 
 
Page
   
STAR BULK CARRIERS CORP.  
   
REPORT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM
F-2
   
BALANCE SHEET
F-3
   
STAR MARITIME ACQUISITION CORP.
 
   
REPORT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM
F-6
   
BALANCE SHEET
F-7
   
STATEMENT OF INCOME
F-8
   
STATEMENT OF STOCKHOLDER'S EQUITY
F-9
   
STATEMENT OF CASH FLOWS
F- 10
   

F-1


REPORT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM

To the Shareholders of Star Bulk Carriers Corp.


We have audited the accompanying balance sheet of Star Bulk Carriers Corp, (the “Company”), as of February 5, 2007. This balance sheet is the responsibility of the Companies’ management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on this balance sheet based on our audit.

We conducted our audit in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States). Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement. An audit includes consideration of internal control over financial reporting as a basis for designing audit procedures that are appropriate in the circumstances, but not for the purpose of expressing an opinion on the effectiveness of the Company's internal control over financial reporting. Accordingly, we express no such opinion. An audit includes examining, on a test basis, evidence supporting the amounts and disclosures in the balance sheet. An audit also includes assessing the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall balance sheet presentation. We believe that our audit provides a reasonable basis for our opinion.

In our opinion, the balance sheet referred to above presents fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of Star Bulk Carriers Corp. as of February 5, 2007, in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America.

 
Deloitte.,
Hadjipavlou, Sofianos & Cambanis S.A.
Athens, Greece
February 9, 2007
 
F-2

 
Star Bulk Carriers Corp.
 
Balance Sheet
as of February 5, 2007
 

   
As of February 5, 2007
 
Assets
     
Current assets
     
Cash and cash equivalents
   
1,000
 
Total current assets
   
1,000
 
         
Total assets
   
1,000
 
         
Liabilities and Shareholders' Equity
       
         
Commitments and contingencies (Note 4)
   
-
 
         
Shareholders’ Equity
       
Common stock (100,000,000 shares authorized, par value $0.01 per share, 500 issued and outstanding)
   
5
 
Preferred stock (25,000,000 shares authorized, par value $0.01 per share, none issued and outstanding)
       
Paid-in capital
   
995
 
Total shareholders' equity
   
1,000
 
Total liabilities and shareholders’ equity
   
1,000
 
 
The accompanying notes are an integral part of this balance sheet.
 
F-3


Star Bulk Carriers Corp.
Notes to the Balance Sheet
(In U.S. dollars)

 
1. General

Star Bulk Carriers Corp. (the “Star Bulk” or “Company”) was formed on December 13, 2006, under the laws of the Marshall Islands and has its principal offices located in Athens, Greece. Star Bulk is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Star Maritime Acquisition Corp. (“Star Maritime”), an independent commercial shipping company that will provide global transportation solutions in the dry bulk shipping sector through its vessel-owning subsidiaries. Star Bulk is a holding company that will own its vessels through separate wholly-owned subsidiaries.
 
The following vessels were contracted to be acquired by Star Bulk on January 12, 2007, subject to the required approvals of Star Maritime stockholders and other conditions:
 
Vessel name
 
To be renamed
 
Vessel type
 
Year built
 
DWT
A Duckling
 
Star Alpha
 
Capesize
 
1992
 
175,075
B Duckling
 
Star Beta
 
Capesize
 
1993
 
174,691
C Duckling
 
Star Gamma
 
Supramax
 
2002
 
53,098
F Duckling
 
Star Delta
 
Supramax
 
2000
 
52,434
G Duckling
 
Star Epsilon
 
Supramax
 
2001
 
52,402
I Duckling
 
Star Zita
 
Supramax
 
2003
 
52,994
J Duckling
 
Star Theta
 
Supramax
 
2003
 
52,425
Mommy Duckling
 
Star Iota
 
Panamax
 
1983
 
78,585
 
Those vessels are expected to be delivered following the Redomiciliation Merger. Pursuant to the Redomiciliation Merger, Star Maritime will merge with and into the Company with the Company as the surviving corporation. The Company will subsequently acquire a fleet of eight drybulk carriers from certain wholly-owned subsidiaries of TMT, pursuant to separate definitive agreements, for an aggregate purchase price of $345,237,520, consisting of $224,500,000 million in cash and 12,537,645 shares of common stock. We refer to the Redomiciliation Merger and the subsequent acquisition by Company of the vessels in its initial fleet as the Redomiciliation Merger. As a result of the Redomiciliation Merger: (i) each outstanding share of Star Maritime common stock, par value $0.0001 per share, will be converted into the right to receive one share of the Company’s common stock, par value $0.01 per share; and (ii) each outstanding warrant of Star Maritime will be assumed by the Company with the same terms and restrictions, except that each will be exercisable for common stock of the Company.
 
2. Significant Accounting Policies
 
(a)  
Basis of financial statements: The financial statements have been prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America (“U.S. GAAP”).

(b)  
Use of Estimates: The preparation of financial statements in conformity with U.S. GAAP requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements.

(c)  
Cash and Cash Equivalents: The Company considers highly liquid investments such as time deposits and certificates of deposit with original maturity of three months or less to be cash and cash equivalents.
 
F-4

 
3. Share Capital
 
The share capital consisted of 500 authorized and issued shares with no par value. On February 8, 2007 the Company filed its Amended and Restated Articles of Incorporation with the Marshall Islands, which increased its total share capital to 125,000,000 registered shares comprised of 100,000,000 registered common shares with a par value of one cent (US $0.01) per share and 25,000,000 registered preferred shares with a par value of one cent (US $0.01 per share). On February 8, 2007, $1,000 has been paid by the Company.
 
4.  Commitments and Contingencies

Currently, management is not aware of any claim or contingent liability, which should be disclosed or for which a provision should be established in the accompanying financial statements.
 
5.  Subsequent Events

(a).  On February 7, 2007, Star Bulk formed the following wholly-owned subsidiaries registered in the Marshall Islands. The share capital of each of the subsidiaries consists of 500 authorized and issued shares without par value.

Star Alpha Inc.
Star Beta Inc.
Star Gamma Inc.
Star Epsilon Inc.
Star Iota Inc.
Star Theta Inc.
Star Zita Inc.
Star Bulk Management Inc.

(b) (unaudited). Star Gamma Inc., a wholly-owned subsidiary of Star Bulk, entered into time a charter agreement dated, February 23, 2007, with TMT for the C Duckling (to be renamed the Star Gamma). The charter rate for the Star Gamma will be $28,500 per day for a term of one year. Star Iota Inc., a wholly-owned subsidiary of Star Bulk, entered into a time charter agreement, dated February 26, 2007, with TMT for the Mommy Duckling (to be renamed the Star Iota). The charter rate for the Star Iota will be $18,000 per day for a term of one year. Each charter will commence as of the date the vessel is delivered to the purchaser. Pursuant to the Supplemental Agreement, these time charters will be null and void if the Redomiciliation Merger is not consummated.
 
F-5

 
REPORT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM
 
To the Board of Directors
Star Maritime Acquisition Corp.
 
We have audited the accompanying balance sheet of Star Maritime Acquisition Corp. (a corporation in the development stage) as of December 31, 2006 and 2005 and the related statements of income, stockholders’ equity and cash flows for the year ended December 31, 2006 and for the periods from May 13, 2005 (inception) to December 31, 2005 and May 13, 2005 (inception) to December 31, 2006. These financial statements are the responsibility of the company’s management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on these financial statements based on our audits.
 
We conducted our audits in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States). Those standards require that we plan and perform the audits to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement. The audits include examining, on a test basis, evidence supporting the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements. The audits also include assessing the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall financial statement presentation. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion.
 
In our opinion, the financial statements referred to above present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of Star Maritime Acquisition Corp. as of December 31, 2006 and 2005 and the results of its operations and its cash flows for the year ended December 31, 2006 and for the periods from May 13, 2005 (inception) to December 31, 2005 and May 13, 2005 (inception) to December 31, 2006 in conformity with United States generally accepted accounting principles.

We have also audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States), the effectiveness of the Company’s internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2006, based on criteria established in Internal Control—Integrated Framework issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO), and our report dated March 10, 2007 expressed an unqualified opinion on management's assessment of the effectiveness of the Company's internal control over financial reporting and an unqualified opinion on the effectiveness of the Company's internal control over financial reporting.
 
The accompanying financial statements have been prepared assuming that Star Maritime Acquisition Corp. will continue as a going concern. As discussed in Note 1 to the financial statements, the Company may face a mandatory liquidation by December 21, 2007 if a business combination is not consummated, unless certain extension criteria are met, which raises substantial doubt its ability to continue as a going concern. The financial statements do not include any adjustments that might result from the outcome of this uncertainty.
 

GOLDSTEIN GOLUB KESSLER LLP
 
New York, New York
March 10, 2007
F-6

 
(a development stage company)
 
Balance Sheet
 
 
 
December 31, 2006
 
December 31, 2005
 
ASSETS
         
Current Assets
         
Cash
 
$
2,118,141
 
$
593,281
 
Investments in trust account
   
192,915,257
   
188,858,542
 
Prepaid expenses and other current assets
   
149,647
   
118,766
 
 
         
Total Current Assets
   
195,183,045
   
189,570,589
 
 
         
Property and Equipment, net
   
3,256
   
-
 
Deferred tax asset
   
-
   
9,000
 
 
         
TOTAL ASSETS
 
$
195,186,301
 
$
189,579,589
 
 
         
LIABILITIES & STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY
         
Liabilities
         
Accounts payable & accrued expenses
 
$
603,520
 
$
344,638
 
Deferred Interest on investments
   
2,163,057
       
Deferred underwriting fees
   
4,000,000
   
4,000,000
 
Income taxes payable
   
206,687
   
   
 
Total Liabilities
   
6,973,264
   
4,344,638
 
Common Stock, $.0001 par value, 6,599,999 shares subject to possible redemption, at redemption value of $9.80 per share
   
64,679,990
   
64,679,990
 
 
         
Commitments
         
 
         
Stockholders’ Equity
         
Preferred Stock, $.0001 par value; authorized, 1,000,000 shares; none issued or outstanding
   
-
     
Common Stock, $.0001 par value, authorized, 100,000,000 shares; 29,026,924 shares issued and outstanding
   
2,903
   
2,903
 
(including 6,599,999 shares subject to possible redemption)
         
Additional paid in capital
   
120,441,727
   
120,441,727
 
Earnings accumulated in the development stage
   
3,088,417
   
110,331
 
Total Stockholders’ Equity
   
123,533,047
   
120,554,961
 
 
         
TOTAL LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY
 
$
195,186,301
 
$
189,579,589
 
 
The accompanying notes should be read in conjunction with the financial statements.
 
F-7

 
Star Maritime Acquisition Corp.
(a development stage company)
 
Statement of Income
 
 
 
 For the Year
Ended
December 31,
2006
 
May 13, 2005
(date of inception)
to
December 31,
2005
 
May 13, 2005
(date of inception)
to
December 31,
2006
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
Operating expenses
             
Professional fees
 
$
596,423
 
$
19,600
 
$
616,023
 
Insurance
   
112,242
   
4,234
   
116,476
 
Due diligence costs
   
262,877
   
-
   
262,877
 
Other
   
239,558
   
26,377
   
265,935
 
Total operating expenses
   
1,211,100
   
50,211
   
1,261,311
 
                     
Interest income
   
4,395,873
   
183,542
   
4,579,415
 
Income before provision for income taxes
   
3,184,773
   
133,331
   
3,318,104
 
Provision for income taxes
   
206,687
   
23,000
   
229,687
 
Net income
 
$
2,978,086
 
$
110,331
 
$
3,088,417
 
Earnings per share (basic and diluted)
 
$
0.10
 
$
0.01
 
$
0.14
 
Weighted average shares outstanding - basic and diluted
   
29,026,924
   
9,918,282
   
21,601,120
 
 
The accompanying notes should be read in conjunction with the financial statements.
 
F-8

 
Star Maritime Acquisition Corp.
(a development stage company)
 


   
Common Stock
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Shares
 
Amount
 
Additional paid-in capital
 
Earnings accumulated in the development stage
 
Total stockholders' equity
 
May 13, 2005 (inception) to December 31, 2006
                     
                       
Stock Issuance on May 17, 2005 at $.003 per share
   
9,026,924
 
$
903
 
$
24,097
 
$
-
 
$
25,000
 
                                 
Private placement issued December 15, 2005 at $10 per share
   
1,132,500
   
113
   
11,324,887
         
11,325,000
 
                                 
Common shares issued December 21, 2005 at $10 per share
   
18,867,500
   
1,887
   
188,673,113
         
188,675,000
 
                                 
Expenses of offerings
               
(14,900,380
)
       
(14,900,380
)
                                 
Proceeds subject to possible redemption of 6,599,999 shares
               
(64,679,990
)
       
(64,679,990
)
                                 
Net income for the period May 13, 2005 (inception) to December 31, 2005
   
-
   
-
   
-
   
110,331
   
110,331
 
                                 
Balance, December 31, 2005
   
29,026,924
 
$
2,903
 
$
120,441,727
 
$
110,331
 
$
120,554,961
 
                                 
Net income for the year ended December 31, 2006
   
-
   
-
   
-
   
2,978,086
   
2,978,086
 
                                 
Balance, December 31, 2006
 
 
29,026,924
 
$
2,903
 
$
120,441,727
 
$
3,088,417
 
$
123,533,047
 
 
The accompanying notes should be read in conjunction with the financial statements.
 
F-9

 
Star Maritime Acquisition Corp.
(a development stage company)
 
 
   
For the Year Ended
 December 31,
2006
 
May 13, 2005 (date of inception) to December 31, 2005
 
May 13, 2005 (date of inception) to December 31, 2006
 
Cash flows from operating activities:
             
Net Income
 
$
2,978,086
 
$
110,331
 
$
3,088,417
 
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash used in operating activities:
             
Depreciation
   
408
       
408
 
Changes in operating assets and liabilities:
           
-
 
Increase in value of trust account
   
(4,056,715
)
 
(183,542
)
 
(4,240,257
)
Increase in prepaid expenses and other current assets
   
(30,881
)
 
(118,766
)
 
(149,647
)
Decrease (increase) in deferred tax asset
   
9,000
   
(9,000
)
 
-
 
Increase in accounts payable and accrued expenses
   
429,467
   
174,053
   
603,520
 
Increase in deferred interest
   
2,163,057
   
-
   
2,163,057
 
Increase in taxes payable
   
206,687
   
-
   
206,687
 
Net cash provided by (used in) operating activities
   
1,699,109
   
(26,924
)
 
1,672,185
 
 
                   
Cash flows from investing activities:
             
Payment to trust account
   
-
   
(188,675,000
)
 
(188,675,000
)
Capital expenditures
   
(3,664
)
 
-
   
(3,664
)
Net cash used in investing activities
   
(3,664
)
 
(188,675,000
)
 
(188,678,664
)
 
                   
Cash flows from financing activities:
             
Gross proceeds from public offering
       
188,675,000
   
188,675,000
 
Gross proceeds from private placement
       
11,325,000
   
11,325,000
 
Proceeds of note payable to stockholder
   
-
   
590,000
   
590,000
 
Repayment of note payable to stockholder
   
-
   
(590,000
)
 
(590,000
)
Proceeds from sale of shares of common stock
   
-
   
25,000
   
25,000
 
Payment of offering costs
   
(170,585
)
 
(10,729,795
)
 
(10,900,380
)
Net cash provided by financing activities
   
(170,585
)
 
189,295,205
   
189,124,620
 
                     
Net cash increase for period
   
1,524,860
   
593,281
   
2,118,141
 
                     
Cash at beginning of period
   
593,281
   
-
   
-
 
Cash at end of period
 
$
2,118,141
 
$
593,281
 
$
2,118,141
 
Supplemental cash disclosure
             
Interest paid
 
$
-
 
$
9,163
 
$
9,163
 
Supplemental schedule of non-cash financing activities
             
Accrual of deferred underwriting fees
 
$
-
 
$
4,000,000
 
$
4,000,000
 
Accrual of offering costs
 
$
-
 
$
170,585
     
 
The accompanying notes should be read in conjunction with the financial statements.
F-10

 
Star Maritime Acquisition Corp.
(a development stage company)
Notes to Financial Statements

1. ORGANIZATION AND BUSINESS OPERATIONS
 
Star Maritime Acquisition Corp. (the “Company”) was incorporated in Delaware on May 13, 2005. The Company was formed to serve as a vehicle for the acquisition through a merger, capital stock exchange, asset acquisition, or other similar business combination (“Business Combination”) with one or more businesses in the shipping industry. The company has not acquired an entity as of December 31, 2006. The Company has selected December 31 as its fiscal year end. The Company is considered to be in the development stage and is subject to the risks associated with activities of development stage companies. Certain amounts in the December 31, 2005 financial statements have been reclassified to conform to the current year presentation.
 
On December 13, 2006, the Company created a wholly-owned subsidiary, Star Bulk Carriers Corp. (“Star Bulk”) registered in the Marshall Islands. Star Bulk was not funded within 2006 and therefore, there is no related effect on the financial statements.
 
The registration statement for the Company’s initial public offering (the “Public Offering”) was declared effective on December 15, 2005. The Company completed a private placement (the “Private Placement”) on such date and received net proceeds of $10,532,250. The Company consummated the Public Offering on December 21, 2005 and received net proceeds of $174,567,370. The Company’s management has broad discretion with respect to the specific application of the net proceeds of the Private Placement and the Public Offering (collectively the “Offerings”) (as described in Note 3), although substantially all of the net proceeds of the Offerings are intended to be generally applied toward consummating a business combination with a target company. As used herein, a “target business” shall include an operating business in the international maritime industry and a “business combination” shall mean the acquisition by the Company of a target business.
 
Of the proceeds of the Offerings, $188,675,000 is being held in a trust account (“Trust Account”) and invested until the earlier of (i) the consummation of the first business combination or (ii) the distribution of the Trust Account as described below. The amount in the Trust Account includes $3,773,500 of contingent underwriting compensation and $226,500 of contingent private placement fees (collectively, the “Discount”) which will be paid to the underwriters if a business combination is consummated, but which will be forfeited in part if public stockholders elect to have their shares redeemed for cash if a business combination is consummated. The remaining proceeds may be used to pay for additional financing costs accrued but not yet paid, business, legal and accounting due diligence on prospective acquisitions and continuing general and administrative expenses.
 
The Company, after signing a definitive agreement for the acquisition of a target business, will submit such transaction for stockholder approval. In the event that public stockholders owning 32.99% or more of the outstanding stock sold in the Proposed Offerings vote against the business combination and elect to have the Company redeem their shares for cash, the business combination will not be consummated. All of the Company’s stockholders prior to the Proposed Offerings, including all of the officers and directors of the Company (“Initial Stockholders”), have agreed to vote their 9,026,924 founding shares of common stock in accordance with the vote of the majority in interest of all other stockholders of the Company with respect to any business combination and to vote the shares they acquired in the Private Placement or in the aftermarket in favor of the business combination. After consummation of the Company’s first business combination, all of these voting safeguards will no longer be applicable.
 
With respect to the first business combination which is approved and consummated, any holder of shares sold in the Public Offering, other than the Initial Stockholders and their nominees (the “Public Stockholders”) who voted against the business combination may demand that the Company redeem his or her shares. The per share redemption price will equal $10.00 per share (inclusive of a pro rata portion of the discount ($0.20 per share) and interest earned thereon). Accordingly, Public Stockholders holding 32.99% of the aggregate number of shares sold in the Proposed Offerings may seek redemption of their shares in the event of a business combination.

F-11

 
Star Maritime Acquisition Corp.
(a development stage company)
Notes to Financial Statements
 
The accompanying financial statements have been prepared assuming that Star Maritime Acquisition Corp. will continue as a going concern. The Company’s Certificate of Incorporation provides for mandatory liquidation of the Company by December 21, 2007, without stockholder approval, in the event that the Company does not consummate a business combination within 18 months from the date of consummation of the Public Offering, or 24 months from the consummation of the Public Offering if certain extension criteria have been satisfied. The Initial Stockholders have agreed to waive their rights to participate in any liquidation distribution occurring upon its failure to consummate a business combination with respect to those shares of common stock acquired by them prior to the Public Offering and with respect to the shares included in the 1,132,500 units purchased in the private placement. In addition, the underwriters have agreed to waive their rights to the $3,773,500 of contingent compensation and $226,500 of placement fees deposited in the trust account for their benefit. Accordingly, in the event of liquidation, the public stockholders will receive $10.00 per unit plus interest (net of taxes payable and that portion of the earned interest previously released to the Company). The Company will pay the costs of liquidation and dissolution from remaining assets outside of the trust account. The financial statements do not include any adjustments that might result from the outcome of this uncertainty.
 
2. SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES

Use of estimates
 
The preparation of financial statements in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of expenses during the reporting period. Actual results could differ from those estimates.

Concentration of Credit Risk

Financial instruments that potentially subject the Company to credit risk consist of cash equivalents and short-term investments. The Company’s policy is to place investments with financial institutions evaluated as being creditworthy, or in short-term money market funds which are exposed to minimal interest rate and credit risk.

Cash and cash equivalents
 
The Company considers all highly liquid investments with original maturities of three months or less to be cash equivalents.

The company maintains cash in bank deposit accounts which, at times, exceed federally insured limits. The company has not experienced any losses on these accounts.


Deferred Interest

A portion (32.99%) of the interest earned on the Trust Account has been deferred on the balance sheet as it represents interest attributable to the common stock subject to possible redemption (See Note 1).

F-12


Star Maritime Acquisition Corp.
(a development stage company)
Notes to Financial Statements


Income taxes
 
Deferred income taxes are provided for the differences between the bases of assets and liabilities for financial reporting and income tax purposes. A valuation allowance is established when necessary to reduce deferred tax assets to the amount expected to be realized.
 
Property and Equipment

Property and equipment, which is principally computer equipment, is recorded at cost and is depreciated using the straight-line method over its useful life.

Stock Based Compensation

In December 2004, the Financial Accounting Standards Board issued statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 123 (revised 2004) (“SFAS 123 (R)”), “Share Based Project.” SFAS 123 (R) required all share-based payments to employees, including grants of employee stock options, to be recognized in the financial statements based on their fair values. The Company adopted SFAS 123(R) effective January 1, 2006. The adoption of this standard has no effect on the financial statements as of December 31, 2006.

Earnings per common share

Basic earnings per share are computed by dividing the net income by the weighted average common shares outstanding during the period. Diluted earnings per share reflects the additional dilution for all potentially dilutive securities such as stock warrants and options. The effect of the 20,000,000 outstanding warrants, issued in connection with the initial public offering and the private placement described in Note 3 has not been considered in the diluted earnings per share since the warrants are contingently exercisable.
 
Recently issued accounting pronouncements

In June 2006, the FASB issued Interpretation No. 48, “Accounting for Uncertainty in Income Taxes-an Interpretation of FASB Statement No. 109” (“FIN 48”). FIN 48 clarifies the accounting for uncertainty in income taxes recognized in a company’s financial statements in accordance with SFAS No. 109, “Accounting for Income Taxes.” FIN 48 prescribes a recognition threshold and measurement attribute for the financial statement recognition and measurement of the tax position taken or expected to be taken in a tax return. FIN 48 is effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2006.

Management does not believe that any other recently issued, but not yet effective, accounting standards if currently adopted would have a material effect on the accompanying financial statements.
 
F-13


Star Maritime Acquisition Corp.
(a development stage company)
Notes to Financial Statements
 
Management does not believe that any other recently issued, but not yet effective, accounting standards if currently adopted would have a material effect on the accompanying financial statements.

3. STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY
 
Public Offering
 
On December 21, 2005, the Company sold 18,867,500 units to the public at a price of $10.00 per unit. Each unit consists of one share of the Company’s common stock, $.0001 par value, and one redeemable common stock purchase warrant (“warrant”). Each warrant entitles the holder to purchase from the Company one share of common stock at an exercise price of $8.00 commencing the later of the completion of a business combination with a target business or December 15, 2005 and expiring December 15, 2009. The warrants are redeemable at a price of $.01 per warrant upon 30 days notice after the warrants become exercisable, only in the event that the last sale price of the common stock is at least $14.25 per share for any 20 trading days within 30 trading day period ending on the third day prior to date on which notice of redemption is given.
 
Private Placement
 
On December 15, 2005, the Company sold to certain of its officers and directors an aggregate of 1,132,500 units identical to the units sold in the Public Offering at a price of $10.00 per unit.

Common Stock Reserved For Issuance 

At December 31, 2006 20,000,000 shares of common stock were reserved for issuance upon exercise of redeemable warrants.

Preferred Stock

The Company is authorized to issue 1,000,000 shares of preferred stock with such designations, voting, and other rights and preferences, as maybe determined from time to time by the Board of Directors.

F-14


Star Maritime Acquisition Corp.
(a development stage company)
Notes to Financial Statements
 
4. - INCOME TAXES
 
The provision for income taxes consists of the following:
 
   
 For the period ended
 
   
 December 31,
 
   
 2006
 
 2005
 
Current-Federal
 
$
206,687
 
$
-
 
Current-State and Local
   
-
   
32,000
 
Deferred-Federal
   
-
 
 
-
 
Deferred-State and Local
   
-
   
(9,000
)
Total
 
$
206,687
 
$
23,000
 

 
F-15

 
Star Maritime Acquisition Corp.
(a development stage company)
Notes to Financial Statements

The total provision for income taxes differs from the amount which would be computed by applying the U.S. Federal income tax rate to income before provision for income taxes as follows:

   
 For the period ended
 
   
December 31,
 
   
2006
 
2005
 
Statutory federal income tax rate
   
34
%
 
34
%
State and local income taxes
   
   
17
%
Valuation allowance
   
14
%
 
 
Interest income not taxable for federal tax purposes
   
(41
%)
 
(34
%)
Effective tax rate     7
%
 
17
%
 
The tax effect of temporary differences that give rise to the net deferred tax asset is as follows:
 
 
 
 For the period ended
 
 
 
December 31,
 
 
   
2006
   
2005
 
Expenses deferred for income taxes
  $
447,712
  $
9,000
Valuation allowance
   
(447,712
)
 
Total deferred tax asset   $
  $
9,000
 
 
5. COMMITMENTS

On December 19, 2006, the Company entered into a Sublease and Administrative Services Agreement with Blue Diamond Realty, LLC, a Delaware limited liability company ("Blue Diamond"). Effective as of December 1, 2006, Blue Diamond agreed to sublet offices to the Company located at 103 Foulk Road, Wilmington, Delaware. and provide the Company with such office space and equipment, including a conference room, as well as administrative support necessary for the Company's business. The Agreement is for a one-year term effective December 1, 2006 through December 31, 2007, with an automatic renewal each year for an additional one year period, unless either party gives the other party at least 90 days written notice of its intent to terminate the Agreement. The Company shall pay Blue Diamond annual base rent and administrative services fees in the aggregate of $4,000 payable on January 1 each year.
 
On October 4, 2006, Star Maritime entered into an agreement with Bongard Shipbrokers S.A., or Bongard, for purposes of engaging Bongard in connection with sourcing, developing contacts and making referrals for potential target businesses and providing evaluations of such potential target businesses. In exchange for such services, Star Maritime is obligated to pay a contingent fee of $800,000 within thirty days of the closing of a business combination transaction. In the event that Star Maritime does not consummate a business combination transaction, no fees are payable to Bongard pursuant to the agreement.

On December 20, 2006, Star Maritime entered into an agreement with Cantor Fitzgerald & Co., or CF&Co., for purposes of engaging CF&Co. as financial advisor in connection with a possible business combination transaction. Pursuant to the agreement, CF & Co. was engaged to provide such services as creating financial models, advising on the structure of a possible transaction with a target business, negotiating agreements on behalf of and in conjunction with management and assisting management with the preparation of marketing and roadshow materials. In exchange for such services, Star Maritime is obligated to pay a contingent fee of $1,250,000, plus expenses of up to $60,000, within thirty days of the closing of a business combination transaction if such transaction is consummated by December 31, 2007.

On December 22, 2006, Star Maritime entered into an agreement with Maxim Group LLC, or Maxim, for purposes of engaging Maxim as co-lead financial advisor in connection with a possible business combination transaction. Pursuant to the agreement, Maxim was engaged to provide such services as creating financial models, advising on the structure of a possible transaction with a target business and assisting in the preparation of terms sheets or letters of intent. In exchange for such services, Star Maritime is obligated to pay a contingent fee of $800,000 for any business combination transaction consummated during the term of the agreement (or within six months of the termination date). The agreement terminates on October 31, 2007, unless terminated earlier by either Star Maritime or Maxim upon thirty days’ written notice, or extended by mutual agreement.
 
The Initial Stockholders have agreed to surrender up to an aggregate of 200,000 of their shares of common stock to the Company for cancellation upon consummation of a business combination in the event public stockholders exercise their right to have the Company redeem their shares for cash. The number of shares that the Initial Stockholders will surrender will be determined by calculating the dollar amount of the Trust Account (exclusive of interest) paid to redeeming stockholders above the amount attributable to such stockholders ($9.23 per share) and the Discount ($.20 per share) and dividing it by $10.00 (the value attributed to the shares for purposes of this calculation). Accordingly, for each 1,000 shares redeemed up to 3,508,772 shares, the Initial Stockholders will surrender 57 shares for cancellation.
 
The Company has engaged the representative of the underwriters, on a non-exclusive basis, as its agent for the solicitation of the exercise of the warrants. To the extent not inconsistent with the guidelines of the NASD and the rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission, the Company has agreed to pay the representative for bona fide services rendered a commission equal to 5% of the exercise price for each warrant exercised more than one year after the date of the prospectus if the exercise was solicited by the underwriters. In addition to soliciting, either orally or in writing, the exercise of the warrants, the representative’s services may also include disseminating information, either orally or in writing, to warrant holders about the Company or the market for the Company’s securities, and assisting in the processing of the exercise of the warrants. No compensation will be paid to the representative upon the exercise of the warrants if:

·  
the market price of the underlying shares of common stock is lower than the exercise price;

·  
the holder of the warrants has not confirmed in writing that the representative solicited the exercise;

·  
the warrants are held in a discretionary account;

·  
the warrants are exercised in an unsolicited transaction; or

·  
the arrangements to pay the commission are not disclosed in the prospectus provided to warrant holders at the time of exercise.
 
6. SUBSEQUENT EVENTS (UNAUDITED)

On January 12, 2007, the Company, through its newly-formed, wholly-owned subsidiary Star Bulk Carriers Corp., a Marshall Islands company ("Star Bulk"), agreed to purchase eight drybulk carriers (the "Vessels") from certain wholly-owned subsidiary affiliates of TMT Co., Ltd., a Taiwan corporation (TMT Co., Ltd. and such subsidiary affiliates, collectively, "TMT").The aggregate purchase price for the Vessels is $345.2 million (the "Purchase Price"), consisting of $120.7 million payable in 12,537,645 shares of common stock, par value $0.01, of Star Bulk (the "Stock Consideration") and $224.5 million in cash (the "Cash Consideration").

On February 7, 2007, Star Bulk formed the following wholly-owned subsidiaries registered in the Marshall Islands. The share capital of each of the subsidiaries consists of 500 authorized and issued shares without par value.

Star Alpha Inc.
Star Beta Inc.
Star Gamma Inc.
Star Epsilon Inc.
Star Iota Inc.
Star Theta Inc.
Star Zita Inc.
Star Bulk Management Inc.

Star Gamma Inc., a wholly-owned subsidiary of Star Bulk, entered into time a charter agreement dated, February 23, 2007, with TMT for the C Duckling (to be renamed the Star Gamma). The charter rate for the Star Gamma will be $28,500 per day for a term of one year. Star Iota Inc., a wholly-owned subsidiary of Star Bulk, entered into a time charter agreement, dated February 26, 2007, with TMT for the Mommy Duckling (to be renamed the Star Iota). The charter rate for the Star Iota will be $18,000 per day for a term of one year. Each charter will commence as of the date the vessel is delivered to the purchaser. Pursuant to the Supplemental Agreement, these time charters will be null and void if the Redomiciliation Merger is not consummated.
 
F-16

 
APPENDICES
 
Appendix A
Memorandum of Agreement relating to the A Duckling dated January 12, 2007 between Star Bulk Carriers Corp., as buyer, and A Duckling Corporation, as seller.
   
Appendix B
Memorandum of Agreement relating to the B Duckling dated January 12, 2007 between Star Bulk Carriers Corp., as buyer, and B Duckling Corporation, as seller.
   
Appendix C
Memorandum of Agreement relating to the C Duckling dated January 12, 2007 between Star Bulk Carriers Corp., as buyer, and C Duckling Corporation, as seller.
   
Appendix D
Memorandum of Agreement relating to the F Duckling dated January 12, 2007 between Star Bulk Carriers Corp., as buyer, and F Duckling Corporation, as seller.
   
Appendix E
Memorandum of Agreement relating to the G Duckling dated January 12, 2007 between Star Bulk Carriers Corp., as buyer, and G Duckling Corporation, as seller.
   
Appendix F
Memorandum of Agreement relating to the I Duckling dated January 12, 2007 between Star Bulk Carriers Corp., as buyer, and I Duckling Corporation, as seller.
   
Appendix G
Memorandum of Agreement relating to the J Duckling dated January 12, 2007 between Star Bulk Carriers Corp., as buyer, and J Duckling Corporation, as seller.
   
Appendix H
Memorandum of Agreement relating to the Mommy Duckling dated January 12, 2007 between Star Bulk Carriers Corp., as buyer, and Mommy Duckling Corporation, as seller.
   
Appendix I
Supplemental Agreement, dated January 12, 2007.
 
 
Appendix J
Master Agreement, dated January 12, 2007.
   
Appendix K
Agreement and Plan of Merger by and between Star Maritime Acquisition Corp. and Star Bulk Carriers Corp.
   
Appendix L
Form of Proxy.
 

Appendix A
 
 
MEMORANDUM OF AGREEMENT
 
Dated: January 12, 2007
 
Norwegian Shipbrokers’ Association’s Memorandum of Agreement for sale and purchase of ships. Adopted by The Baltic and International Maritime Council (BIMCO) in 1956.
Code-name
SALEFORM 1993
Revised 1966, 1983 and 1986/87.
 
Duckling Corporation, Panama
hereinafter called the Sellers, have agreed to sell, and Star Bulk Carriers Corp., Majuro -
Marshall Islands or nominee
 
hereinafter called the Buyers, have agreed to buy-
 
Name: A. DUCKLING
 
Classification Society/Class:  BUREAU VERITAS
 
Built: 1992    By: STOCNIA GDYNIA S.A., POLAND
 
Flag: PANAMA    Place of Registration: PANAMA
 
Call Sign: 3EAJ8    Grt/Nrt: 91,642/53,439
 
Register Number IMO Number: 8800391
 
hereinafter called the Vessel, on the following terms and conditions:
 
Definitions
 
"Banking days" are days on which banks are open both in the country of the currency stipulated for the Purchase Price in Clause 1 and in the place of closing stipulated in Clause 8.
 
"In writing" or "written" means a letter handed over from the Sellers to the Buyers or vice versa, a registered letter, telex, telefax or other modern form of written communication.
 
"Classification Society" or "Class" means the Society referred to in line 4.
 
1.
Purchase Price USD 59,329,707.14
 
2.
Deposit
 
As security for the correct fulfilment of this Agreement the Buyers shall pay a deposit of 10 % (ten per cent) of the Purchase Price within ___ banking days from the date of this Agreement. This deposit shall be placed with _______________ and held by them in a joint account for the Sellers and the Buyers, to be released in accordance with joint written instructions of the Sellers and the Buyers. Interest, if any, to be credited to the Buyers. Any fee charged for holding the said deposit shall be borne equally by the Sellers and the Buyers.
 
3.
Payment
 
The said Purchase Price shall be paid in full free of bank charges to_____________________ on delivery of the Vessel, but not later than 3 banking days after the Vessel is in every respect physically ready for delivery in accordance with the terms and conditions of this Agreement and Notice of Readiness has been given in accordance with Clause 5.The Purchase Price shall be paid as provided in the Supplemental Agreement referenced in Clause 25.
 

 
4.
Inspections
 
a)*
The Buyers have inspected and accepted the Vessel's classification records. The Buyers have also inspected the Vessel at/in ____________on ____________ and have accepted the Vessel following this inspection and the sale is outright and definite, subject only to the terms and conditions of this Agreement.
 
b)*
The Buyers shall have the right to inspect the Vessel and Vessel's classification records and declareat a suitable place at the Buyers' option. However these inspections are not a subject and once the subjects stipulated in clause 18 are lifted the sale becomes outright and definite, subject to the provisons of the Supplemental Agreement referenced in Clause 25. whether same are accepted or not within
 
The Sellers shall provide for inspection of the Vessel at/in (to be advised by Sellers)
 
The Buyers shall undertake the inspection without undue delay to the Vessel. Should the Buyers cause undue delay they shall compensate the Sellers for the losses thereby incurred.The Buyers shall inspect the Vessel without opening up and without cost to the Sellers. During the inspection, the Vessel's deck, instuction books, maintenance records,and engine log books as available on board shall be made available for examination by the Buyers. If the Vessel is accepted after such inspection, the sale shall become outright and definite, subject only to the terms and conditions of this Agreement, provided the Sellers receive written notice of acceptance from the Buyers within 72 hours after completion of such inspection.
 
Should notice of acceptance of the Vessel's classification records and of the Vessel not be received by the Sellers as aforesaid, the deposit together with interest earned shall be released immediately to the Buyers, whereafter this Agreement shall be null and void.
 
*
4 a) and 4b) are alternatives; delete whichever is not applicable. In the absence of deletions, alternative 4a) to apply.
 
5.
Notices, time and place of delivery
 
a)
The Sellers shall keep the Buyers well informed of the Vessel's itinerary and shall provide the Buyers with 20 , 15,and 7, 5, 2 days approximate and 1 definite notice of the estimated time of arrival at the intended place of drydocking/underwater inspection/delivery. When the Vessel is at the place of delivery and in every respect physically ready for delivery in accordance with this Agreement, the Sellers shall give the Buyers a written Notice of Readiness for delivery.
 
b)
The Vessel shall be delivered and taken over safely afloat at a safe and accessible berth or anchorage at/in a port worldwide (range/s to be advised) in the Sellers' option.
 
Expected time of delivery: as soon as practically possible following the Effective Date of the Merger (as defined in the Supplemental Agreement referenced in Clause 25) but not later than the last discharging port of the last laden voyage
 
Date of cancelling (see Clauses 5 c), 6 b) (iii) and 14):as per Supplemental Agreement referenced in Clause 25
 
c)
If the Sellers anticipate that, notwithstanding the exercise of due diligence by them, the Vessel will not be ready for delivery by the cancelling date they may notify the Buyers in writing stating the date when they anticipate that the Vessel will be ready for delivery and propose a new cancelling date. Upon receipt of such notification the Buyers shall have the option of either cancelling this Agreement in accordance with Clause 14 within 7 running days of receipt of the notice or of accepting the new date as the new cancelling date. If the Buyers have not declared their option within 7 running days of receipt of the Sellers' notification or if the Buyers accept the new date, the date proposed in the Sellers' notification shall be deemed to be the new cancelling date and shall be substituted for the cancelling date stipulated in line 61.
 
If this Agreement is maintained with the new cancelling date all other terms and conditions hereof including these contained in Clauses 5 a) and 5 c) shall remain unaltered and in full force and effect. Cancellation or failure to cancel shall be entirely without prejudice to any claim for damages the Buyers may have under Clause 14 for the Vessel not being ready by the original cancelling date.
 

 
d) 
Should the Vessel become an actual, constructive or compromised total loss before delivery the deposit together with interest earned shall be released immediately to the Buyers whereafter this Agreement shall be null and void.
 
6.
Drydocking/Divers InspectionSee Clause 19
 
a)**
The Sellers shall place the Vessel in drydock at the port of delivery for inspection by the Classification Society of the Vessel's underwater parts below the deepest load line, the extent of the inspection being in accordance with the Classification Society's rules. If the rudder, propeller, bottom or other underwater parts below the deepest load line are found broken, damaged or defective so as to affect the Vessel's class, such defects shall be made good at the Sellers' expense to the satisfaction of the Classification Society without condition/recommendation*.
 
b)**
(i) The Vessel is to be delivered without drydocking. However, the Buyers shall have the right at their expense to arrange for an underwater inspection by a diver approved by the Classification Society prior to the delivery of the Vessel. The Sellers shall at their cost make the Vessel available for such inspection. The extent of the inspection and the conditions under which it is performed shall be to the satisfaction of the Classification Society. If the conditions at the port of delivery are unsuitable for such inspection, the Sellers shall make the Vessel available at a suitable alternative place near to the delivery port.


(ii) If the rudder, propeller, bottom or other underwater parts below the deepest load line are found broken, damaged or defective so as to affect the Vessel's class, then unless repairs can be carried out afloat to the satisfaction of the Classification Society, the Sellers shall arrange for the Vessel to be drydocked at their expense for inspection by the Classification Society of the Vessel's underwater parts below the deepest load line, the extent of the inspection being in accordance with the Classification Society's rules. If the rudder, propeller, bottom or other underwater parts below the deepest load line are found broken, damaged or defective so as to affect the Vessel's class, such defects shall be made good by the Sellers at their expense to the satisfaction of the Classification Society without condition/recommendation*. In such event the Sellers are to pay also for the cost of the underwater inspection and the Classification Society's attendance.
 
(iii) If the Vessel is to be drydocked pursuant to Clause 6 b) (ii) and no suitable drydocking facilities are available at the port of delivery, the Sellers shall take the Vessel to a port where suitable drydocking facilities are available, whether within or outside the delivery range a6 per Clause 5 b). Once drydocking has taken place the Sellers shall deliver the Vessel at a port within the delivery range as per Clause 5 b) which shall, for the purpose of this Clause, become the new port of delivery. In such event the cancelling date provided for in Clause 5 b) shall be extended by the additional time required for the drydocking and extra steaming, but limited to a maximum of 14 running days.
 
c)
If the Vessel is drydocked pursuant to Clause 6 a) or 6 b) above
 
(i) the Classification Society may require survey of the tailshaft system, the extent of the survey being to the satisfaction of the Classification surveyor. If such survey is not required by the Classification Society, the Buyers shall have the right to require the tailshaft to be drawn and surveyed by the Classification Society, the extent of the survey being in accordance with the Classification Society's rules for tailshaft survey and consistent with the current stage of the Vessel's survey cycle. The Buyers shall declare whether they require the tailshaft to be drawn and surveyed not later than by the completion of the inspection by the Classification Society. The drawing and refitting of the tailshaft shall be arranged by the Sellers. Should any parts of the tailshaft system be condemned or found defective so as to affect the Vessel's class, those parts shall be renewed or made good at the Sellers' expense to the satisfaction of the Classification Society without condition/recommendation*.

(ii) the expenses relating to the survey of the tailshaft system shall be borne by the Buyers unless the Classification Society requires such survey to be carried out, in which case the Sellers shall pay these expenses. The Sellers shall also pay the expenses if the Buyers require the survey and parts of the system are condemned or found defective or broken so as to affect the Vessel's class*.


 
(iii) the expenses in connection with putting the Vessel in and taking her out of drydock, including the drydock dues and the Classification Society's fees shall be paid by the Sellers if the Classification Society issues any condition/recommendation* as a result of the survey or if it requires survey of the tailshaft system. In all other cases the Buyers shall pay the aforesaid expenses, dues and fees.
 
(iv) the Buyers' representative shall have the right to be present in the drydock, but without interfering with the work or decisions of the Classification surveyor.
 
(v) the Buyers shall have the right to have the underwater parts of the Vessel cleaned and painted at their risk and expense without interfering with the Sellers' or the Classification surveyor's work, if any, and without affecting the Vessel's timely delivery. If, however, the Buyers' work in drydock is still in progress when the Sellers have completed the work which the Sellers are required to do, the additional docking time needed to complete the Buyers' work shall be for the Buyers' risk and expense. In the event that the Buyers' work requires such additional time, the Sellers may upon completion of the Sellers' work tender Notice of Readiness for delivery whilst the Vessel is still in drydock and the Buyers shall be obliged to take delivery in accordance with Clause 3, whether the Vessel is in drydock or not and irrespective of Clause 5 b).
 
*
Notes, if any, in the surveyor's report which are accepted by the Classification Society without condition/recommendation are not to be taken into account.
 
**
6 a) and 6 b) are alternatives; delete whichever is not applicable). In the absence of deletions, alternative 6 a) to apply.
 
7.
Spares/bunkers, etc.
 
The Sellers shall deliver the Vessel to the Buyers with everything belonging to her on board and on shore. All spare parts and spare equipment including spare tail-end shaft(s) and/or spare propeller(s)/propeller blade(s), if any, belonging to the Vessel at the time of inspection used or unused, whether on board or not shall become the Buyers' property, but spares on order are to be excluded. Forwarding charges, if any, shall be for the Buyers' account. The Sellers are not required to replace spare parts including spare tail-end shaft(s) and spare propeller(s)/propeller blade(s) which are taken out of spare and used as replacement prior to delivery, but the replaced items shall be the property of the Buyers. The radio installation and navigational equipment shall be included in the sale without extra payment if they are the property of the Sellers. Unused stores and provisions shall be included in the sale and be taken over by the Buyers without extra payment.
 
The Sellers have the right to take ashore crockery, plates, cutlery, linen and other articles bearing the Sellers' flag or name, provided they replace same with similar unmarked items. Library, forms, etc., exclusively for use in the Sellers' vessel(s), shall be excluded without compensation. Captain's, Officers' and Crew's personal belongings including the slop chest are to be excluded from the sale, as well as the following additional items (including items on hire): To Be Advised
 
The Buyers shall take over the remaining bunkers (if same are property of the Sellers)and unused lubricating oils in storage tanks and sealed drums and pay the current net market price (excluding barging expenses) at the port and date of delivery of the Vessel. See Clause 20
 
Payment under this Clause shall be made at the same time and place and in the same currency as the Purchase Price.
 
8.
Documentation
 
The place of closing: New York, USA
 
In exchange for payment of the Purchase Price the Sellers shall furnish the Buyers with delivery documents, namely:
 
a)
Legal Bill of Sale in a form recordable in Marshall Islands (the country in which the Buyers are to register the Vessel), warranting that the Vessel is free from all encumbrances, mortgages and maritime liens or any other debts or claims whatsoever, duly notarially attested and legalized by the consul of such country or other competent authority.
 

 
b)
Current Certificate of Ownership issued by the competent authorities of the flag state of the Vessel.
 
c)
Confirmation of Class issued within 72 hours3 working days prior to delivery.
 
d)
Current Certificate issued by the competent authorities stating that the Vessel is free from registered encumbrances.
 
e)
Certificate of Deletion of the Vessel from the Vessel's registry or other official evidence of deletion appropriate to the Vessel's registry at the time of delivery, or, in the event that the registry does not as a matter of practice issue such documentation immediately, a written undertaking by the Sellers to effect deletion from the Vessel's registry forthwith and furnish a Certificate or other official evidence of deletion to the Buyers promptly and latest within 4 (four) weeks after the Purchase Price has been paid and the Vessel has been delivered.
 
f)
Any such additional documents as may reasonably be required by the competent authorities for the purpose of registering the Vessel, provided the Buyers notify the Sellers of any such documents as soon as possible after the date of this Agreement. See Clause 22
 
At the time of delivery the Buyers and Sellers shall sign and deliver to each other a Protocol of Delivery and Acceptance confirming the date and time of delivery of the Vessel from the Sellers to the Buyers.
 
At the time of delivery the Sellers shall hand to the Buyers the classification certificate(s) as well as all plans, instruction books, maintenance records etc., which are on board the Vessel. Other certificates which are on board the Vessel shall also be handed over to the Buyers unless the Sellers are required to retain same, in which case the Buyers to have the right to take copies. Other technical documentation which may be in the Sellers' possession shall be promptly forwarded to the Buyers at their expense, if they so request. The Sellers may keep the Vessel's log books but the Buyers to have the right to take copies of same.
 
9.
Encumbrances
 
The Sellers warrant that the Vessel, at the time of delivery, is free from all charters (other than term employment/charters contemplated by the Supplemental Agreement referenced in Clause 25), encumbrances, mortgages and maritime liens or any other debts whatsoever. The Sellers hereby undertake to indemnify the Buyers against all consequences of claims made against the Vessel which have been incurred prior to the time of delivery. The Vessel on delivery to be delivered free of cargo /cargo residues, and free of any dunnage.
 
10.
Taxes, etc.
 
Any taxes, fees and expenses in connection with the purchase and registration under the Buyers' flag shall be for the Buyers' account, whereas similar charges in connection with the closing of the Sellers' register shall be for the Sellers' account.
 
11.
Condition on delivery
 
The Vessel with everything belonging to her shall be at the Sellers' risk and expense until she is delivered to the Buyers, but subject to the terms and conditions of this Agreement she shall be delivered and taken over as she was at the time of inspection, fair wear and tear excepted. However, the Vessel shall be delivered with her class maintained without condition/recommendation*, free of average damage affecting the Vessel's class, and with her classification certificates and International/national certificates and surveys, as well as all other certificates the Vessel had at the time of agreement inspection, valid and unextended without condition/recommendation* by Class or the relevant authorities for a minimum of 1 month from atthe time of delivery.
 
"Inspection" in this Clause 11 and in Clause 7, Line 157, shall mean the Buyers' inspection according to Clause 4 a) or 4 b), if applicable, or the Buyers' inspection prior to the signing of this Agreement. If the Vessel is taken over without inspection, the date of this Agreement shall be the relevant date.
 

 
*
Notes, if any, in the surveyor's report which are accepted by the Classification Society without condition/recommendation are not to be taken into account. 
 
12.  Name/markings
 
Upon delivery the Buyers undertake to change the name of the Vessel and alter funnel markings.
 
13.  Buyers'default
 
Should the deposit not be paid in accordance with Clause 2, the Sellers have the right to cancel this Agreement, and they shall be entitled to claim compensation for their losses and for all expenses incurred together with interest.
 
Should the Purchase Price not be paid in accordance with Clause 3, the Sellers have the right to cancel the Agreement, in which case the deposit together with interest earned shall be released to the Sellers. If the deposit does not cover their loss, the Sellers shall be entitled to claim further compensation for their losses and for all expenses incurred together with interest.
 
14.      Sellers' default as per Supplemental Agreement referenced in Clause 25
 
Should the Sellers fail to give Notice of Roadiness in accordance with Clause 5 a) or fail to be ready to validly complete a legal transfer by the date stipulated in line 61 the Buyers shall have the option of cancelling this Agreement provided always that the Sellers shall be granted a maximum of 3 banking days after Notice of Readiness has been given to make arrangements for the documentation set out in Clause 8. If after Notice of Readiness has been given but before the Buyers have taken delivery, the Vessel ceases to be physically ready for delivery and is not made physically ready again in every respect by the date stipulated in line 61 and new Notice of Readiness given, the Buyers shall retain their option to cancel. In the event that the Buyers elect to cancel this Agreement the deposit together with interest earned shall be released to them immediately.
 
Should the Sellers fail to give Notice of Readiness by the date stipulated in line 61 or fail to be ready to validly complete a legal transfer as aforesaid they shall make due compensation to the Buyers for their loss and for all expenses together with interest if their failure is due to proven negligence and whether or not the Buyers cancel this Agreement.
 
15.      Buyers' representatives See Clause 21
 
After this Agreement has been signed by both parties and the deposit has been lodged, the Buyers have the right to place two representatives on board the Vessel at their sole risk and expense upon arrival at ____________ on or about ________________________________ These representatives are on board for the purpose of familiarisation and in the capacity of observers only, and they shall not interfere in any respect with the operation of the Vessel. The Buyers' representatives shall sign the Sellers' letter of indemnity prior to their embarkation.
 
16.      Arbitration
 
a)*
This Agreement shall be governed by and construed in accordance with English law and any dispute arising out of this Agreement shall be referred to arbitration in London in accordance with the Arbitration Acts 1950 and 1979 or any statutory modification or re enactment thereof for the time being in force, one arbitrator being appointed by each party. On the receipt by one party of the nomination in writing of the other party's arbitrator, that party shall appoint their arbitrator within fourteen days, failing which the decision of the single arbitrator appointed shall apply. If two arbitrators property appointed shall not agree they shall appoint an umpire whose decision shall be final.
 

 
b)*
This Agreement shall be governed by and construed in accordance with Title 9 of the United States Code and the Law of the State of New York and should any dispute arise out of this Agreement, the matter in dispute shall be referred to three persons at New York, one to be appointed by each of the parties hereto, and the third by the two so chosen; their decision or that of any two of them shall be final, and for purpose of enforcing any award, this Agreement may be made a rule of the Court.
 
The proceedings shall be conducted in accordance with the rules of the Society of Maritime Arbitrators, Inc. New York.

c)*
Any dispute arising out of this Agreement shall be referred to arbitration at __________________________ , subject to the procedures applicable there. The laws of _______________ shall govern this Agreement.
 
*
16 a), 16 b) and 16 c) are alternatives; delete whichever is not applicable. In the absence of deletions, alternative 16 a) to apply.
 
Clauses 17-25 both inclusive are deemed are part of this agreement
 
This Charter Party is a computer generated copy of the "SALEFORM 1993" form printed by authority of Norwegian Shipbrokers' Association using software which is the copyright of Strategic Software Ltd. Any insertion or deletion to the form must be clearly visible. In the event of any modification made to the preprinted text of this document which is not clearly visible, the text of the original approved document shall apply. Norwegian Shipbrokers' Association and Strategic Software Ltd. assume no responsibility for any loss or damage caused as a result of discrepancies between the original approved document and this document.
 

 
ADDITIONAL CLAUSES
TO THE MEMORANDUM OF AGREEMENT - SALE FORM 1993
DATED JANUARY 12, 2007 FOR M.V. 'A DUCKLING' (THE VESSEL)
BETWEEN A DUCKLING CORPORATION PANAMA (THE SELLERS)
AND STAR BULK CARRIERS CORP. MARSHALL ISLANDS
OR NOMINEE (THE BUYERS)
 
CLAUSE 17
 
This sale is part of the sale and delivery of the following additional Motor Vessels:
 
M.V. "B Duckling"
M.V. "C Duckling"
M.V. "F Duckling"
M.V. "G Duckling"
M.V. "I Duckling"
M.V. "J Duckling"
M.V. "Mommy Duckling"
 
registered in the respective ownership of the following Owners:
 
B Duckling Corporation, Panama
C Duckling Corporation, Panama
F Duckling Corporation, Panama
G Duckling Corporation, Panama
I Duckling Corporation, Panama
J Duckling Corporation, Panama
Mommy Management Corp., Panama
 
and all ultimately beneficially owned by TMT Co., Ltd., Taiwan ("TMT"). In the event that one or more of the above vessels are not delivered pursuant to their respective MOA's for any reason whatsoever, TMT hereby agrees and assumes the obligation to substitute the non-delivered vessel(s) with replacement tonnage pursuant and subject to the terms of the Supplemental Agreement referenced in Clause 25.
 
CLAUSE 18
 
This sale is subject to:

i)
STAR MARITIME ACQUISITION CORP. Delaware ("Star Maritime") a listed company in the AMEX being the parent company of the Buyers filing a definitive proxy/registration statement (the "Registration Statement") with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the "SEC") and such Registration Statement being declared effective by the SEC.



ii)
Star Maritime obtaining the requisite approval of its stockholders for the Merger (as defined in Supplemental Agreement referenced in Clause 25) and the sale of the vessels provided for in the Supplemental Agreement referenced in Clause 25 at a duly convened stockholders' meeting.
 
CLAUSE 19
 
No dry-docking / however the Buyers have the right at Buyers' expense to carry out an under-water (defined as 'parts below the sea water line at time of divers inspection') inspection prior to or at the delivery port and the Sellers shall make the vessel available for such under-water inspection. Inspection of underwater parts shall be carried out by divers approved by the class with the presence of class surveyor and the Sellers/Buyers representatives. Such diver inspection shall be carried out in a manner acceptable to class surveyor. If the conditions at the port of delivery are unsuitable for such inspection, the Sellers shall make the Vessel available at a suitable alternative place near the delivery port.
 
In the event of any damage/s being found which lead to a recommendation by the classification society and immediate repairs are required, the Sellers shall then dry-dock the Vessel in accordance with clause 6 of the Norwegian Sale Form 1993, and Sellers shall repair same to class satisfaction. Cancelling date to be extended accordingly.
 
If damage/s are found which lead to a recommendation by the classification society, repair/s of which maybe be carried out by the Buyers at a later stage, as per classification society recommendation, then in lieu of Buyers taking delivery of the Vessel with said recommendation/s the Sellers shall pay to the Buyers the estimated repairing direct cost - this amount will be deducted from the purchase price on delivery.
 
This estimated repairing direct cost shall be the average cost of 2 quotations from reputable yards/repair shops at or near the delivery port, 1 obtained by Buyers and 1 obtained by Sellers determined in accordance with the cost of such repairs prevailing at the time of delivery of the Vessel, for repair works only without dry-docking costs and without costs of possible time lost, and in any case for the direct cost/s only.
 
It is understood that class shall be the sole arbiter in any matter under this Clause 19 affecting the Vessel's class.
 
The costs of class surveyor's fee and diver inspection will be for the Buyers' account.
 
CLAUSE 20
 
The Buyers are to pay extra for unused/unbroached lubricating oils in drums and designated storage tanks 'remaining on board' as per actual cost evidenced by net invoice prices including discounts. Also extra payment for bunkers 'remaining on board' at the Sellers' last paid prices (either bought in the open market or paid to last charterers).
 

 
CLAUSE 21
 
As from the Effective Date of Merger (as defined in the Supplemental Agreement referenced in Clause 25) Buyers shall have the right to place onboard up to a maximum of three (3) representatives until delivery as observers for familiarisation purposes only without interference to the Vessel's operation at Buyer's risk and expense. Representatives are to sign Sellers' indemnity form. Sellers shall assist where necessary in the application for visas for Buyer's ongoing representatives. Upon Vessel's arrival at the delivery port Buyers shall have the right to place on board three (3) more representatives on a daily basis up until delivery. Buyers representatives to have the right to communicate with their office / managers via the Vessel's communication means always at Buyers' cost. The Buyers' representatives shall have full access to Vessel's all non-private spaces, as well as to instruction books, plans, certificates, records, documents, plans, drawings and shall have the right to take photocopies of same but should not interfere with the Vessel's cargo discharge operations, if any.
 
CLAUSE 22
 
Sellers and Buyers to supply documentation which may be reasonably required and to be mutually agreed for the legal transfer of the Vessel and for her Marshall Islands registration under new flag and ownership (such list to form an addendum to the MOA).
 
At the time of delivery, in addition to other documents to be agreed per this clause, Buyers shall furnish Sellers with the following delivery documents:
 
(i)
Novation Agreement duly executed by Buyers;
 
(ii)
Secretary's Certificate of Buyers authorizing this MOA, the Supplemental Agreement and the Novation Agreement in respect of the charter of the Vessel, together with incumbency certificates; and
 
(iii)
Secretary's Certificate of each of Star Maritime and Star Bulk authorizing the Master Agreement, the Supplemental Agreement and this MOA, together with incumbency certificates.
 
At the time of delivery, in addition to other documents to be agreed per this clause, Sellers shall furnish Buyers with the following delivery documents:
 
(i)
Novation Agreement duly executed by Sellers and the charterer;
 
(ii)
Secretary's Certificate of Sellers authorizing this MOA, the Supplemental Agreement and the Novation Agreement in respect of the charter of the Vessel, together with incumbency certificates; and
 
(iii)
Secretary's Certificate of each of TMT authorizing the Master Agreement, the Supplemental Agreement and this MOA, together with incumbency certificates.
 
CLAUSE 23
 
Sellers warrant that on the date hereof and on the date of closing, the Vessel shall be entitled to trade worldwide within Institute Warranty Limits without restriction on limitation.
 


CLAUSE 24
 
All instruction books, drawings, plans and manuals, on board or ashore in owners/managers office that are in Sellers possession are to be delivered to the Buyers except ISM manuals and ship security plan. The Sellers to forward office set as soon as possible after delivery to the Buyer’s office. All forwarding costs to be for Buyers account.

CLAUSE 25
 
This agreement is one of the “MOAs” referred to and defined in (i) that certain Supplemental Agreement dated the date hereof and executed and delivered concurrently herewith by and among Buyers, Star Maritime as the 100pct parent of the Buyers, and TMT, the 100pct parent of the Sellers and is incorporated herein by reference, and (ii) the Master Agreement dated the date hereof and executed and delivered concurrently herewith by TMT, Buyers and Star Maritime, and is incorporated by reference. If there is any inconsistency between the terms of this agreement and the terms of said Supplemental Agreement and/or said Master Agreement, the terms of said Supplemental Agreement and said Master Agreement shall control.


THE SELLERS
THE BUYERS
   
/s/ Nobu Su
/s/ Prokopios Tsirigakis
____________________
_____________________
 

Appendix B
 

MEMORANDUM OF AGREEMENT
 
Dated: January 12, 2007
Norwegian Shipbroker’s Association’s Memorandum of Agreement for sale and purchase of ships. Adopted by The Baltic and International Maritime Council (BIMCO) in 1956.
Code-name
SALEFORM 1993
Revised 1966, 1983 and 1986/87.
 
B Duckling Corporation, Panama
hereinafter called the Sellers, have agreed to sell, and Star Bulk Carriers Corp., Majuro - Marshall Islands or nominee
 
hereinafter called the Buyers, have agreed to buy-
 
Name: B. DUCKLING
 
Classification Society/Class: BUREAU VERITAS
 
Built: 1993     By: STOCNIA GDYNIA S.A., POLAND
 
Flag: PANAMA     Place of Registration: PANAMA
 
Call Sign: 3EAF9     Grt/Nrt: 91,642/50,709
 
Register Number IMO Number: 8800406
 
hereinafter called the Vessel, on the following terms and conditions:
 
Definitions
 
"Banking days" are days on which banks are open both in the country of the currency stipulated for the Purchase Price in Clause 1 and in the place of closing stipulated in Clause 8.
 
"In writing" or "written" means a letter handed over from the Sellers to the Buyers or vice versa, a registered letter, telex, telefax or other modern form of written communication.
 
"Classification Society" or "Class" means the Society referred to in line 4.
 
1.
Purchase Price USD 61,375,559.11
 
2.
Deposit
 
As security for the correct fulfilment of this Agreement the Buyers shall pay a deposit of 10 % (ten per cent) of the Purchase Price within ___________ banking days from the date of this Agreement. This deposit be placed with _______________ and held by them in a joint account for the Sellers and the Buyers, to be released in accordance with joint written instructions of the Sellers and the Buyers. Interest, if any, to be credited to the Buyers. Any fee charged for holding the said deposit shall be borne equally by the Sellers and the Buyers.
 
3.
Payment
 
The-said Purchase Price shall be paid in full free of bank charges to _______________ on delivery of the Vessel, but not later than 3 banking days after the Vessel is in every respect physically ready for delivery in accordance with the terms and conditions of this Agreement and Notice of Readiness has been given in accordance with Clause 5. The Purchase Price shall be paid as provided in the Supplemental Agreement referenced in Clause 25.
 

 
4.
Inspections
 
a)*
The Buyers have inspected and accepted the Vessel's classification records. The Buyers have also inspected the Vessel at/in _____________ on _____________ and have accepted the Vessel following this inspection and the sale is outright and definite, subject only to the terms and conditions of this Agreement.
 
b)*
The Buyers shall have the right to inspect the Vessel and Vessel's classification records and declareat a suitable place at the Buyers' option. However these inspections are not a subject and once the subjects stipulated in clause 18, are lifted the sale becomes outright and definite, subject to the provisons of the Supplemental Agreement referenced in Clause 25. whether same are accepted or not within
 
The Sellers shall provide for inspection of the Vessel at/in (to be advised by Sellers)
 
The Buyers undertake the inspection without undue delay to the Vessel. Should the Buyers cause undue delay they shall compensate the Sellers for the losses thereby incurred. The Buyers shall inspect the Vessel without opening up and without cost to the Sellers. During the inspection, the Vessel's deck, instruction books, maintenance records, and engine log books asavailable on board shall be made available for _____________________ examination by the Buyers. If the Vessel is accepted after such inspection, the sale shall become outright and definite, subject only to the terms and conditions of this Agreement, provided the Sellers receive written notice of acceptance from the Buyers within 72 hours after completion of such inspection.

Should notice of acceptance of the Vessel's classification records and of the Vessel not be received by the Sellers as aforesaid, the deposit together with interest earned shall be released immediately to the Buyers, whereafter this Agreement shall be null and void.
 
*
4 a) and 4b) are alternatives; delete whichever is not applicable. In the absence of deletions, alternative 4a) to apply.
 
5.
Notices, time and place of delivery
 
a)
The Sellers shall keep the Buyers well informed of the Vessel's itinerary and shall provide the Buyers with 20, 15, and 7, 5, 2 days approximate and 1 definite notice of the estimated time of arrival at the ____________________________ intended place of drydocking/underwater inspection/delivery. When the Vessel is at the place of delivery and in every respect physically ready for delivery in accordance with this Agreement, the Sellers shall give the Buyers a written Notice of Readiness for delivery.
 
b)
The Vessel shall be delivered and taken over safely afloat at a safe and accessible berth or  anchorage at/ina port worldwide (range/s to be advised) _______________________________ in the Sellers' option.
 
Expected time of delivery: as soon as practically possible following the Effective Date of the Merger (as defined in the Supplemental agreement referenced in Clause 25) but not later than the last discharging port of the last laden voyage
 
Date of cancelling (see Clauses 5 c), 6 b) (iii) and 14):as per Supplemental Agreement referenced in Clause 25
 
c)
If the Sellers anticipate that, notwithstanding the exercise of due diligence by them, the Vessel will not be ready for delivery by the cancelling date they may notify the Buyers in writing stating the date when they anticipate that the Vessel will be ready for delivery and propose a new cancelling date. Upon receipt of such notification the Buyers shall have the option of either cancelling this Agreement in accordance with Clause 14 within 7 running days of receipt of the notice or of accepting the now date as the new cancelling date. If the Buyers have not declared their option within 7 running days of receipt of the Sellers' notification or if the Buyers accept the new date, the date proposed in the Sellers' notification shall be deemed to be the new cancelling date and shall be substituted for the cancelling date stipulated in line 61.



If this Agreement is maintained with the new cancelling date all other terms and conditions hereof including those contained in Clauses 5 a) and 5 c) shall remain unaltered and in full force and effect. Cancellation or failure to cancel shall be entirely without prejudice to any claim for damages the Buyers may have under Clause 14 for the Vessel not being ready by the original cancelling date.
 
d)
Should the Vessel become an actual, constructive or compromised total loss before delivery the deposit together with interest earned shall be released immediately to the Buyers whereafter this Agreement shall be null and void.
 
6.
Drydocking/Divers Inspection  See Clause 19
 
a)**
The Sellers shall place the Vessel in drydock at the port of delivery for inspection by the Classification Society of the Vessel's underwater parts below the deepest load line, the extent of the inspection being in accordance with the Classification Society's rules. If the rudder, propeller, bottom or other underwater parts below the deepest load line are found broken, damaged or defective so as to affect the Vessel's class, such defects shall be made good at the Sellers' expense to the satisfaction of the Classification Society without condition/recommendation*.
 
b)**
(i) The Vessel is to be delivered without drydocking. However, the Buyers shall have the right at their expense to arrange for an underwater inspection by a diver approved by the Classification Society prior to the delivery of the Vessel. The Sellers shall at their cost make the Vessel available for such inspection. The extent of the inspection and the conditions under which it is performed shall be to the satisfaction of the Classification Society. If the conditions at the port of delivery are unsuitable for such inspection, the Sellers shall make the Vessel available at a suitable alternative place near to the delivery port.
 
(ii) If the rudder, propeller, bottom or other underwater parts below the deepest load line are found broken, damaged or defective so as to affect the Vessel’s class, then unless repairs can be carried out afloat to the satisfaction of the Classification Society, the Sellers shall arrange for the Vessel to be drydocked at their expense for inspection by the Classification Society of the Vessel's underwater parts below the deepest load line, the extent of the inspection being in accordance with the Classification Society's rules. If the rudder, propeller, bottom or other underwater parts below the deepest load line are found broken, damaged or defective so as to affect the Vessel's class, such defects shall be made good by the Sellers at their expense to the satisfaction of the Classification Society without condition/recommendation*. In such event the Sellers are to pay also for the cost of the underwater inspection and the Classification Society's attendance.
 
(iii) If the Vessel is to be drydockod pursuant to Clause 6 b) (ii) and no suitable dry docking facilities are available at the port of delivery, the Sellers shall take the Vessel to a port where suitable drydocking facilities are available, whether within or outside the delivery range as per Clause 5 b). Once drydocking has taken place the Sellers shall deliver the Vessel at a port within the delivery range as per Clause 5 b) which shall, for the purpose of this Clause, become the new port of delivery. In such event the cancelling date provided for in Clause 5 b) shall be extended by the additional time required for the drydocking and extra steaming, but limited to a maximum of 14 running days.
 
c)
If the Vessel is drydocked pursuant to Clause 6 a) or 6 b) above
 
(i) the Classification Society may require survey of the tailshaft system, the extent of the survey being to the satisfaction of the Classification surveyor. If such survey is not required by the Classification Society, the Buyers shall have the right to require the tailshaft to be drawn and surveyed by the Classification Society, the extent of the survey being in accordance with the Classification Society's rules for tailshaft survey and consistent with the current stage of the Vessel's survey cycle. The Buyers shall declare whether they require the tailshaft to be drawn and surveyed not later than by the completion of the inspection by the Classification Society. The drawing and refitting of the tailshaft shall be arranged by the Sellers. Should any parts of the tailshaft system be condemned or found defective so as to affect the Vessel's class, those parts shall be renewed or made good at the Sellers' expense to the satisfaction of the Classification Society without condition/recommendation*.
 
(ii) the expenses relating to the survey of the tailshaft system shall be borne by the Buyers unless the Classification Society requires such survey to be carried out, in which case the Sellers shall pay those expenses. The Sellers shall also pay the expenses if the Buyers require the survey and parts of the system are condemned or found defective or broken so as to affect the Vessel's class*.
 

 
 
(iii) the expenses in connection with putting the Vessel in and taking her out of drydock, including the drydock dues and the Classification Society's fees shall be paid by the Sellers if the Classification Society issues any condition/recommendation* as a result of the survey or if it requires survey of the tailshaft system. In all other cases the Buyers shall pay the aforesaid expenses, dues and fees.
 
(iv) the Buyers' representative shall have the right to be present in the drydock, but without interfering with the work or decisions of the Classification surveyor.
 
(v) the Buyers shall have the right to have the underwater parts of the Vessel cleaned and painted at their risk and expense without interfering with the Sellers' or the Classification surveyor's work, if any, and without affecting the Vessel's timely delivery. If, however, the Buyers' work in drydock is still in progress when the Sellers have completed the work which the Sellers are required to do, the additional docking time needed to complete the Buyers' work shall be for the Buyers' risk and expense. In the event that the Buyers' work requires such additional time, the Sellers may upon completion of the Sellers' work tender Notice of Readiness for delivery whilst the Vessel is still in drydock and the Buyers shall be obliged to take delivery in accordance with Clause 3, whether the Vessel is in drydock or not and irrespective of Clause 5 b).
 
*
Notes, if any, in the surveyor’s report which are accepted by the Classification Society without condition/recommendation are not to be taken into account.
 
**
6 a) and 6 b) are alternatives; delete whichever is not applicable. In the absence of deletions, alternative 6 a) to apply.
 
7.
Spares/bunkers, etc.

The Sellers shall deliver the Vessel to the Buyers with everything belonging to her on board and on shore. All spare parts and spare equipment including spare tail-end shaft(s) and/or spare propeller(s)/propeller blade(s), if any, belonging to the Vessel at the time of inspection used or unused, whether on board or not shall become the Buyers' property, but spares on order are to be excluded. Forwarding charges, if any, shall be for the Buyers' account. The Sellers are not required to replace spare parts including spare tail-end shaft(s) and spare propeller(s)/propeller blade(s) which are taken out of spare and used as replacement prior to delivery, but the replaced items shall be the property of the Buyers. The radio installation and navigational equipment shall be included in the sale without extra payment if they are the property of the Sellers. Unused stores and provisions shall be included in the sale and be taken over by the Buyers without extra payment.

The Sellers have the right to take ashore crockery, plates, cutlery, linen and other articles bearing the Sellers' flag or name, provided they replace same with similar unmarked items. Library, forms, etc., exclusively for use in the Sellers' vessel(s), shall be excluded without compensation. Captain's, Officers' and Crew's personal belongings including the slop chest are to be excluded from the sale, as well as the following additional items (including items on hire): To Be Advised 

The Buyers shall take over the remaining bunkers (if same are property of the Sellers) and unused lubricating oils in storage tanks and _______________________________ sealed drums and pay the current net market price (excluding barging expenses) at the port and date of delivery of the Vessel.See Clause 20
 
Payment under this Clause shall be made at the same time and place and in the same currency as the Purchase Price.
 
8.
Documentation
 
The place of closing: New York, USA
 
In exchange for payment of the Purchase Price the Sellers shall furnish the Buyers with delivery documents, namely:
 

 
a)
Legal Bill of Sale in a form recordable in Marshall Islands(the country in which the Buyers are to register the Vessel), warranting that the Vessel is free from all encumbrances, mortgages and maritime liens or any other debts or claims whatsoever, duly notarially attested and legalized by the consul of such country or other competent authority.
 
b)
Current Certificate of Ownership issued by the competent authorities of the flag state of the Vessel.
 
c)
Confirmation of Class issued within 72 hours3 working days prior to delivery.
 
d)
Current Certificate issued by the competent authorities stating that the Vessel is free from registered encumbrances.
 
e)
Certificate of Deletion of the Vessel from the Vessel's registry or other official evidence of deletion appropriate to the Vessel's registry at the time of delivery, or, in the event that the registry does not as a matter of practice issue such documentation immediately, a written undertaking by the Sellers to effect deletion from the Vessel's registry forthwith and furnish a Certificate or other official evidence of deletion to the Buyers promptly and latest within 4 (four) weeks after the Purchase Price has been paid and the Vessel has been delivered.
 
f)
Any such additional documents as may reasonably be required by the competent authorities for the purpose of registering the Vessel, provided the Buyers notify the Sellers of any such documents as soon as possible after the date of this Agreement.
See Clause 22
 
At the time of delivery the Buyers and Sellers shall sign and deliver to each other a Protocol of Delivery and Acceptance confirming the date and time of delivery of the Vessel from the Sellers to the Buyers.
 
At the time of delivery the Sellers shall hand to the Buyers the classification certificate(s) as well as all plans, instruction books, maintenance records etc., which are on board the Vessel. Other certificates which are on board the Vessel shall also _______________________________________________ be handed over to the Buyers unless the Sellers are required to retain same, in which case the Buyers to have the right to take copies. Other technical documentation which may be in the Sellers' possession shall be promptly forwarded to the Buyers at their expense, if they so request. The Sellers may keep the Vessel's log books but the Buyers to have the right to take copies of same.
 
9.
Encumbrances
 
The Sellers warrant that the Vessel, at the time of delivery, is free from all charters(other than term employment/charters contemplated by the Supplemental Agreement referenced in Clause 25), encumbrances, ________________________________________________________________________ mortgages and maritime liens or any other debts whatsoever. The Sellers hereby undertake to indemnify the Buyers against all consequences of claims made against the Vessel which have been incurred prior to the time of delivery. The Vessel on delivery to be delivered free of cargo /cargo residues, and free of any dunnage.
 
10.
Taxes, etc.
 
Any taxes, fees and expenses in connection with the purchase and registration under the Buyers' flag shall be for the Buyers' account, whereas similar charges in connection with the closing of the Sellers' register shall be for the Sellers' account.
 
11.
Condition on delivery
 
The Vessel with everything belonging to her shall be at the Sellers' risk and expense until she is delivered to the Buyers, but subject to the terms and conditions of this Agreement she shall be delivered and taken over as she was at the time of inspection, fair wear and tear excepted. However, the Vessel shall be delivered with her class maintained without condition/recommendation*, free of average damage affecting the Vessel's class, and with her classification certificates and International/national certificates and surveys, as well as all other certificates the Vessel had at the time of agreement inspection, valid and __________________________________________________ unextended without condition/recommendation* by Class or the relevant authorities for a minimum of 1 month from at the time of ________________________________ delivery.


 
"Inspection" in this Clause 11 and in Clause 7, Line 157, shall mean the Buyers' inspection according to Clause 4 a) or 4 b), if _____________________________________ applicable, or the Buyers' inspection prior to the signing of this Agreement. If the Vessel is taken over without inspection, the date of this Agreement shall be the relevant date.
 
*
Notes, if any, in the surveyor's report which are accepted by the Classification Society without condition/recommendation are not to be taken into account.
 
12.
Name/markings
 
Upon delivery the Buyers undertake to change the name of the Vessel and alter funnel markings.
 
13.
Buyers' default
 
Should the deposit not be paid in accordance with Clause 2, the Sellers have the right to cancel this Agreement, and they shall be entitled-to claim compensation for their losses and for all expense incurred together with interest.
 
Should the Purchase Price not be paid in accordance with Clause 3, the Sellers have the right to cancel the Agreement, in which case the deposit together with interest earned shall be released to the Sellers. If the deposit does not cover their loss, the Sellers shall be entitled to claim further compensation for their losses and for all expenses incurred together with interest.
 
14.
Sellers' default as per Supplemental Agreement referenced in Clause 25
 
Should the Sellers fail to give Notice of Readiness in accordance with Clause 5 a) or fail to be ready to validly complete a legal transfer by the date stipulated in line 61 the Buyers shall have the option of cancelling this Agreement provided always that the Sellers shall be granted a maximum of 3 banking days after Notice of Readiness has been given to make arrangements for the documentation set out in Clause 8. If after Notice of Readiness has been given but before the Buyers have taken delivery, the Vessel ceases to be physically ready for delivery and is not made physically ready again in every respect by the date stipulated in line 61 and new Notice of Readiness given, the Buyer shall retain their option to cancel. In the event that the Buyers elect to cancel this Agreement the deposit together with interest earned shall be released to them immediately.

Should the Sellers fail to give Notice of Readiness by the date stipulated in line 61 or fail to be ready to validly complete a legal transfer as aforesaid they shall make duo compensation to the Buyers for their loss and for all expenses together with interest if their failure is duo to proven negligence and whether or not the Buyers cancel this Agreement.
 
15.
Buyers' representatives See Clause 21
 
After this Agreement has been signed by both parties and the deposit has been lodged, the Buyers have the right to place two representatives on board the Vessel at their solo risk and expense upon arrival at______________ on or about _________________________ These representatives are on board for the purpose of familiarization and in the capacity of observers only, and they shall not interfere in any respect with the operation of the Vessel. The Buyers' representatives shall sign the Sellers' letter of indemnity prior to their embarkation.
 
16.
Arbitration
 
a)*
This Agreement shall be governed by and construed in accordance with English law and any dispute arising out of this Agreement shall be referred to arbitration in London in accordance with the Arbitration Acts 1950 and 1979 or any statutory modification or re-enactment thereof for the time being in force, one arbitrator being appointed by each party. On the receipt by one party of the nomination in writing of the other party's arbitrator, that party shall appoint their arbitrator within fourteen days, failing which the decision of the single arbitrator appointed shall apply. If two arbitrators properly appointed shall not agree they shall appoint an umpire whose decision shall be final.
 

 
b)*
This Agreement shall be governed by and construed in accordance with Title 9 of the United States Code and the Law of the State of New York and should any dispute arise out of this Agreement, the matter in dispute shall be referred to three persons at New York, one to be appointed by each of the parties hereto, and the third by the two so chosen; their decision or that of any two of them shall be final, and for purpose of enforcing any award, this Agreement may be made a rule of the Court.

The proceedings shall be conducted in accordance with the rules of the Society of Maritime Arbitrators, Inc. New York.
 
c)*
Any dispute arising out of this Agreement shall be referred to arbitration at _______________________ subject to the procedures applicable there. The laws of ______________ shall govern this Agreement.
 
*
16 a), 16 b) and 16 c) are alternatives; delete whichever is not applicable. In the absence of deletions, alternative 16 a) to apply.
 
Clauses 17-25 both inclusive are deemed are part of this agreement
 
This Charter Party is a computer generated copy of the "SALEFORM 1993" form printed by authority of Norwegian Shipbrokers' Association using software which is the copyright of Strategic Software Ltd. Any insertion or deletion to the form must be clearly visible. In the event of any modification made to the preprinted text of this document which is not clearly visible, the text of the original approved document shall apply. Norwegian Shipbrokers' Association and Strategic Software Ltd. assume no responsibility for any loss or damage caused as a result of discrepancies between the original approved document and this document.
 

 
ADDITIONAL CLAUSES
TO THE MEMORANDUM OF AGREEMENT - SALE FORM 1993
DATED JANUARY 12, 2007 FOR M.V. 'B DUCKLING' (THE VESSEL)
BETWEEN B DUCKLING CORPORATION. PANAMA (THE SELLERS)
AND STAR BULK CARRIERS CORP. MARSHALL ISLANDS OR
NOMINEE (THE BUYERS)
 
CLAUSE 17
 
This sale is part of the sale and delivery of the following additional Motor Vessels:
 
M.V. "A Duckling"
M.V. "C Duckling"
M.V. "F Duckling"
M.V. "G Duckling"
M.V. "I Duckling"
M.V. "J Duckling"
M.V. "Mommy Duckling"
 
registered in the respective ownership of the following Owners:
 
A Duckling Corporation, Panama
C Duckling Corporation, Panama
F Duckling Corporation, Panama
G Duckling Corporation, Panama
I Duckling Corporation, Panama
J Duckling Corporation, Panama
Mommy Management Corp., Panama
 
and all ultimately beneficially owned by TMT Co., Ltd., Taiwan ("TMT"). In the event that one or more of the above vessels are not delivered pursuant to their respective MOA's for any reason whatsoever, TMT hereby agrees and assumes the obligation to substitute the non-delivered vessel(s) with replacement tonnage pursuant and subject to the terms of the Supplemental Agreement referenced in Clause 25.
 
CLAUSE 18
 
This sale is subject to:
 
i)
STAR MARITIME ACQUISITION CORP. Delaware ("Star Maritime") a listed company in the AMEX being the parent company of the Buyers filing a definitive proxy/registration statement (the "Registration Statement") with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the "SEC") and such Registration Statement being declared effective by the SEC.


 
ii)
Star Maritime obtaining the requisite approval of its stockholders for the Merger (as defined in Supplemental Agreement referenced in Clause 25) and the sale of the vessels provided for in the Supplemental Agreement referenced in Clause 25 at a duly convened stockholders' meeting.
 
CLAUSE 19
 
No dry-docking / however the Buyers have the right at Buyers' expense to carry out an under-water (defined as 'parts below the sea water line at time of divers inspection') inspection prior to or at the delivery port and the Sellers shall make the vessel available for such under-water inspection. Inspection of underwater parts shall be carried out by divers approved by the class with the presence of class surveyor and the Sellers/Buyers representatives. Such diver inspection shall be carried out in a manner acceptable to class surveyor. If the conditions at the port of delivery are unsuitable for such inspection, the Sellers shall make the Vessel available at a suitable alternative place near the delivery port.
 
In the event of any damage/s being found which lead to a recommendation by the classification society and immediate repairs are required, the Sellers shall then dry-dock the Vessel in accordance with clause 6 of the Norwegian Sale Form 1993, and Sellers shall repair same to class satisfaction. Cancelling date to be extended accordingly.
 
If damage/s are found which lead to a recommendation by the classification society, repair/s of which maybe be carried out by the Buyers at a later stage, as per classification society recommendation, then in lieu of Buyers taking delivery of the Vessel with said recommendation/s the Sellers shall pay to the Buyers the estimated repairing direct cost - this amount will be deducted from the purchase price on delivery.
 
This estimated repairing direct cost shall be the average cost of 2 quotations from reputable yards/repair shops at or near the delivery port, 1 obtained by Buyers and 1 obtained by Sellers determined in accordance with the cost of such repairs prevailing at the time of delivery of the Vessel, for repair works only without dry-docking costs and without costs of possible time lost, and in any case for the direct cost/s only.
 
It is understood that class shall be the sole arbiter in any matter under this Clause 19 affecting the Vessel's class.
 
The costs of class surveyor's fee and diver inspection will be for the Buyers' account.
 
CLAUSE 20
 
The Buyers are to pay extra for unused/unbroached lubricating oils in drums and designated storage tanks 'remaining on board' as per actual cost evidenced by net invoice prices including discounts. Also extra payment for bunkers 'remaining on board' at the Sellers' last paid prices (either bought in the open market or paid to last charterers).
 

 
CLAUSE 21
 
As from the Effective Date of Merger (as defined in the Supplemental Agreement referenced in Clause 25) Buyers shall have the right to place onboard up to a maximum of three (3) representatives until delivery as observers for familiarisation purposes only without interference to the Vessel's operation at Buyer's risk and expense. Representatives are to sign Sellers' indemnity form. Sellers shall assist where necessary in the application for visas for Buyer's ongoing representatives. Upon Vessel's arrival at the delivery port Buyers shall have the right to place on board three (3) more representatives on a daily basis up until delivery. Buyers representatives to have the right to communicate with their office / managers via the Vessel's communication means always at Buyers' cost. The Buyers' representatives shall have full access to Vessel's all non-private spaces, as well as to instruction books, plans, certificates, records, documents, plans, drawings and shall have the right to take photocopies of same but should not interfere with the Vessel's cargo discharge operations, if any.
 
CLAUSE 22
 
Sellers and Buyers to supply documentation which may be reasonably required and to be mutually agreed for the legal transfer of the Vessel and for her Marshall Islands registration under new flag and ownership (such list to form an addendum to the MOA).
 
At the time of delivery, in addition to other documents to be agreed per this clause, Buyers shall furnish Sellers with the following delivery documents:
 
(i)
Secretary's Certificate of Buyers authorizing this MOA, the Supplemental Agreement and the Novation Agreement in respect of the charter of the Vessel, together with incumbency certificates; and
 
(ii)
Secretary's Certificate of each of Star Maritime and Star Bulk authorizing the Master Agreement, the Supplemental Agreement and this MOA, together with incumbency certificates.
 
At the time of delivery, in addition to other documents to be agreed per this clause, Sellers shall furnish Buyers with the following delivery documents:
 
(i)
Secretary's Certificate of Sellers authorizing this MOA, the Supplemental Agreement and the Novation Agreement in respect of the charter of the Vessel, together with incumbency certificates; and
 
(ii)
Secretary's Certificate of each of TMT authorizing the Master Agreement, the Supplemental Agreement and this MOA, together with incumbency certificates.
 
CLAUSE 23
 
Sellers warrant that on the date hereof and on the date of closing, the Vessel shall be entitled to trade worldwide within Institute Warranty Limits without restriction on limitation.
 

 
CLAUSE 24
 
All instruction books, drawings, plans and manuals, on board or ashore in owners/managers office that are in Sellers possession are to be delivered to the Buyers except ISM manuals and ship security plan. The Sellers to forward office set as soon as possible after delivery to the Buyer’s office. All forwarding costs to be for Buyers account.

CLAUSE 25
 
This agreement is one of the “MOAs” referred to and defined in (i) that certain Supplemental Agreement dated the date hereof and executed and delivered concurrently herewith by and among Buyers, Star Maritime as the 100pct parent of the Buyers, and TMT, the 100pct parent of the Sellers and is incorporated herein by reference, and (ii) the Master Agreement dated the date hereof and executed and delivered concurrently herewith by TMT, Buyers and Star Maritime, and is incorporated by reference. If there is any inconsistency between the terms of this agreement and the terms of said Supplemental Agreement and/or said Master Agreement, the terms of said Supplemental Agreement and said Master Agreement shall control.


THE SELLERS
THE BUYERS
   
/s/ Nobu Su
/s/ Prokopios Tsirigakis
____________________
_____________________
 

Appendix C

 
MEMORANDUM OF AGREEMENT
 
Dated: January 12, 2007
Norwegian Shipbrokers’ Association’s Memorandum of Agreement for sale and purchase of ship. Adopted by The Baltic and International Maritime Council (BIMCO)in 1956.
Code-name
SALEFORM 1993
Revised 1966,1983 and 1986/87.
 
C Duckling Corporation, Panama
hereinafter called the Sellers, have agreed to sell, and Star Bulk Carriers Corp., Majuro - Marshall Islands or nominee
 
hereinafter called the Buyers, have agreed to buy-
 
Name: C.DUCKLING 
 
Classification Society/Class: BUREAU VERITAS 
 
Built: 2002    By: OSHIMA SHIPBUILDING CO. LTD, NAGASAKI- JAPAN 
 
Flag: PANAMA    Place of Registration: PANAMA 
 
Call Sign: HOOR    Grt/Nrt: 29,295/17,592 
 
Register Number IMO Number: 9249300 
 
hereinafter called the Vessel, on the following terms and conditions:
 
Definitions
 
"Banking days" are days on which banks are open both in the country of the currency  stipulated for the Purchase Price in Clause 1 and in the place of closing stipulated in Clause 8.
 
"In writing" or "written" means a letter handed over from the Sellers to the Buyers or vice versa,  a registered letter, telex, telefax or other modern form of written communication.
 
"Classification Society" or "Class" means the Society referred to in line 4.
 
1.
Purchase Price USD 43,474,354.37
 
2.
Deposit
 
As security for the correct fulfilment of this Agreement the Buyers shall pay a deposit of 10 % (ton per cent) of the Purchase Price within _______ banking days from the date of this Agreement. This deposit shall be placed with _______________ and held by them in a joint account for the Sellers and the Buyers, to be released in accordance with joint written instructions of the Sellers and the Buyers. Interest, if any, to be credited to the Buyers. Any fee charged for holding the said deposit shall be borne equally by the Sellers and the Buyers.
 
3.
Payment
 
The said Purchase Price shall be paid in full free of bank charges to _______________on delivery of the Vessel, but not later than 3 banking days after the Vessel is in every respect physically ready for delivery in accordance with the terms and conditions of this Agreement and Notice of Readiness has been given in accordance with Clause 5. The Purchase Price shall be paid as provided in the Supplemental Agreement referenced in Clause 25.
 

 
4.
Inspections
 
a)*
The Buyers have inspected and accepted the Vessel's classification records. The Buyers have also inspected the Vessel at/in _______________ on _______________ and have accepted the Vessel following this inspection and the sale is outright and definite, subject only to the terms and conditions of this Agreement.
 
b)*
The Buyers shall have the right to inspect the Vessel and Vessel's classification records and declare at a suitable place at the Buyers' option. However these inspections are not a subject and once the subjects stipulated in clause 18 are lifted the sale becomes outright and definite, subject to the provisions of the Supplemental Agreement referenced in Clause 25. whether same are accepted or not within
 
The Sellers shall provide for inspection of the Vessel at/in (to be advised by Sellers)
 
The Buyers shall undertake the inspection without undue delay to the Vessel. Should the Buyers cause undue delay they shall compensate the Sellers for the losses thereby incurred. The Buyers shall inspect the Vessel without opening up and without cost to the Sellers. During the inspection, the Vessel's deck, instuction books, maintenance records, and engine log books as available on board shall be made available for _______________ examination by the Buyers. If the Vessel is accepted after such inspection, the sale shall become outright and definite, subject only to the terms and conditions of this Agreement, provided the Sellers receive written notice of acceptance from the Buyers within 72 hours after completion of such inspection.
 
Should notice of acceptance of the Vessel's classification records and of the Vessel not be received by the Sellers as aforesaid, the deposit together with interest earned shall be released immediately to the Buyers, whereafter this Agreement shall be null and void.

*
4 a) and 4b) are alternatives; delete whichever is not applicable. In the absence of deletions, alternative 4a) to apply.
 
5.
Notices, time and place of delivery 
 
a)
The Sellers shall keep the Buyers well informed of the Vessel's itinerary and shall provide the Buyers with 20 , 15,and 7, 5, 2 days approximate and 1 definite notice of the estimated time of arrival at the _____________________ intended place of drydocking/underwater inspection/delivery. When the Vessel is at the place of delivery and in every respect physically ready for delivery in accordance with this Agreement, the Sellers shall give the Buyers a written Notice of Readiness for delivery.
 
b)
The Vessel shall be delivered and taken over safely afloat at a safe and accessible berth or anchorage at/in a port worldwide (range/s to be advised) _____________ in the Sellers' option.
 
Expected time of delivery: as soon as practically possible following the Effective Date of the Merger (as defined in the Supplemental Agreement referenced in Clause 25) but not later than the last discharging port of the last laden voyage
 
Date of cancelling (see Clauses 5 c), 6 b) (iii) and 14):as per Supplemental Agreement referenced in Clause 25
 
c)
If the Sellers anticipate that, notwithstanding the exercise of due diligence by them, the  Vessel will not be ready for delivery by the cancelling date they may notify the Buyers in  writing stating the date when they anticipate that the Vessel will be ready for delivery and  propose a new cancelling date. Upon receipt of such notification the Buyers shall have the  option of either cancelling this Agreement in accordance with Clause 14 within 7 running  days of receipt of the notice or of accepting the new date as the new cancelling date. If the  Buyers have not declared their option within 7 running days of receipt of the Sellers'  notification or if the Buyers accept the new date, the date proposed in the Sellers' notification  shall be deemed to be the new cancelling date and shall be stipulated for the cancelling  date stipulated in line 61.



If this Agreement is maintained with the new cancelling date all other terms and conditions hereof including those contained in Clauses 5 a) and 5 c) shall remain unaltered and in full  force and effect. Cancellation or failure to cancel shall be entirely without prejudice to any  claim for damages the Buyers may have under Clause 14 for the Vessel not being ready by the original cancelling date.

d)
Should the Vessel become an actual, constructive or compromised total lose before delivery  the deposit together with interest earned shall be released immediately to the Buyers  whereafter this Agreement shall be null and void.

6.
Drydocking/Divers Inspection See Clause 19

a)**
The Sellers shall place the Vessel in drydock at the port of delivery for inspection by the  Classification Society of the Vessel’s underwater parts below the deepest load line, the  extent of the inspection being in accordance with the Classification Society's rules. If the rudder, propeller, bottom or other underwater parts below the deepest load line are found  broken, damaged or defective so as to affect the Vessel’s class, such defects shall be made  good at the Sellers’ expense to the satisfaction of the Classification Society without  condition/recommendation*.

b)**
(i) The Vessel is to be delivered without drydocking. However, the Buyers shall  have the right at their expense to arrange for an underwater inspection by a diver approved  by the Classification Society prior to the delivery of the Vessel. The Sellers shall at their  cost make the Vessel available for such inspection. The extent of the inspection and the conditions under which it is performed shall be to the satisfaction of the Classification Society. If the conditions at the part of delivery are unsuitable for such inspection, the Sellers shall make the Vessel available at a suitable alternative place near to the delivery port.

(ii) If the rudder, propeller, bottom or other underwater parts below the deepest load line are found broken, damaged or defective so as to affect the Vessel’s class, then unless repairs can be carried out afloat to the satisfaction of the Classification Society, the Sellers shall arrange for the Vessel to be drydocked at their expense for inspection by the Classification Society of the Vessel’s underwater parts below the deepest load line, the extent of the inspection being in accordance with the Classification Society's rules. If the  rudder, propeller, bottom or other underwater parts below the deepest load line are found  broken, damaged or defective so as to affect the Vessel’s class, such defects shall be made good by the Sellers at their expense to the satisfaction of the Classification Society  without condition/recommendation*. In such event the Sellers are to pay also for the cost of  the underwater inspection and the Classification Society’s attendance.

(iii) If the Vessel is to be drydocked pursuant to Clause 6 b) (ii) and no suitable dry  docking facilities are available at the port of delivery, the Sellers shall take the Vessel  to a port where suitable drydocking facilities are available, whether within or outside the  delivery range as per Clause 5 b). Once drydocking has taken place the Sellers shall deliver  the Vessel at a port within the delivery range as per Clause 5 b) which shall, for the  purpose of this Clause, become the new port of delivery. In such event the cancelling date  provided for in Clause 5 b) shall be extended by the additional time required for the  drydocking and extra steaming, but limited to a maximum of 14 running days.

c)
If the Vessel is drydocked pursuant to Clause 6 a) or 6 b) above

(i) the Classification Society may require survey of the tailshaft system, the extent of the survey being to the satisfaction of the Classification surveyor. If such survey is not  required by the Classification Society, the Buyers shall have the right to require the tailshaft  to be drawn and surveyed by the Classification Society, the extent of the survey being in  accordance with the Classification Society's rules for tailshaft survey and consistent with  the current stage of the Vessel's survey cycle. The Buyers shall declare whether they  require the tailshaft to be drawn and surveyed not later than by the completion of the  inspection by the Classification Society. The drawing and refitting of the tailshaft shall be  arranged by the Sellers. Should any parts of the tailshaft system be condemned or found  defective so as to affect the Vessel’s class, those parts shall be renewed or made good at  the Sellers expense to the satisfaction of the Classification Society without  condition/recommendation*.

(ii) the expenses relating to the survey of the tailshaft system shall be borne by the Buyers unless the Classification Society requires such survey to be carried out, in which case the Sellers shall pay these expenses. The Sellers shall also pay the expenses if the Buyers require the survey and parts of the system are condemned or found defective  or broken so as to affect the Vessel’s class*. 
 


iii) the expanses in connection with putting the Vessel in and taking her out of  drydock, including the drydock dues and the Classification Society's fees shall be paid by  the Sellers if the Classification Society issues any condition/recommendation* as a result  of the survey or if it requires survey of the tailshaft system. In all other cases the Buyers  shall pay the aforesaid expenses, dues and fees.

iv) the Buyers' representative shall have the right to be present in the drydock, but without interfering with the work or decisions of the Classification surveyor.

{v) the Buyers shall have the right to have the underwater parts of the Vessel  cleaned and painted at their risk and expense without interfering with the Sellers' or the  Classification surveyor's work, if any, and without affecting the Vessel's timely delivery. If,  however, the Buyers' work in drydock is still in progress when the Sellers have  completed the work which the Sellers are required to do, the additional docking time  needed to complete the Buyers' work shall be for the Buyers' risk and expense. In the event that the Buyers' work requires such additional time, the Sellers may upon completion of the  Sellers' work tender Notice of Readiness for delivery whilst the Vessel is still in drydock  and the Buyers shall be obliged to take delivery in accordance with Clause 3, whether  the Vessel is in drydock or not and irrespective of Clause 5 b).

*
Notes, if any, in the surveyor's report which are accepted by the Classification Society without condition/recommendation are not to be taken into account.

**
6 a) and 6 b) are alternatives; delete whichever is not applicable. In the absence of deletions, alternative 6 a) to apply.

7.
Spares/bunkers, etc.

The Sellers shall deliver the Vessel to the Buyers with everything belonging to her on board and on  shore. All spare parts and spare equipment including spare tail-end shaft(s) and/or spare  propeller(s)/propeller blade(s), if any, belonging to the Vessel at the time of inspection used or  unused, whether on board or not shall become the Buyers' property, but spares on order are to be  excluded. Forwarding charges, if any, shall be for the Buyers' account. The Sellers are not required to  replace spare parts including spare tail-end shaft(s) and spare propeller(s)/propeller blade(s) which  are taken out of spare and used as replacement prior to delivery, but the replaced items shall be the  property of the Buyers. The radio installation and navigational equipment shall be included in the sale  without extra payment if they are the property of the Sellers. Unused stores and provisions shall be  included in the sale and be taken over by the Buyers without extra payment.

The Sellers have the right to take ashore crockery, plates, cutlery, linen and other articles bearing the  Sellers' flag or name, provided they replace same with similar unmarked items. Library, forms, etc.,  exclusively for use in the Sellers' vessel(s), shall be excluded without compensation. Captain's,  Officers' and Crew's personal belongings including the slop chest are to be excluded from the sale,  as well as the following additional items (including items on hire): To Be Advised 

The Buyers shall take over the remaining bunkers (if same are property of the Sellers) and unused lubricating oils in storage tanks and __________________ sealed drums and pay the current net market price (excluding barging expenses) at the port and date of delivery of the Vessel. See Clause 20

Payment under this Clause shall be made at the same time and place and in the same currency as the Purchase Price.

8.
Documentation

The place of closing: New York, USA

In exchange for payment of the Purchase Price the Sellers shall furnish the Buyers with delivery documents, namely:



a)
Legal Bill of Sale in a form recordable in Marshall Islands(the country in which the Buyers are to register the Vessel), warranting that the Vessel is free from all encumbrances, mortgages and maritime liens or any other debts or claims whatsoever, duly notarially attested and legalized by the consul of such country or other competent authority.

b)
Current Certificate of Ownership issued by the competent authorities of the flag state of the Vessel.

c)
Confirmation of Class issued within 72 hours 3 working days prior to delivery.
 
d)
Current Certificate issued by the competent authorities stating that the Vessel is free from registered encumbrances.
 
e)
Certificate of Deletion of the Vessel from the Vessel's registry or other official evidence of deletion appropriate to the Vessel's registry at the time of delivery, or, in the event that the registry does not as a matter of practice issue such documentation immediately, a written undertaking by the Sellers to effect deletion from the Vessel's registry forthwith and furnish a Certificate or other official evidence of deletion to the Buyers promptly and latest within 4 (four) weeks after the Purchase Price has been paid and the Vessel has been delivered.

f)
Any such additional documents as may reasonably be required by the competent authorities for the purpose of registering the Vessel, provided the Buyers notify the Sellers of any such documents as soon as possible after the date of this Agreement.
See Clause 22
 
At the time of delivery the Buyers and Sellers shall sign and deliver to each other a Protocol of  Delivery and Acceptance confirming the date and time of delivery of the Vessel from the Sellers to the  Buyers.
 
At the time of delivery the Sellers shall hand to the Buyers the classification certificate(s) as well as all plans, instruction books, maintenance records etc., which are on board the Vessel. Other certificates which are on board the Vessel shall also _____________________________________ be handed over to the Buyers unless the Sellers are required to retain same, in which case the Buyers to have the right to take copies. Other technical documentation which may be in the Sellers' possession shall be promptly forwarded to the Buyers at their expense, if they so request. The Sellers may keep the Vessel's log books but the Buyers to have the right to take copies of same.

9.
Encumbrances

The Sellers warrant that the Vessel, at the time of delivery, is free from all charters (other than term employment/charters contemplated by the Supplemental Agreement referenced in Clause 25), encumbrances, ______________________________________________ mortgages and maritime liens or any other debts whatsoever. The Sellers hereby undertake to indemnify the Buyers against all consequences of claims made against the Vessel which have been incurred prior to the time of delivery. The Vessel on delivery to be delivered free of cargo / cargo residues, and free of any dunnage.

10.
Taxes, etc.

Any taxes, fees and expenses in connection with the purchase and registration under the Buyers' flag shall be for the Buyers' account, whereas similar charges in connection with the closing of the Sellers' register shall be for the Sellers' account.

11.
Condition on delivery

The Vessel with everything belonging to her shall be at the Sellers' risk and expense until she is delivered to the Buyers, but subject to the terms and conditions of this Agreement she shall be delivered and taken over as she was at the time of inspection, fair wear and tear excepted. However, the Vessel shall be delivered with her class maintained without condition/recommendation*, free of average damage affecting the Vessel's class, and with her classification certificates and International/national certificates and surveys,as well as all other certificates the Vessel had at the time of agreement inspection, valid and ________________________________ unextended without condition/recommendation* by Class or the relevant authorities for a minimum of 1 month from at the time of ___________________________________ delivery.
 

 
"Inspection" in this Clause 11 and in Clause 7, Line 157, shall mean the Buyers' inspection according to Clause 4 a) or 4 b), if ____________________________ applicable, or the Buyers' inspection prior to the signing of this Agreement. If the Vessel is taken over without inspection, the date of this Agreement shall be the relevant date.
 
*
Notes, if any, in the surveyor's report which are accepted by the Classification Society without condition/recommendation are not to be taken into account.

12.
Name/markings

Upon delivery the Buyers undertake to change the name of the Vessel and alter funnel markings.

13.
Buyers' default

Should the deposit not be paid in accordance with Clause 2, the Sellers have the right to cancel this Agreement, and they shall be entitled to claim compensation for their losses and for all expenses incurred together with interest.

Should the Purchase Price not be paid in accordance with Clause 3, the Sellers have the right to cancel the Agreement, in which case the deposit together with interest earned shall be released to the Sellers. If the deposit does not cover their loss, the Sellers shall be entitled to claim further compensation for their losses and for all expenses incurred together with interest.

14.
Sellers' default as per Supplemental Agreement referenced in Clause 25

Should the Sellers fail to give Notice of Readiness in accordance with Clause 5 a) or fail to be ready to validly complete a legal transfer by the date stipulated in line 61 the Buyers shall have the option of cancelling this Agreement provided always that the Sellers shall be granted a  maximum of 3 banking days after Notice of Readiness has been given to make arrangement  for the documentation set out in Clause 8. If after Notice of Readiness has been given but before  the Buyers have taken delivery, the Vessel ceases to be physically ready for delivery and is not  made physically ready again in every respect by the date stipulated in line 61 and new Notice of  Readiness given, the Buyers shall retain their option to cancel. In the event that the Buyers elect  to cancel this Agreement the deposit together with interest earned shall be released to them  immediately.

Should the Sellers fail to give Notice of Readiness by the date stipulated in line 61 or fail to be ready  to validly complete a legal transfer as aforesaid they shall make due compensation to the Buyers for  their loss and for all expenses together with interest if their failure is due to proven  negligence and whether or not the Buyers cancel this Agreement.

15.
Buyers' representatives See Clause 21

After this Agreement has been signed by both parties and the deposit has been lodged, the Buyers  have the right to place two representatives on board the Vessel at their sole risk and expense upon  arrival at _____________________ on or about __________________________________________ Those representatives are on board for the purpose of familiarisation and in the capacity of  observers only, and they shall not interfere in any respect with the operation of the Vessel. The  Buyers' representatives shall sign the Sellers' letter of indemnity prior to their embarkation.

16.
Arbitration

a)*
This Agreement shall be governed by and construed in accordance with English law and  any dispute arising out of this Agreement shall be referred to arbitration in London in  accordance with the Arbitration Acts 1950 and 1979 or any statutory modification or  re-enactment thereof for the time being in force, one arbitrator being appointed by each  party. On the receipt by one party of the nomination in writing of the other party's arbitrator,  that party shall appoint their arbitrator within fourteen days, failing which the decision of the  single arbitrator appointed shall apply. If two arbitrators properly appointed shall not agree  they shall appoint an umpire whose decision shall be final.



b)*
This Agreement shall be governed by and construed in accordance with Title 9 of the  United States Code and the Law of the State of New York and should any dispute arise out of  this Agreement, the matter in dispute shall be referred to three persons at New York, one to  be appointed by each of the parties hereto, and the third by the two so chosen; their  decision or that of any two of them shall be final, and for purpose of enforcing any award, this  Agreement may be made a rule of the Court.

The proceedings shall be conducted in accordance with the rules of the Society of Maritime Arbitrators, Inc. New York.

c)*
Any dispute arising out of this Agreement shall be referred to arbitration at ______________________, subject to-the procedures applicable there. The laws of ________________ shall govern this Agreement.

*
16 a), 16 b) and 16 c) are alternatives; delete whichever is not applicable. In the absence of deletions, alternative 16 a) to apply.

Clauses 17-25 both inclusive are deemed are part of this agreement
 
This Charter Party is a computer generated copy of the "SALEFORM 1993" form printed by authority of Norwegian Shipbrokers' Association using software which is the copyright of Strategic Software Ltd. Any insertion or deletion to the form must be clearly visible. In the event of any modification made to the preprinted text of this document which is not clearly visible, the text of the original approved document shall apply. Norwegian Shipbrokers' Association and Strategic Software Ltd. assume no responsibility for any loss or damage caused as a result of discrepancies between the original approved document and this document.
 


ADDITIONAL CLAUSES
TO THE MEMORANDUM OF AGREEMENT - SALE FORM 1993
DATED JANUARY 12, 2007 FOR M.V. 'C DUCKLING' (THE VESSEL)
BETWEEN C DUCKLING CORPORATION, PANAMA (THE SELLERS)
AND STAR BULK CARRIERS CORP. MARSHALL ISLANDS OR
NOMINEE (THE BUYERS)

CLAUSE 17

This sale is part of the sale and delivery of the following additional Motor Vessels:

M.V. "A Duckling"
M.V. "B Duckling"
M.V. "F Duckling"
M.V. "G Duckling"
M.V. "I Duckling"
M.V. "J Duckling"
M.V. "Mommy Duckling"

registered in the respective ownership of the following Owners:

B Duckling Corporation, Panama
C Duckling Corporation, Panama
F Duckling Corporation, Panama
G Duckling Corporation, Panama
I Duckling Corporation, Panama
J Duckling Corporation, Panama
Mommy Management Corp., Panama

and all ultimately beneficially owned by TMT Co., Ltd., Taiwan ("TMT"). In the event that one or more of the above vessels are not delivered pursuant to their respective MOA’s for any reason whatsoever, TMT hereby agrees and assumes the obligation to substitute the non-delivered vessel(s) with replacement tonnage pursuant and subject to the terms of the Supplemental Agreement referenced in Clause 25.

CLAUSE 18

This sale is subject to:

i)
STAR MARITIME ACQUISITION CORP. Delaware ("Star Maritime") a listed company in the AMEX being the parent company of the Buyers filing a definitive proxy/registration statement (the "Registration Statement") with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the "SEC") and such Registration Statement being declared effective by the SEC.
 

 
ii)
Star Maritime obtaining the requisite approval of its stockholders for the Merger (as defined in Supplemental Agreement referenced in Clause 25) and the sale of the vessels provided for in the Supplemental Agreement referenced in Clause 25 at a duly convened stockholders' meeting.

CLAUSE 19

No dry-docking / however the Buyers have the right at Buyers' expense to carry out an under-water (defined as 'parts below the sea water line at time of divers inspection') inspection prior to or at the delivery port and the Sellers shall make the vessel available for such under-water inspection. Inspection of underwater parts shall be carried out by divers approved by the class with the presence of class surveyor and the Sellers/Buyers representatives. Such diver inspection shall be carried out in a manner acceptable to class surveyor. If the conditions at the port of delivery are unsuitable for such inspection, the Sellers shall make the Vessel available at a suitable alternative place near the delivery port.

In the event of any damage/s being found which lead to a recommendation by the classification society and immediate repairs are required, the Sellers shall then dry-dock the Vessel in accordance with clause 6 of the Norwegian Sale Form 1993, and Sellers shall repair same to class satisfaction. Cancelling date to be extended accordingly.

If damage/s are found which lead to a recommendation by the classification society, repair/s of which maybe be carried out by the Buyers at a later stage, as per classification society recommendation, then in lieu of Buyers taking delivery of the Vessel with said recommendation/s the Sellers shall pay to the Buyers the estimated repairing direct cost - this amount will be deducted from the purchase price on delivery.

This estimated repairing direct cost shall be the average cost of 2 quotations from reputable yards/repair shops at or near the delivery port, 1 obtained by Buyers and 1 obtained by Sellers determined in accordance with the cost of such repairs prevailing at the time of delivery of the Vessel, for repair works only without dry-docking costs and without costs of possible time lost, and in any case for the direct cost/s only.

It is understood that class shall be the sole arbiter in any matter under this Clause 19 affecting the Vessel's class.

The costs of class surveyor's fee and diver inspection will be for the Buyers' account.

CLAUSE 20

The Buyers are to pay extra for unused/unbroached lubricating oils in drums and designated storage tanks 'remaining on board' as per actual cost evidenced by net invoice prices including discounts. Also extra payment for bunkers 'remaining on board' at the Sellers' last paid prices (either bought in the open market or paid to last charterers).



CLAUSE 21

As from the Effective Date of Merger (as defined in the Supplemental Agreement referenced in Clause 25) Buyers shall have the right to place onboard up to a maximum of three (3) representatives until delivery as observers for familiarisation purposes only without interference to the Vessel's operation at Buyer's risk and expense. Representatives are to sign Sellers' indemnity form. Sellers shall assist where necessary in the application for visas for Buyer's ongoing representatives. Upon Vessel's arrival at the delivery port Buyers shall have the right to place on board three (3) more representatives on a daily basis up until delivery. Buyers representatives to have the right to communicate with their office / managers via the Vessel's communication means always at Buyers' cost. The Buyers' representatives shall have full access to Vessel's all non-private spaces, as well as to instruction books, plans, certificates, records, documents, plans, drawings and shall have the right to take photocopies of same but should not interfere with the Vessel's cargo discharge operations, if any.

CLAUSE 22

Sellers and Buyers to supply documentation which may be reasonably required and to be mutually agreed for the legal transfer of the Vessel and for her Marshall Islands registration under new flag and ownership (such list to form an addendum to the MOA).

At the time of delivery, in addition to other documents to be agreed per this clause, Buyers shall furnish Sellers with the following delivery documents:

(i)
Novation Agreement duly executed by Buyers;

(ii)
Secretary's Certificate of Buyers authorizing this MOA, the Supplemental Agreement and the Novation Agreement in respect of the charter of the Vessel, together with incumbency certificates; and
 
(iii)
Secretary's Certificate of each of Star Maritime and Star Bulk authorizing the Master Agreement, the Supplemental Agreement and this MOA, together with incumbency certificates.

At the time of delivery, in addition to other documents to be agreed per this clause, Sellers shall furnish Buyers with the following delivery documents:

(i)
Novation Agreement duly executed by Sellers and the charterer;

(ii)
Secretary's Certificate of Sellers authorizing this MOA, the Supplemental Agreement and the Novation Agreement in respect of the charter of the Vessel, together with incumbency certificates; and
 
(iii)
Secretary's Certificate of each of TMT authorizing the Master Agreement, the Supplemental Agreement and this MOA, together with incumbency certificates.
 
CLAUSE 23
 
Sellers warrant that on the date hereof and on the date of closing, the Vessel shall be entitled to trade worldwide within Institute Warranty Limits without restriction on limitation.


 
CLAUSE 24
 
All instruction books, drawings, plans and manuals, on board or ashore in owners/managers office that are in Sellers possession are to be delivered to the Buyers except ISM manuals and ship security plan. The Sellers to forward office set as soon as possible after delivery to the Buyer’s office. All forwarding costs to be for Buyers account.

CLAUSE 25
 
This agreement is one of the “MOAs” referred to and defined in (i) that certain Supplemental Agreement dated the date hereof and executed and delivered concurrently herewith by and among Buyers, Star Maritime as the 100pct parent of the Buyers, and TMT, the 100pct parent of the Sellers and is incorporated herein by reference, and (ii) the Master Agreement dated the date hereof and executed and delivered concurrently herewith by TMT, Buyers and Star Maritime, and is incorporated by reference. If there is any inconsistency between the terms of this agreement and the terms of said Supplemental Agreement and/or said Master Agreement, the terms of said Supplemental Agreement and said Master Agreement shall control.


THE SELLERS
THE BUYERS
   
/s/ Nobu Su
/s/ Prokopios Tsirigakis
____________________
_____________________
 

Appendix D
 
 
MEMORANDUM OF AGREEMENT
 
Dated: January 12, 2007
Norwegian Shipbrokers' Association's Memorandum of Agreement for sale and purchase of ships. Adopted by The Baltic and International Maritime Council (BlMCO)in 1956.
Code-name 
SALEFORM 1993
Revised 1966, 1983 and 1986/87.
 
F Duckling Corporation, Panama
hereinafter called the Sellers, have agreed to sell, and Star Bulk Carriers Corp., Majuro - Marshall Islands or nominee
 
hereinafter called the Buyers, have agreed to buy-
 
Name: F. DUCKLING
 
Classification Society/Class: N.K.K.
 
Built: 2000         By: TSUNEISHI SHIPBUILDING, JAPAN
 
Flag: PANAMA         Place of Registration: PANAMA
 
Call Sign: 3EFZ7        Grt/Nrt: 30,303/17,734
 
Register NumberIMO Number: 9216808
 
hereinafter called the Vessel, on the following terms and conditions:
 
Definitions
 
"Banking days" are days on which banks are open both in the country of the currency stipulated for the Purchase Price in Clause 1 and in the place of closing stipulated in Clause 8.
 
"In writing" or "written" means a letter handed over from the Sellers to the Buyers or vice versa, a registered letter, telex, telefax or other modern form of written communication.
 
"Classification Society" or "Class" means the Society referred to in line 4.
 
1.
Purchase Price USD 40,917,039.41
 
2.
Deposit
 
As security for the correct fulfilment of this Agreement the Buyers shall pay a deposit of 10% (ten per cent) of the Purchase Price within ____________________________________ banking days from the date of this Agreement. This deposit shall be placed with _______________________________ and hold by them in a joint account for the Sellers and the Buyers, to be released in accordance with joint written instructions of the Sellers and the Buyers. Interest, if any, to be credited to the Buyers. Any fee charged for holding the said deposit shall be borne equally by the Sellers and the Buyers.
 
3.
Payment
 
The said Purchase Price shall be paid in full free of bank charges to _____________________________ on delivery of the Vessel, but not later than 3 banking days after the Vessel is in every respect physically ready for delivery in accordance with the terms and conditions of this Agreement and Notice of Readiness has been given in accordance with Clause 5.The Purchase Price shall be paid as provided in the Supplemental Agreement referenced in Clause 25.


 
4.
Inspections

a)*
the Buyers have inspected and accepted the Vessel's classification records. The Buyers have also inspected the Vessel at/in _____________________________________ on _____________________ and have accepted the Vessel following this inspection and the sale is outright and definite, subject only to the terms and conditions of this Agreement.
 

b)*
The Buyers shall have the right to inspect the Vessel and Vessel's classification records and declareat a suitable place at the Buyers' option. However these inspections are not a subject and once the subjects stipulated in clause 18 are lifted the sale becomes outright and definite, subject to the provisions of the Supplemental Agreement referenced in Clause 25.
 
whether same are accepted or not within
 
The Sellers shall provide for inspection of the Vessel at/in (to be advised by Sellers)
 
The Buyers shall undertake the inspection without undue delay to the Vessel. Should the Buyers cause undue delay they shall compensate the Sellers for the losses thereby incurred. The Buyers shall inspect the Vessel without opening up and without cost to the Sellers. During the inspection, the Vessel's deck, instuction books, maintenance records, and engine log books as available on board shall be made available for _______________ examination by the Buyers. If the Vessel is accepted after such inspection, the sale shall become outright and definite, subject only to the terms and conditions of this Agreement, provided the Sellers receive written notice of acceptance from the Buyers within 72 hours after completion of such inspection.
 
Should notice of acceptance of the Vessel's classification records and of the Vessel not be received by the Sellers as aforesaid, the deposit together with interest earned shall be released immediately to the Buyers, whereafter this Agreement shall be null and void.
 
*
4 a) and 4b) are alternatives; delete whichever is not applicable. In the absence of deletions, alternative 4a) to apply.
 
5.
Notices, time and place of delivery
 
a)
The Sellers shall keep the Buyers well informed of the Vessel's itinerary and shall provide the Buyers with 20 , 15 , and 7, 5, 2 days approximate and 1 definite notice of the estimated time of arrival at the intended place of drydocking/underwater inspection/delivery. When the Vessel is at the place of delivery and in every respect physically ready for delivery in accordance with this Agreement, the Sellers shall give the Buyers a written Notice of Readiness for delivery.
 
b)
The Vessel shall be delivered and taken over safely afloat at a safe and accessible berth or anchorage at/ina port worldwide (range/s to be advised) _____________________________  in the Sellers' option.
 
Expected time of delivery: as soon as practically possible following the effective date of the Merger (as defined in the Supplemental Agreement referenced in Clause 25) but not later than the last discharging port of the last laden voyage
 
Date of cancelling (see Clauses-5 c), 6 b) (iii) and 14): as per Supplemental Agreement referenced in Clause 25
 
c)
If the Sellers anticipate that, notwithstanding the exercise of due diligence by them, the Vessel will not be ready for delivery by the cancelling date they may notify the Buyers in writing stating the date when they anticipate that the Vessel will be ready for delivery and propose a new cancelling date. Upon receipt of such notification the Buyers shall have the option of either cancelling this Agreement in accordance with Clause 14 within 7 running days of receipt of the notice or of accepting the new date as the new cancelling date. If the Buyers have not declared their option within 7 running days of receipt of the Sellers' notification or if the Buyers accept the new date, the date proposed in the Sellers' notification shall be deemed to be the new cancelling date and shall bad substituted for the cancelling date stipulated in line 61.
 

 
If this Agreement is maintained with the new cancelling date all other terms and conditions hereof including those contained in Clauses 5 a) and 5 c) shall remain unaltered and in full force and effect. Cancellation or failure to cancel shall be entirely without prejudice to any claim for damages the Buyers may have under Clause 14 for the Vessel not being ready by the original cancelling date.
 
d)
Should the Vessel become an actual, constructive or compromised total loss before delivery the deposit together with interest earned shall be released immediately to the Buyers whereafter this Agreement shall be null and void.
 
6.
Drydocking/Divers InspectionSee Clause 19

a)**
The Sellers shall place the Vessel in drydock at the port of delivery for inspection by the Classification Society of the Vessel's underwater parts below the deepest load line, the extent of the inspection being in accordance with the Classification Society's rules. If the rudder, propeller, bottom or other underwater parts below the deepest load line are found broken, damaged or defective so as to affect the Vessel's class, such defects shall be made good at the Sellers' expense to the satisfaction of the Classification Society without condition/recommendation*.
 
b)**
(i) The Vessel is to be delivered without drydocking. However, the Buyers shall have the right at their expense to arrange for an underwater inspection by a diver approved by the Classification Society prior to the delivery of the Vessel. The Sellers shall at their cost make the Vessel available for such inspection. The extent of the inspection and the conditions under which it is performed shall be to the satisfaction of the Classification Society. If the conditions at the port of delivery are unsuitable for such inspection, the Sellers shall make the Vessel available at a suitable alternative place near to the delivery port. 

(ii) If the ruddor, propeller, bottom or other underwater parts below the deepest load line are found broken, damaged or defective so as to affect the Vessel's class, then unless repairs can be carried out afloat to the satisfaction of the Classification Society, the Sellers shall arrange for the Vessel to be drydocked at their expense for inspection by the Classification Society of the Vessel's underwater parts below the deepest load line, the extent of the inspection being in accordance with the Classification Society's rules. If the rudder, propeller, bottom or other underwater parts below the deepest load line are found broken, damaged or defective so as to affect the Vessel's class, such defects shall be made good by the Sellers at their expense to the satisfaction of the Classification Society without condition/recommendation*. In such event the Sellers are to pay also for the cost of the underwater inspection and the Classification Society's attendance.

(iii) If the Vessel is to be drydockod pursuant to Clause 6 b) (ii) and no suitable dry docking facilities are available at the port of delivery, the Sellers shall take the Vessel to a port where suitable drydocking facilities are available, whether within or outside the delivery range as per Clause 5 b). Once drydocking has taken place the Sellers shall deliver the Vessel at a port within the delivery range as per Clause 5 b) which shall, for the purpose of this Clause, become the new port of delivery. In such event the cancelling date provided for in Clause 5 b) shall be extended by the additional time required for the drydocking and extra steaming, but limited to a maximum of 14 running days. 

c)
If the Vessel is drydocked pursuant to Clause 6 a) or 6 b) above 

(i) the Classification Society may require survey of the tailshaft system, the extent of the survey being to the satisfaction of the Classification surveyor. If such survey is not required by the Classification Society, the Buyers shall have the right to require the tailshaft to be drawn and surveyed by the Classification Society, the extent of the survey being in accordance with the Classification Society's rules for tailshaft survey and consistent with the current stage of the Vessel's survey cycle. The Buyers shall declare whether they require the tailshaft to be drawn and surveyed not later than by the completion of the inspection by the Classification Society. The drawing and refitting of the tailshaft shall be arranged by the Sellers. Should any parts of the tailshaft system be condemned or found defective so as to affect the Vessel's class, those parts shall be renewed or made good at the Sellers' expense to the satisfaction of the Classification Society without condition/recommendation*.
 
(ii) the expenses relating to the survey of the tailshaft system shall be borne by the Buyers unless the Classification Society requires such survey to be carried out, in which case the Sellers shall pay those expenses. The Sellers shall also pay the expenses if the Buyers require the survey and parts of the system are condemned or found defective or broken so as to affect the Vessel's class*.
 

 
(iii) the expenses in connection with putting the Vessel in and taking her out of drydock, including the drydock dues and the Classification Society's fees shall be paid by the Sellers if the Classification Society issues any condition/recommendation* as a result of the survey or if it requires survey of the tailshaft system. In all other cases the Buyer shall pay the aforesaid expenses, dues and fees. 
 
(iv) the Buyers' representative shall have the right to be present in the drydock, but without interfering with the work or decisions of the Classification surveyor. 
 
(v) the Buyers shall have the right to have the underwater parts of the Vessel cleaned and painted at their risk and expense without interfering with the Sellers' or the Classification surveyor's work, if any, and without affecting the Vessel’s timely delivery. If, however, the Buyers' work in drydock is still in progress when the Sellers have completed the work which the Sellers are required to do, the additional docking time needed to complete the Buyers' work shall be for the Buyers' risk and expense. In the event that the Buyers' work requires such additional time, the Sellers may upon completion of the Sellers' work tender Notice of Readiness for delivery whilst the Vessel is still in drydock and the Buyers shall be obliged to take delivery in accordance with Clause 3, whether the Vessel is in drydock or not and irrespective of Clause 5 b). 
 
*
Notes, if any, in the surveyor’s report which are accepted by the Classification Society without condition/recommendation are not to be taken into account. 
 
**
6 a) and 6 b) are alternatives; delete whichever is not applicable. In the absence of deletions, alternative 6 a) to apply. 
 
7.
Spares/bunkers, etc. 
 
The Sellers shall deliver the Vessel to the Buyers with everything belonging to her on board and on shore. All spare parts and spare equipment including spare tail-end shaft(s) and/or spare propeller(s)/propeller blade(s), if any, belonging to the Vessel at the time of inspection used or unused, whether on board or not shall become the Buyers' property, but spares on order are to be excluded. Forwarding charges, if any, shall be for the Buyers' account. The Sellers are not required to replace spare parts including spare tail-end shaft(s) and spare propeller(s)/propeller blade(s) which are taken out of spare and used as replacement prior to delivery, but the replaced items shall be the property of the Buyers. The radio installation and navigational equipment shall be included in the sale without extra payment if they are the property of the Sellers. Unused stores and provisions shall be included in the sale and be taken over by the Buyers without extra payment. 
 
The Sellers have the right to take ashore crockery, plates, cutlery, linen and other articles bearing the Sellers' flag or name, provided they replace same with similar unmarked items. Library, forms, etc., exclusively for use in the Sellers' vessel(s), shall be excluded without compensation. Captain's, Officers' and Crew's personal belongings including the slop chest are to be excluded from the sale, as well as the following additional items (including items on hire): To Be Advised 
 
The Buyers shall take over the remaining bunkers (if same are property of the Sellers) and unused lubricating oils in storage tanks and sealed ________________ drums and pay the current net market price (excluding barging expenses) at the port and date of delivery of the Vessel.See Clause 20 
 
Payment under this Clause shall be made at the same time and place and in the same currency as the Purchase Price. 
 
8.
Documentation
 
The place of closing: New York, USA 
 
b)
Current Certificate of Ownership issued by the competent authorities of the flag state of the Vessel.
 
c)
Confirmation of Class issued within 72 hours3 working days prior to delivery.
 
d)
Current Certificate issued by the competent authorities stating that the Vessel is free from registered encumbrances.
 
e)
Certificate of Deletion of the Vessel from the Vessel's registry or other official evidence of deletion appropriate to the Vessel's registry at the time of delivery, or, in the event that the registry does not as a matter of practice issue such documentation immediately, a written undertaking by the Sellers to effect deletion from the Vessel's registry forthwith and furnish a Certificate or other official evidence of deletion to the Buyers promptly and latest within 4 (four) weeks after the Purchase Price has been paid and the Vessel has been delivered.
 
f)
Any such additional documents as may reasonably be required by the competent authorities for the purpose of registering the Vessel, provided the Buyers notify the Sellers of any such documents as soon as possible after the date of this Agreement. See Clause 22
 
At the time of delivery the Buyers and Sellers shall sign and deliver to each other a Protocol of Delivery and Acceptance confirming the date and time of delivery of the Vessel from the Sellers to the Buyers.
 
At the time of delivery the Sellers shall hand to the Buyers the classification certificate(s) as well as all plans, instruction books, maintenance records etc., which are on board the Vessel. Other certificates which are on board the Vessel shall also be handed over to the Buyers unless the Sellers are required to retain same, in which case the Buyers to have the right to take copies. Other technical documentation which may be in the Sellers' possession shall be promptly forwarded to the Buyers at their expense, if they so request. The Sellers may keep the Vessel's log books but the Buyers to have the right to take copies of same.
 
9.
Encumbrances
 
The Sellers warrant that the Vessel, at the time of delivery, is free from all charters (other than term employment/charters contemplated by the Supplemental Agreement referenced in Clause 25), encumbrances, mortgages and maritime liens or any other debts whatsoever. The Sellers hereby undertake to indemnify the Buyers against all consequences of claims made against the Vessel which have been incurred prior to the time of delivery. The Vessel on delivery to be delivered free of cargo /cargo residues, and free of any dunnage.
 
10.
Taxes, etc.
 
Any taxes, fees and expenses in connection with the purchase and registration under the Buyers' flag shall be for the Buyers' account, whereas similar charges in connection with the closing of the Sellers' register shall be for the Sellers' account.
 
11.
Condition on delivery
 
The Vessel with everything belonging to her shall be at the Sellers' risk and expense until she is delivered to the Buyers, but subject to the terms and conditions of this Agreement she shall be delivered and taken over as she was at the time of inspection, fair wear and tear excepted. However, the Vessel shall be delivered with her class maintained without condition/recommendation*, free of average damage affecting the Vessel's class, and with her classification certificates and International/national certificates and surveys, as well as all other certificates the Vessel had at the time of agreement inspection, valid and unextended without condition/recommendation* by Class or the relevant authorities for a minimum of 1 month from atthe time of delivery.
 
"Inspection" in this Clause 11 and in Clause 7, Line 157, shall mean the Buyers' inspection according to Clause 4 a) or 4 b), if applicable, or the Buyers' inspection prior to the signing of this Agreement. If the Vessel is taken over without inspection, the date of this Agreement shall be the relevant date.
 

 
*
Notes, if any, in the surveyor's report which are accepted by the Classification Society without condition/recommendation are not to be taken into account. 
 
12.  Name/markings
 
Upon delivery the Buyers undertake to change the name of the Vessel and alter funnel markings.
 
13.  Buyers'default
 
Should the deposit not be paid in accordance with Clause 2, the Sellers have the right to cancel this Agreement, and they shall be entitled to claim compensation for their losses and for all expenses incurred together with interest.
 
Should the Purchase Price not be paid in accordance with Clause 3, the Sellers have the right to cancel the Agreement, in which case the deposit together with interest earned shall be released to the Sellers. If the deposit does not cover their loss, the Sellers shall be entitled to claim further compensation for their losses and for all expenses incurred together with interest.
 
14.      Sellers' default as per Supplemental Agreement referenced in Clause 25
 
Should the Sellers fail to give Notice of Roadiness in accordance with Clause 5 a) or fail to be ready to validly complete a legal transfer by the date stipulated in line 61 the Buyers shall have the option of cancelling this Agreement provided always that the Sellers shall be granted a maximum of 3 banking days after Notice of Readiness has been given to make arrangements for the documentation set out in Clause 8. If after Notice of Readiness has been given but before the Buyers have taken delivery, the Vessel ceases to be physically ready for delivery and is not made physically ready again in every respect by the date stipulated in line 61 and new Notice of Readiness given, the Buyers shall retain their option to cancel. In the event that the Buyers elect to cancel this Agreement the deposit together with interest earned shall be released to them immediately.
 
Should the Sellers fail to give Notice of Readiness by the date stipulated in line 61 or fail to be ready to validly complete a legal transfer as aforesaid they shall make due compensation to the Buyers for their loss and for all expenses together with interest if their failure is due to proven negligence and whether or not the Buyers cancel this Agreement.
 
15.      Buyers' representatives See Clause 21
 
After this Agreement has been signed by both parties and the deposit has been lodged, the Buyers have the right to place two representatives on board the Vessel at their sole risk and expense upon arrival at ____________ on or about ________________________________ These representatives are on board for the purpose of familiarisation and in the capacity of observers only, and they shall not interfere in any respect with the operation of the Vessel. The Buyers' representatives shall sign the Sellers' letter of indemnity prior to their embarkation.
 
16.      Arbitration
 
a)*
This Agreement shall be governed by and construed in accordance with English law and any dispute arising out of this Agreement shall be referred to arbitration in London in accordance with the Arbitration Acts 1950 and 1979 or any statutory modification or re enactment thereof for the time being in force, one arbitrator being appointed by each party. On the receipt by one party of the nomination in writing of the other party's arbitrator, that party shall appoint their arbitrator within fourteen days, failing which the decision of the single arbitrator appointed shall apply. If two arbitrators property appointed shall not agree they shall appoint an umpire whose decision shall be final.
 

 
b)*
This Agreement shall be governed by and construed in accordance with Title 9 of the United States Code and the Law of the State of New York and should any dispute arise out of this Agreement, the matter in dispute shall be referred to three persons at New York, one to be appointed by each of the parties hereto, and the third by the two so chosen; their decision or that of any two of them shall be final, and for purpose of enforcing any award, this Agreement may be made a rule of the Court.
 
The proceedings shall be conducted in accordance with the rules of the Society of Maritime Arbitrators, Inc. New York.

c)*
Any dispute arising out of this Agreement shall be referred to arbitration at __________________________ , subject to the procedures applicable there. The laws of _______________ shall govern this Agreement.
 
*
16 a), 16 b) and 16 c) are alternatives; delete whichever is not applicable. In the absence of deletions, alternative 16 a) to apply.
 
Clauses 17-25 both inclusive are deemed are part of this agreement
 
This Charter Party is a computer generated copy of the "SALEFORM 1993" form printed by authority of Norwegian Shipbrokers' Association using software which is the copyright of Strategic Software Ltd. Any insertion or deletion to the form must be clearly visible. In the event of any modification made to the preprinted text of this document which is not clearly visible, the text of the original approved document shall apply. Norwegian Shipbrokers' Association and Strategic Software Ltd. assume no responsibility for any loss or damage caused as a result of discrepancies between the original approved document and this document.
 

 
ADDITIONAL CLAUSES
TO THE MEMORANDUM OF AGREEMENT - SALE FORM 1993
DATED JANUARY 12, 2007 FOR M.V. 'A DUCKLING' (THE VESSEL)
BETWEEN A DUCKLING CORPORATION PANAMA (THE SELLERS)
AND STAR BULK CARRIERS CORP. MARSHALL ISLANDS
OR NOMINEE (THE BUYERS)
 
CLAUSE 17
 
This sale is part of the sale and delivery of the following additional Motor Vessels:
 
M.V. "B Duckling"
M.V. "C Duckling"
M.V. "F Duckling"
M.V. "G Duckling"
M.V. "I Duckling"
M.V. "J Duckling"
M.V. "Mommy Duckling"
 
registered in the respective ownership of the following Owners:
 
B Duckling Corporation, Panama
C Duckling Corporation, Panama
F Duckling Corporation, Panama
G Duckling Corporation, Panama
I Duckling Corporation, Panama
J Duckling Corporation, Panama
Mommy Management Corp., Panama
 
and all ultimately beneficially owned by TMT Co., Ltd., Taiwan ("TMT"). In the event that one or more of the above vessels are not delivered pursuant to their respective MOA's for any reason whatsoever, TMT hereby agrees and assumes the obligation to substitute the non-delivered vessel(s) with replacement tonnage pursuant and subject to the terms of the Supplemental Agreement referenced in Clause 25.
 
CLAUSE 18
 
This sale is subject to:

i)
STAR MARITIME ACQUISITION CORP. Delaware ("Star Maritime") a listed company in the AMEX being the parent company of the Buyers filing a definitive proxy/registration statement (the "Registration Statement") with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the "SEC") and such Registration Statement being declared effective by the SEC.



ii)
Star Maritime obtaining the requisite approval of its stockholders for the Merger (as defined in Supplemental Agreement referenced in Clause 25) and the sale of the vessels provided for in the Supplemental Agreement referenced in Clause 25 at a duly convened stockholders' meeting.
 
CLAUSE 19
 
No dry-docking / however the Buyers have the right at Buyers' expense to carry out an under-water (defined as 'parts below the sea water line at time of divers inspection') inspection prior to or at the delivery port and the Sellers shall make the vessel available for such under-water inspection. Inspection of underwater parts shall be carried out by divers approved by the class with the presence of class surveyor and the Sellers/Buyers representatives. Such diver inspection shall be carried out in a manner acceptable to class surveyor. If the conditions at the port of delivery are unsuitable for such inspection, the Sellers shall make the Vessel available at a suitable alternative place near the delivery port.
 
In the event of any damage/s being found which lead to a recommendation by the classification society and immediate repairs are required, the Sellers shall then dry-dock the Vessel in accordance with clause 6 of the Norwegian Sale Form 1993, and Sellers shall repair same to class satisfaction. Cancelling date to be extended accordingly.
 
If damage/s are found which lead to a recommendation by the classification society, repair/s of which maybe be carried out by the Buyers at a later stage, as per classification society recommendation, then in lieu of Buyers taking delivery of the Vessel with said recommendation/s the Sellers shall pay to the Buyers the estimated repairing direct cost - this amount will be deducted from the purchase price on delivery.
 
This estimated repairing direct cost shall be the average cost of 2 quotations from reputable yards/repair shops at or near the delivery port, 1 obtained by Buyers and 1 obtained by Sellers determined in accordance with the cost of such repairs prevailing at the time of delivery of the Vessel, for repair works only without dry-docking costs and without costs of possible time lost, and in any case for the direct cost/s only.
 
It is understood that class shall be the sole arbiter in any matter under this Clause 19 affecting the Vessel's class.
 
The costs of class surveyor's fee and diver inspection will be for the Buyers' account.
 
CLAUSE 20
 
The Buyers are to pay extra for unused/unbroached lubricating oils in drums and designated storage tanks 'remaining on board' as per actual cost evidenced by net invoice prices including discounts. Also extra payment for bunkers 'remaining on board' at the Sellers' last paid prices (either bought in the open market or paid to last charterers).
 

 
CLAUSE 21
 
As from the Effective Date of Merger (as defined in the Supplemental Agreement referenced in Clause 25) Buyers shall have the right to place onboard up to a maximum of three (3) representatives until delivery as observers for familiarisation purposes only without interference to the Vessel's operation at Buyer's risk and expense. Representatives are to sign Sellers' indemnity form. Sellers shall assist where necessary in the application for visas for Buyer's ongoing representatives. Upon Vessel's arrival at the delivery port Buyers shall have the right to place on board three (3) more representatives on a daily basis up until delivery. Buyers representatives to have the right to communicate with their office / managers via the Vessel's communication means always at Buyers' cost. The Buyers' representatives shall have full access to Vessel's all non-private spaces, as well as to instruction books, plans, certificates, records, documents, plans, drawings and shall have the right to take photocopies of same but should not interfere with the Vessel's cargo discharge operations, if any.
 
CLAUSE 22
 
Sellers and Buyers to supply documentation which may be reasonably required and to be mutually agreed for the legal transfer of the Vessel and for her Marshall Islands registration under new flag and ownership (such list to form an addendum to the MOA).
 
At the time of delivery, in addition to other documents to be agreed per this clause, Buyers shall furnish Sellers with the following delivery documents:
 
(i)
Novation Agreement duly executed by Buyers;
 
(ii)
Secretary's Certificate of Buyers authorizing this MOA, the Supplemental Agreement and the Novation Agreement in respect of the charter of the Vessel, together with incumbency certificates; and
 
(iii)
Secretary's Certificate of each of Star Maritime and Star Bulk authorizing the Master Agreement, the Supplemental Agreement and this MOA, together with incumbency certificates.
 
At the time of delivery, in addition to other documents to be agreed per this clause, Sellers shall furnish Buyers with the following delivery documents:
 
(i)
Novation Agreement duly executed by Sellers and the charterer;
 
(ii)
Secretary's Certificate of Sellers authorizing this MOA, the Supplemental Agreement and the Novation Agreement in respect of the charter of the Vessel, together with incumbency certificates; and
 
(iii)
Secretary's Certificate of each of TMT authorizing the Master Agreement, the Supplemental Agreement and this MOA, together with incumbency certificates.
 
CLAUSE 23
 
Sellers warrant that on the date hereof and on the date of closing, the Vessel shall be entitled to trade worldwide within Institute Warranty Limits without restriction on limitation.
 

 
CLAUSE 24
 
All instruction books, drawings, plans and manuals, on board or ashore in owners/managers office that are in Sellers possession are to be delivered to the Buyers except ISM manuals and ship security plan. The Sellers to forward office set as soon as possible after delivery to the Buyer’s office. All forwarding costs to be for Buyers account.

CLAUSE 25
 
This agreement is one of the “MOAs” referred to and defined in (i) that certain Supplemental Agreement dated the date hereof and executed and delivered concurrently herewith by and among Buyers, Star Maritime as the 100pct parent of the Buyers, and TMT, the 100pct parent of the Sellers and is incorporated herein by reference, and (ii) the Master Agreement dated the date hereof and executed and delivered concurrently herewith by TMT, Buyers and Star Maritime, and is incorporated by reference. If there is any inconsistency between the terms of this agreement and the terms of said Supplemental Agreement and/or said Master Agreement, the terms of said Supplemental Agreement and said Master Agreement shall control.


THE SELLERS
THE BUYERS
   
/s/ Nobu Su
/s/ Prokopios Tsirigakis
____________________
_____________________
 

Appendix E
 

MEMORANDUM OF AGREEMENT
 
Dated: January 12, 2007
Norwegian Shipbrokers' Association’s Memorandum of Agreement for sale and purchase of ships. Adopted by The Baltic and International Maritime Council (BIMCO) in 1956.
Code-name
SALE FORM 1993
Revised 1966,1983 and 1986/87.
 
G Duckling Corporation, Panama
hereinafter called the Sellers, have agreed to sell, and Star Bulk Carriers Corp., Majuro - Marshall Islands or nominee
 
hereinafter called the Buyers, have agreed to buy-
 
Name: G.DUCKLING
 
Classification Society/Class: N.K.K.
 
Built: 2001     By: TSUNEISHI SHIPBUILDING, JAPAN
 
Flag: PANAMA     Place of Registration: PANAMA
 
Call Sign: 3EGW2     Grt/Nrt: 30,303/17,734
 
Register Number: IMO Number: 9216822
 
hereinafter called the Vessel, on the following terms and conditions:
 
Definitions
 
“Banking days” are days on which banks are open both in the country of the currency stipulated for the Purchase Price in Clause 1 and in the place of closing stipulated in Clause 8.
 
“In writing” or “written” means a letter handed over from the Sellers to the Buyers or vice versa, a registered letter, telex, telefax or other modern form of written communication.
 
“Classification Society” or “Class” means the Society referred to in line 4.
 
1.
Purchase Price USD 40,917,039.41
 
2.
Deposit
 
As security for the correct fulfillment of this Agreement the Buyers shall pay a deposit of 10 % (ten per cent) of the Purchase Price within _______________ banking days from the date of this Agreement. This deposit shall be placed with ___________________________ and held by them in a joint account for-the Sellers and the Buyers, to be released in accordance with joint written instructions of the Sellers and the Buyers. Interest, if any, to be credited to the Buyers. Any fee charged for holding the paid deposit shall be borne equally by the Sellers and the Buyers
 
3.
Payment
 
The said Purchase Price shall be paid in full free of bank charges to _________________________ on delivery of the Vessel, but not later than 3 banking days after the Vessel is in every respect physically ready for delivery in accordance with the terms and conditions of this Agreement and Notice of Readiness has been given in accordance? With Clause 5. The Purchase Price shall be paid as provided in the Supplemental Agreement referenced in Clause 25.
 

 
4.
Inspections
 
a)*
The Buyers have inspected and accepted the Vessel’s classification records. The Buyers have also inspected the Vessel at/in ________________ on ________________ and have accepted the Vessel following this inspection and the sale is outright and definite), subject only to the terms and conditions of this Agreement.
 
b)*
The Buyers shall have the right to inspect the Vessel and Vessel’s classification records and declare at a suitable place at the Buyers’ option. However these inspections are not a subject and once the subjects stipulated in clause 18 are lifted the sale becomes outright and definite, subject to the provisions of the Supplemental Agreement referenced in Clause 25. whether same are accepted or not within
 
The Sellers shall provide for inspection of the Vessel at/in (to be advised by Sellers)
 
The Buyers shall undertake the inspection without undue delay to the Vessel. Should the Buyers cause undue delay they shall compensate the Sellers for the losses thereby incurred. The Buyers shall inspect the Vessel without opening up and without cost to the Sellers. During the inspection, the Vessel’s deck, instuction books, maintenance records,and engine log books as available on board shall be made available for ____________________ examination by the Buyers. If the Vessel is accepted after such inspection, the sale shall become outright and definite, subject only to the terms and conditions of this Agreement, provided the Sellers receive written notice of acceptance from the Buyers within 72 hours after completion of such inspection.
 
Should notice of acceptance of the Vessel’s classification records and of the Vessel not be received by the Sellers as aforesaid, the deposit together with interest earned shall be released immediately to the Buyers, whereafter this Agreement shall be null and void.
 
*
4 a) and 4b) are alternatives; delete whichever is not applicable. In the absence of deletions, alternative 4a) to apply.
 
5.
Notices, time and place of delivery
 
a)
The Sellers shall keep the Buyers well informed of the Vessel’s itinerary and shall provide the Buyers with 20 ,15 ,and 7, 5, 2 daysapproximate and 1 definite notice of the estimated time of arrival at the ________________ intended place of drydocking/underwater inspection/delivery. When the Vessel is at the place of delivery and in every respect physically ready for delivery in accordance with this Agreement, the Sellers shall give the Buyers a written Notice of Readiness for delivery.
 
b)
The Vessel shall be delivered and taken over safely afloat at a safe and accessible berth or anchorage at/in a port worldwide (range/s to be advised) ______________in the Sellers’ option.
 
 
Expected time of delivery: as soon as practically possible following the Effective Date of the Merger (as defined in the Supplemental Agreement referenced in Clause 25) but not later than the last discharging port of the last laden voyage
 
 
Date of cancelling (see Clauses 5 c), 6 b) (iii) and 14): as per Supplemental Agreement referenced in Clause 25
 
c)
If the Sellers anticipate that, notwithstanding the exercise of due diligence by them, the Vessel will not be ready for delivery by the cancelling date they may notify the Buyers in writing stating the date when they anticipate that the Vessel will be ready for delivery and propose a now cancelling date. Upon receipt of such notification the Buyers shall have the option of either cancelling this Agreement in accordance with Clause 14 within 7 running days of receipt of the notice or of accepting the new date as the new cancelling date. If the Buyers have not declared their option within 7 running days of receipt of the Sellers’ notification or if the Buyers accept the new date, the date proposed in the Sellers’ notification shall be doomed to be the new cancelling date and shall be substituted for the cancelling date stipulated in line 61.
 

 
 
If this Agreement is maintained with the new cancelling date all other terms and conditions hereof including those contained in Clauses 5 a) and 5 c) shall remain unaltered and in full force and effect. Cancellation or failure to cancel shall be entirely without prejudice to any claim for damages the Buyers may have under Clause 14 for the Vassal not being ready by the original cancelling data.
 
d)
Should the Vessel become an actual, constructive or compromised total loss before delivery the deposit together with interest earned shall be released immediately to the Buyers whereafter this Agreement shall be null and void.
 
6.
Drydocking/Divers Inspection See Clause 19
 
a)**
The Sellers shall place the Vessel in drydock at the port of delivery for inspection by the Classification Society of the Vessel’s underwater parts below the deepest load line, the extent of the inspection being in accordance with the Classification Society’s rules. If the rudder, propeller, bottom or other underwater parts below the deepest load line are found broken, damaged or defective so as to affect the Vessel’s class, such defects shall be made good at the Sellers’ expense to the satisfaction of the Classification Society without condition/recommendation*.
 
b)**
(i) The Vessel is to be delivered without drydocking. However, the Buyers shall have the right at their expense to arrange for an underwater inspection by a diver approved by the Classification Society prior to the delivery of the Vessel. The Sellers shall at their cost make the Vessel available for such inspection. The extent of the inspection and the conditions under which it is performed shall be to the satisfaction of the Classification Society. If the conditions at the-port of delivery are unsuitable for such inspection, the Sellers shall make the Vessel available at a suitable alternative place near to the delivery port. 
 
(ii) If the rudder, propeller, bottom or other underwater parts below the deepest load line are found broken, damaged or defective so as to affect the Vessel’s class, then unless repairs can be carried out afloat to the satisfaction of the Classification Society, the Sellers shall arrange for the Vessel to be drydocked at their expense for inspection by the Classification Society of the Vessel’s underwater parts below the deepest load line, the extent of the inspection being in accordance with the Classification Society’s rules. If the rudder, propeller, bottom or other underwater parts below the deepest load lion are found broken, damaged or defective so as to affect the Vessel’s class, such defects shall be made good by the Sellers at their expense to the satisfaction of the Classification Society without condition/recommendation*. In such event the Sellers are to pay also for the cost of the underwater inspection and the Classification Society’s attendance.
 
(iii) If the Vessel is to be drydocked pursuant to Clause 6 b) (ii) and no suitable dry- docking facilities are available at the port of delivery, the Sellers shall take the Vessel to a port where suitable drydocking facilities are available, whether within or outside the delivery range as per Clause 5 b). Once drydocking has taken place the Sellers shall deliver the Vessel at a port within the delivery range as per Clause 5 b) which shall, for the purpose of this Clause, become the new port of delivery. In such event the cancelling date provided for in Clause 5 b) shall be extended by the additional time required for the drydocking and extra steaming, but limited to a maximum of 14 running days.
 
c)
If the Vessel is drydocked pursuant to Clause 6 a) or 6 b) above
 
(i) the Classification Society may require survey of the tailshaft system, the extent of the survey being to the satisfaction of the Classification surveyor. If such survey is not required by the Classification Society, the Buyers shall have the right to require the tailshaft to be drawn and surveyed by the Classification Society, the extent of the survey being in accordance with the Classification Society’s rules for tailshaft survey and consistent with the current stage of the Vessel’s survey cycle. The Buyers shall declare whether they require the tail shaft to be drawn and surveyed not later than by the completion of the inspection by the Classification Society. The drawing and refitting of the tail shaft shall be arranged by the Sellers. Should any parts of the tail shaft system be condemned or found defective so as to affect the Vessel’s class, those parts shall be renewed or made good at the Sellers’ expense to the satisfaction of the Classification Society without condition/recommendation*.
 
(ii) the expenses relating to the survey of the tailshaft system shall be borne by the Buyers unless the Classification Society requires such survey to be carried out, in which case the Sellers shall pay these expenses. The Sellers shall also pay the expenses if the Buyers require the survey and parts of the system are condemned or found defective or broken so as to affect the Vessel’s class*.
 

 
(iii) the expenses in connection with putting the Vessel in and taking hour out of drydock, including the drydock dues and the Classification Society’s fees Shall be paid by the Sellers if the Classification Society issues any condition/recommendation* as a result of the survey or if it requires survey of the tail shaft system. In all other cases the Buyers shall pay the aforesaid expense, dues and fees.
 
(iv) the Buyers’ representative shall have the right to be present in the drydock, but without interfering with the work or decisions of the Classification surveyor.
 
(v) the Buyers shall have the right to have the underwater parts of the Vassal cleaned and painted at their risk and expense without interfering with the Sellers’ or the Classification surveyor’s work, if any, and without affecting the Vessel’s timely delivery. If, however, the Buyers’ work in drydock is still in progress when the Sellers have completed the work which the Sellers are required to do, the additional docking time needed to complete the Buyers’ work Shall be for the Buyers’ risk and expense. In the event that the Buyers’ work requires such additional time, the Sellers may upon completion of the Sellers’ work tender Notice of Readiness for delivery whilst the Vessel is still in drydock and the Buyers shall be obliged to take delivery in accordance with Clause 3, whether the Vessel is in drydock or not and irrespective of Clause 5 b).
 
*
Notes, if any, in the surveyor’s report which are accepted by the Classification Society without condition/recommendation are not to be taken into account.
 
**
6 a) and 6 b) are alternatives; delete whichever is not applicable. In the absence of dilution, alternatives 6 a) to apply
 
7.
Spares/bunkers, etc.
 
The Sellers shall deliver the Vessel to the Buyers with everything belonging to her on board and on shore. All spare parts and spare equipment including spare tail-end shaft(s) and/or spare  propeller(s)/propeller blade(s), if any, belonging to the Vessel at the time of inspection used or unused, whether on board or not shall become the Buyers’ property, but spares on order are to be excluded. Forwarding charges, if any, shall be for the Buyers’ account. The Sellers are not required to replace spare parts including spare tail-end shaft(s) and spare propeller(s)/propeller blade(s) which are taken out of spare and used as replacement prior to delivery, but the replaced items shall be the  property of the Buyers. The radio installation and navigational equipment shall be included in the sale without extra payment if they are the property of the Sellers. Unused stores and provisions shall be included in the sale and be taken over by the Buyers without extra payment.
 
The Sellers have the right to take ashore crockery, plates, cutlery, linen and other articles bearing the Sellers’ flag or name, provided they replace same with similar unmarked items. Library, forms, etc., exclusively for use in the Sellers’ vessel(s), shall be excluded without compensation. Captain’s, Officers’ and Crew’s personal belongings including the slop chest are to be excluded from the sale, as well as the following additional items (including items on hire): To Be Advised 
 
The Buyers shall take over the remaining bunkers (if same are property of the Sellers) and unused lubricating oils in storage tanks and ______________ sealed drums and pay the current net market price (excluding barging expenses) at the port and date of delivery of the Vessel.See Clause 20
 
Payment under this Clause shall be made at the same time and place and in the same currency as the Purchase Price
 
8.
Documentation
 
The place of closing: New York, USA
 
In exchange for payment of the Purchase Price the Sellers shall furnish the Buyers with delivery documents, namely:
 

 
a)
Legal Bill of Sale in a form recordable in Marshall Islands (the country in which the Buyers are to register the Vessel), warranting that the Vessel is free from all encumbrances, mortgages and maritime liens or any other debts or claims whatsoever, duly materially attested and legalized by the consul of such country or other competent authority.
 
b)
Current Certificate of Ownership issued by the competent authorities of the flag state of the Vessel.
 
c)
Confirmation of Class issued within 72 hours 3 working days prior to delivery.
 
d)
Current Certificate issued by the competent authorities stating that the Vessel is free from registered encumbrances.
 
e)
Certificate of Deletion of the Vessel from the Vessel’s registry or other official evidence of deletion appropriate to the Vessel’s registry at the time of delivery, or, in the event that the registry does not as a matter of practice issue such documentation immediately, a written undertaking by the Sellers to effect deletion from the Vessel’s registry forthwith and furnish a Certificate or other official evidence of deletion to the Buyers promptly and latest within 4 (four) weeks after the Purchase Price has been paid and the Vessel has been delivered.
 
f)
Any such additional documents as may reasonably be required by the competent authorities for the purpose of registering the Vessel, provided the Buyers notify the Sellers of any such documents as soon as possible after the date of this Agreement.  See Clause 22
 
At the time of delivery the Buyers and Sellers shall sign and deliver to each other a Protocol of Delivery and Acceptance confirming the date and time of delivery of the Vessel from the Sellers to the Buyers.
 
At the time of delivery the Sellers shall hand to the Buyers the classification certificate(s) as well as all plans, instruction books, maintenance records etc., which are on board the Vessel. Other certificates which are on board the Vessel shall also ____________________ be handed over to the Buyers unless the Sellers are required to retain same, in which case the Buyers to have the right to take copies. Other technical documentation which may be in the Sellers’ possession shall be promptly forwarded to the Buyers at their expense, if they so request. The Sellers may keep the Vessel’s log books but the Buyers to have the right to take copies of same.
 
9.
Encumbrance
 
The Sellers warrant that the Vessel, at the time of delivery, is free from all charters (other than term employment/charters contemplated by the Supplemental Agreement referenced in Clause 25), encumbrances, ____________________ mortgages and maritime liens or any other debts whatsoever. The Sellers hereby undertake to indemnify the Buyers against all consequences of claims made against the Vessel which have been incurred prior to the time of delivery.The Vessel on delivery to be delivered free of cargo/cargo residues, and free of any dunnage.
 
10.
Taxes, etc.
 
Any taxes, fees and expenses in connection with the purchase and registration under the Buyers’ flag shall be for the Buyers’ account, whereas similar charges in connection with the closing of the Sellers’ register shall be for the Sellers’ account.
 
11.
Condition on delivery
 
The Vessel with everything belonging to her shall be at the Sellers’ risk and expense until she is delivered to the Buyers, but subject to the terms and conditions of this Agreement she shall be delivered and taken over as she was at the time of inspection, fair wear and tear excepted.  However, the Vessel shall be delivered with her class maintained without condition/recommendation*, free of average damage affecting the Vessel’s class, and with her classification certificates and International/national certificatesand surveys,as well as all other certificates the Vessel had at the time of agreement inspection, valid and __________________ unexpended without condition/recommendation* by Class or the relevant authorities for a minimum of 1 month from at the time of ___________________ delivery.
 

 
“Inspection” in this Clause 11 and in Clause 7, Line 157,shall mean the Buyers’ inspection according to Clause 4 a) or 4 b), if _________________ applicable, or the Buyers’ inspection prior to the signing of this Agreement. If the Vessel is taken over without inspection, the date of this Agreement shall be the relevant date.
 
*
Notes, if any, in the surveyor’s report which are accepted by the Classification Society without condition/recommendation are not to be taken into account.
 
12
Name/markings
 
Upon delivery the Buyers undertake to change the name of the Vessel and alter funnel markings.
 
13.
Buyers’ default
 
Should the deposit not be paid in accordance) with Clause 2, the Sellers have the right to cancel this Agreement, and they shall be entitled to claim compensation for their losses and for all expenses incurred together with interest.
 
Should the Purchase Price not be paid in accordance with Clause 3, the Sellers have the right to cancel the Agreement, in which case the deposit together with interest earned shall be released to the Sellers. If the deposit does not cover their loss, the Sellers shall be entitled to claim further compensation for their losses and for all expenses incurred together with interest.
 
14.
Sellers’ default as per Supplemental Agreement referenced in Clause 25
 
Should the Sellers fail to give Notice of Readiness in accordance with Clause 5 a) or fail to be ready to validly complete a legal transfer by the date stipulated in line 61 the Buyers shall have the option of cancelling this Agreement provided always that the Seller shall be granted a maximum of 3 banking days after Notice of Readiness has been given to make arrangements for the documentation sot out in Clause 8. If after Notice of Readiness have been given but before the Buyers have taken delivery, the Vessel coasts to be physically ready for delivery and is not made physically ready again in every respect by the date stipulated in line 61 and new Notice of Readiness given, the Buyers shall retain their option to cancel. In the event that the Buyers elect to cancel this Agreement the deposit together with interest earned shall be released to them immediately.
 
Should the Sellers fail to give Notice of Readiness by the date stipulated in line 61 or fail to be ready to validly complete a legal transfer as aforesaid they shall make duo compensation to the Buyers for their loss and for all expenses together with interest if their failure is due to proven negligence and whether or not the Buyers cancel trio Agreement.
 
15.
Buyers’ representatives See Clause 21
 
After this Agreement have been Signed by both parties and the deposit has been lodged, the buyers have the right to place two representatives on board the Vessel at their solo risk and expense upon arrival at __________________ on or about ____________________. These representatives are on board for the purpose of familiarization and in the capacity of observers only, and they shall not interfere in any respect with the operation of the Vessel. The Buyers’ representatives chill sign the Sellers’ lotto of indemnity prior to their embarkation.
 
16.
Arbitration
 
a)*
This Agreement shall be governed by and construed in accordance with English law and any dispute arising out of this Agreement Shall be referred to arbitration in London in accordance with the Arbitration Acts 1950 and 1979 or any statutory modification or re- enactment thereof for the time being in force, one arbitrator being appointed by each party. On the receipt by one party of the nomination in writing of the other party’s arbitrator- that party shall appoint their arbitrator within fourteen days, failing which the decision of the single arbitrator appointed shall apply. If two arbitrators properly appointed shall not agree they shall appoint an umpire whose decision shall be final.
 

 
b)*
This Agreement shall be governed by and construed in accordance with Title 9 of the United States Code and the Law of the State of New York and should any dispute arise out of this Agreement, the matter in dispute shall be referred to three persons at New York, one to be appointed by each of the parties hereto, and the third by the two so chosen; their decision or that of any two of them shall be final, and for purpose of enforcing any award, this Agreement may be made a rule of the Court.
 
The proceedings shall be conducted in accordance with the rules of the Society of Maritime Arbitrators, Inc. New York.
 
c)*
Any dispute arising out of this Agreement shall be referred to arbitration at _________________________ subject to the procedures applicable there. The laws of ________________ shall govern this Agreement.
 
*
16 a), 16 b) and 16 c) are alternatives; delete whichever is not applicable. In the absence of  deletions, alternative 16 a) to apply.
 
Clauses 17-25 both inclusive are deemed are part of this agreement
 
This Charter Party is a computer generated copy of the “SALEFORM 1993” form printed by authority of Norwegian Shipbrokers’ Association using software which is the copyright of Strategic Software Ltd. Any insertion or deletion to the form must be clearly visible. In the event of any modification made to the preprinted text of this document which is not clearly visible, the text of the original approved document shall apply. Norwegian Shipbrokers’ Association and Strategic Software Ltd. assume no responsibility for any loss or damage caused as a result of discrepancies between the original approved document and this document.
 

 
ADDITIONAL CLAUSES
TO THE MEMORANDUM OF AGREEMENT - SALE FORM 1993
DATED JANUARY 12, 2007 FOR M.V. ‘G DUCKLING’ (THE VESSEL)
BETWEEN G DUCKLING CORPORATION, PANAMA (THE SELLERS)
AND STAR BULK CARRIERS CORP. MARSHALL ISLANDS OR
NOMINEE (THE BUYERS)
 
CLAUSE 17
 
This sale is part of the sale and delivery of the following additional Motor Vessels:
 
M.V. “A Duckling”
M.V. “B Duckling”
M.V. “C Duckling”
M.V. “F Duckling”
M.V. “I Duckling”
M.V. “J Duckling”
M.V. “Mommy Duckling”
 
registered in the respective ownership of the following Owners:
 
A Duckling Corporation, Panama
B Duckling Corporation, Panama
C Duckling Corporation, Panama
F Duckling Corporation, Panama
I Duckling Corporation, Panama
J Duckling Corporation, Panama
Mommy Management Corp., Panama
 
and all ultimately beneficially owned by TMT Co., Ltd., Taiwan (“TMT”). In the event that one or more of the above vessels are not delivered pursuant to their respective MOA’s for any reason whatsoever, TMT hereby agrees and assumes the obligation to substitute the non-delivered vessel(s) with replacement tonnage pursuant and subject to the terms of the Supplemental Agreement referenced in Clause 25.
 
CLAUSE 18
 
This sale is subject to:
 
i)
STAR MARITIME ACQUISITION CORP. Delaware (“Star Maritime”) a listed company in the AMEX being the parent company of the Buyers filing a definitive proxy/registration statement (the “Registration Statement”) with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”) and such Registration Statement being declared effective by the SEC.
 
 

 
 
ii)
Star Maritime obtaining the requisite approval of its stockholders for the Merger (as defined in Supplemental Agreement referenced in Clause 25) and the sale of the vessels provided for in the Supplemental Agreement referenced in Clause 25 at a duly convened stockholders’ meeting.
 
CLAUSE 19
 
No dry-docking / however the Buyers have the right at Buyers’ expense to carry out an under-water (defined as ‘parts below the sea water line at time of divers inspection') inspection prior to or at the delivery port and the Sellers shall make the vessel available for such under-water inspection. Inspection of underwater parts shall be carried out by divers approved by the class with the presence of class surveyor and the Sellers/Buyers representatives. Such diver inspection shall be carried out in a manner acceptable to class surveyor. If the conditions at the port of delivery are unsuitable for such inspection, the Sellers shall make the Vessel available at a suitable alternative place near the delivery port.
 
In the event of any damage/s being found which lead to a recommendation by the classification society and immediate repairs are required, the Sellers shall then dry-dock the Vessel in accordance with clause 6 of the Norwegian Sale Form 1993, and Sellers shall repair same to class satisfaction. Cancelling date to be extended accordingly.
 
If damage/s are found which lead to a recommendation by the classification society, repair/s of which maybe be carried out by the Buyers at a later stage, as per classification society recommendation, then in lieu of Buyers taking delivery of the Vessel with said recommendation/s the Sellers shall pay to the Buyers the estimated repairing direct cost - this amount will be deducted from the purchase price on delivery.
 
This estimated repairing direct cost shall be the average cost of 2 quotations from reputable yards/repair shops at or near the delivery port, 1 obtained by Buyers and 1 obtained by Sellers determined in accordance with the cost of such repairs prevailing at the time of delivery of the Vessel, for repair works only without dry-docking costs and without costs of possible time lost, and in any case for the direct cost/s only.
 
It is understood that class shall be the sole arbiter in any matter under this Clause 19 affecting the Vessel’s class.
 
The costs of class surveyor’s fee and diver inspection will be for the Buyers’ account.
 
CLAUSE 20
 
The Buyers are to pay extra for unused/unbroached lubricating oils in drums and designated storage tanks ‘remaining on board’ as per actual cost evidenced by net invoice prices including discounts. Also extra payment for bunkers ‘remaining on board’ at the Sellers’ last paid prices (either bought in the open market or paid to last charterers).
 

 
CLAUSE 21
 
As from the Effective Date of Merger (as defined in the Supplemental Agreement referenced in Clause 25) Buyers shall have the right to place onboard up to a maximum of three (3) representatives until delivery as observers for familiarisation purposes only without interference to the Vessel’s operation at Buyer’s risk and expense. Representatives are to sign Sellers’ indemnity form. Sellers shall assist where necessary in the application for visas for Buyer’s ongoing representatives. Upon Vessel’s arrival at the delivery port Buyers shall have the right to place on board three (3) more representatives on a daily basis up until delivery. Buyers representatives to have the right to communicate with their office / managers via the Vessel’s communication means always at Buyers’ cost. The Buyers’ representatives shall have full access to Vessel’s all non-private spaces, as well as to instruction books, plans, certificates, records, documents, plans, drawings and shall have the right to take photocopies of same but should not interfere with the Vessel’s cargo discharge operations, if any.
 
CLAUSE 22
 
Sellers and Buyers to supply documentation which may be reasonably required and to be mutually agreed for the legal transfer of the Vessel and for her Marshall Islands registration under new flag and ownership (such list to form an addendum to the MOA).
 
At the time of delivery, in addition to other documents to be agreed per this clause, Buyers shall furnish Sellers with the following delivery documents:
 
(i)
Novation Agreement duly executed by Buyers;
 
(ii)
Secretary’s Certificate of Buyers authorizing this MOA, the Supplemental Agreement and the Novation Agreement in respect of the charter of the Vessel, together with incumbency certificates; and
 
(iii)
Secretary’s Certificate of each of Star Maritime and Star Bulk authorizing the Master Agreement, the Supplemental Agreement and this MOA, together with incumbency certificates.
 
At the time of delivery, in addition to other documents to be agreed per this clause, Sellers shall furnish Buyers with the following delivery documents:
 
(i)
Novation Agreement duly executed by Sellers and the charterer;
 
(ii)
Secretary’s Certificate of Sellers authorizing this - MOA, the Supplemental Agreement and the Novation Agreement in respect of the charter of the Vessel, together with incumbency certificates; and
 
(iii)
Secretary’s Certificate of each of TMT authorizing the Master Agreement, the Supplemental Agreement and this MOA, together with incumbency certificates.
 
CLAUSE 23
 
Sellers warrant that on the date hereof and on the date of closing, the Vessel shall be entitled to trade worldwide within Institute Warranty Limits without restriction on limitation.
 

 
CLAUSE 24
 
All instruction books, drawings, plans and manuals, on board or ashore in owners/managers office that are in Sellers possession are to be delivered to the Buyers except ISM manuals and ship security plan. The Sellers to forward office set as soon as possible after delivery to the Buyer’s office. All forwarding costs to be for Buyers account.

CLAUSE 25
 
This agreement is one of the “MOAs” referred to and defined in (i) that certain Supplemental Agreement dated the date hereof and executed and delivered concurrently herewith by and among Buyers, Star Maritime as the 100pct parent of the Buyers, and TMT, the 100pct parent of the Sellers and is incorporated herein by reference, and (ii) the Master Agreement dated the date hereof and executed and delivered concurrently herewith by TMT, Buyers and Star Maritime, and is incorporated by reference. If there is any inconsistency between the terms of this agreement and the terms of said Supplemental Agreement and/or said Master Agreement, the terms of said Supplemental Agreement and said Master Agreement shall control.


THE SELLERS
THE BUYERS
   
/s/ Nobu Su
/s/ Prokopios Tsirigakis
____________________
_____________________
 

Appendix F
 
 
MEMORANDUM OF AGREEMENT
 
Dated: January 12, 2007
Norwegian Shipbrokers* Association’s Memo-randum of Agreement for sale and purchase of ships. Adopted by The Baltic and International Maritime Council (BIMCO) in 1956.
Code-name
SALEFORM 1993
Revised 1966,1983 and 1986/87.
 
I Duckling Corporation, Panama
hereinafter called the Sellers, have agreed to sell, and Star Bulk Carriers Corp., Majuro - Marshall Islands or nominee
 
hereinafter called the Buyers, have agreed to buy-
 
Name: I. DUCKLING
 
Classification Society/Class:     BUREAU VERITAS
 
Built: 2003     By:OSHIMA SHIPBUILDING CO. LTD, JAPAN
 
Flag: PANAMA     Place of Registration: PANAMA
 
Call Sign: 3EF15      Grt/Nrt: 29,357/17,595
 
Register NumberIMO Number: 9284477
 
hereinafter called the Vessel, on the following terms and conditions:
 
Definitions
 
“Banking days” are days on which banks are open both in the country of the currency stipulated for the Purchase Price in Clause 1 and in the place of closing stipulated in Clause 8.
 
“In writing” or “written” means a letter handed over from the Sellers to the Buyers or vice versa, a registered letter, telex, telefax or other modern form of written communication.
 
“Classification Society” or “Class” means the Society referred to in line 4.
 
1.
Purchase Price USD 42,451,428.39
 
2.
Deposit
 
As security for the correct fulfilment of this Agreement the Buyers shall pay a deposit of 10 % (ten per cent) of the Purchase Price within  __________________ banking days from the date of this Agreement. This deposit shall be placed with ___________________________________________________________ and held by them in a joint account for the Sellers and the Buyers, to be released in accordance with joint written instructions of the Sellers and the Buyers. Interest, if any, to be credited to the Buyers. Any fee charged for holding the said deposit shall be borne equally by the Sellers and the Buyers.
 
3.
Payment
 
The-said Purchase Price shall be paid in full free of bank charges to
 
on delivery of the Vessel, but not later than 3 banking days after the Vessel is in every respect physically ready for delivery in accordance with the terms and conditions of this Agreement and Notice of Readiness has been given in accordance with Clause 5. The Purchase Price shall be paid as provided in the Supplemental Agreement referenced in Clause 25.
 

 
4.
Inspections
 
a)*
The Buyers have inspected and accepted the  Vessels classification records. The Buyers have also inspected the Vessel at/in _________________ on _____________ and have accepted the Vessel following this inspection and the sale is outright and definite, subject only to the terms and conditions of this Agreement.
 
b)*
The Buyers shall have the right to inspect the Vessel and Vessel’s classification records and declareat a suitable place at the Buyers’ option. However these inspections are not a subject and once the subjects stipulated in clause 18 are lifted the sale becomes outright and definite, subject to the provisions of the Supplemental Agreement referenced in Clause 25. whether same are accepted or not within
 
The Sellers shall provide for inspection of the Vessel at/in (to be advised by Sellers)
 
The Buyers shall undertake the inspection without undue delay to the Vessel. Should-the Buyers cause undue delay they shall compensate the Sellers for the losses thereby incurred.The Buyers shall inspect the Vessel without opening up and without cost to the Sellers. During the inspection, the Vessel’s deck, instruction books, maintenance records, and engine log books as available on board shall be made available for __________________________________________ examination by the Buyers. If the Vessel is accepted after such inspection, the sale shall become outright and definite, subject only to the terms and conditions of this Agreement, provided the Sellers receive written notice of acceptance from the Buyers within 72 hours after completion of such inspection. ___________________________________________________ Should notice of acceptance of the Vessels  classification records and of the Vessel not be received- by the Sellers as aforesaid, the deposit together with interest earned shall be released immediately to the Buyers, where after this Agreement shall be null and void.
 
*
4 a) and 4b) are alternatives; delete whichever is not applicable. In the absence of deletions, alternative 4a) to apply.
 
5.
Notices, time and place of delivery
 
a)
The Sellers shall keep the Buyers well informed of the Vessel’s itinerary and shall provide the Buyers with 20,15, and 7, 5,2 daysapproximate and 1 definite notice of the estimated time of arrival at the ________________ intended place of drydocking/underwater inspection/delivery. When the Vessel is at the place of delivery and in every respect physically ready for delivery in accordance with this Agreement, the Sellers shall give the Buyers a written Notice of Readiness for delivery.
 
b)
The Vessel shall be delivered and taken over safely afloat at a safe and accessible berth or anchorage at/ina port worldwide (range/s to be advised)  ______________________________________________________________ in the Sellers’ option.
 
Expected time of delivery: as soon as practically possible following the Effective Date of the Merger (as defined in the Supplemental Agreement referenced in Clause 25) but not later than the last discharging port of the last laden voyage _________________
 
Date of cancelling (see Clauses 5 c), 6 b) (iii) and 14):as per Supplemental Agreement referenced in Clause 25
 
c)
If the Sellers anticipate that, notwithstanding the exercise of duo diligence by them, the Vessel will not be ready for delivery by the cancelling date they may notify the Buyers in writing stating the date when they anticipate that the Vessel will be ready for delivery and propose a new cancelling date. Upon receipt of such notification the Buyers shall have the option of either cancelling this Agreement in accordance with Clause 14 within 7 running days of receipt of the notice or of accepting the new date as the now cancelling date. If the Buyers have not declared their option within 7 running days of receipt of the Sellers’ notification or if the Buyers accept the new date, the date proposed in the Sellers’ notification shall be deemed to be the new cancelling date and shall be substituted for the cancelling date stipulated in line 61.
 

 
If this Agreement is maintained with the new cancelling date all other terms and conditions hereof including those contained in Clauses 5 a) and 5 c) shall remain unaltered and in full force and effect. Cancellation or failure to cancel shall be entirely without prejudice to any claim for damages the Buyers may have under Clause 14 for the Vessel not being ready by the original cancelling date.
 
d)
Should the Vessel become an actual, constructive or compromised total loss before delivery the deposit together- with interest earned shall be released immediately to the Buyers where after this Agreement shall be null and void.
 
6.
Drydocking/ Divers InspectionSee Game 19
 
a)**
The Sellers shall place the Vessel in drydock at the port of delivery for inspection by the Classification Society of the Vassel’s underwater parts below the deepest load line, the extent of the inspection being in accordance with the Classification Society’s rules. If the rudder, propeller, bottom or other underwater parts below the deepest load line are found broken, damaged or defective so as to affect the Vessels  class, such defects shall be made good at the Sellers’ expense to the satisfaction of the Classification Society without condition/recommendation*.
 
b)**
(i) The Vessel is to be delivered without drydocking. However, the Buyers shall have the right at their expense to arrange for an underwater inspection by a diver approved by the Classification Society prior to the delivery of the Vessel. The Sellers shall at their cost make the Vessel available for such inspection. The extent of the inspection and the conditions under which it is performed shall be to the satisfaction of the Classification Society. If the conditions at the port of delivery are unsuitable for such inspection, the Sellers shall make the Vessel available at a suitable alternative place near to the delivery port.
 
(ii) If the rudder, propeller, bottom or other underwater parts below the deepest load line are found broken, damaged or defective so as to affect the Vessel’s class, then unless repairs can be carried out afloat to the satisfaction of the Classification Society, the Sellers shall arrange for the Vessel to be drydocked at their expense for inspection by the Classification Society of the Vessel’s underwater parts below the deepest load line, the extent of the inception being in accordance with the Classification Society’s rules. If the rudder, propeller, bottom or other underwater parts below the deepest load line are found broken, damaged or defective so as to affect the Vessel’s class, such defects shall be made good by the- Sellers at their expense to the satisfaction of the Classification Society without condition/recommendation*. In such event the Sellers are to pay also for the cost of the underwater inspection and the Classification Society’s attendance.
 
(iii) If the Vessel is to be drydocked pursuant to Clause 6 b) (ii) and no suitable dry docking facilities are available at the port of delivery, the Sellers shall take the Vessel to a port where suitable drydocking facilities are available, whether within or outside the delivery range as per Clause 5 b). Once drydocking has taken place the Sellers shall deliver the Vessel at a port within the delivery range as per Clause 5 b) which shall, for the purpose of this clause, become the new port of delivery. In such event the cancelling date provided for in Clause 5 b) shall be extended by the additional time required for the drydocking and extra steaming, but limited to a maximum of 14 running days.
 
c)
If the Vessel is drydocked pursuant to Clause 6 a) or 6 b) above
 
(i) the Classification Society may require survey of the tail shaft system, the extent of the survey being to the satisfaction of the Classification surveyor. If such survey is not required by the Classification Society, the Buyers shall have the right to require the tailshaft to be drawn and surveyed by the Classification Society, the extent of the survey being in accordance with the Classification Society’s rules for -tail shaft survey and consistent with the current stage of the Vessel’s survey cycle. The Buyers shall declare whether they require the tailshaft to be drawn and surveyed not later than by the completion of the inspection by the Classification Society. The drawing and refitting of the tailshaft shall be arranged by the Sellers. Should any parts of the tailshaft system be condemned or found defective so as to affect the Vessel’s class, those parts shall be renewed or made good to the sellers’ expense to the satisfaction of the Classification Society without condition/recommendation*.
 
(ii) the expenses relating to the survey of the tail shaft system shall be borne by the Buyers unless the Classification Society requires such survey to the carried out, in which case the Sellers shall pay those expenses. The Sellers shall also pay the expenses if the Buyer require the survey and parts of the system are condemned or found defective or broken so as to affect the Vessel’s class*.
 

 
(iii) the expenses in connection with putting the Vessel in and taking her out of drydock, including the drydock dues and the Classification Society’s fees shall be paid by the Sellers if the Classification Society issues any condition/recommendation* as a result of the survey or if it requires survey of the tailshaft system. In all other cases the Buyers shall pay the aforesaid expenses, dues and fees.
 
(iv) the Buyers’ representative shall have the right to be present in the drydock, but without interfering with the work or decisions of the Classification surveyor.
 
(v) the Buyers shall have the right to have the underwater parts of the Vessel cleaned and painted at their risk and expense without interfering with the Sellers’ or the Classification surveyor’s work, if any, and without affecting the Vessel’s timely delivery. If, however, the Buyers’ work in drydock is still in progress when the Sellers have completed the work which the Sellers are required to do, the additional docking time needed to complete the Buyers’ work shall be for the Buyers’ risk and expense. In the event that the Buyers’ work requires such additional time, the Sellers may upon completion of the Sellers’ work tender Notice of Readiness for delivery whilst the Vessel is still in drydock and the Buyers shall be obliged to take delivery in accordance with Clause 3, whether the Vessel is in drydock or not and irrespective of Clause 5 b).
 
*
Notes, if any, in the surveyor’s report which are accepted by the Classification Society without condition/recommendation are not to be taken into account.
 
**
6 a) and 6 b) are alternatives; delete whichever is not applicable. In the absence of deletions, alternative 6 a) to apply.
 
7.
Spares/bunkers, etc.
 
The Sellers shall deliver the Vessel to the Buyers with everything belonging to her on board and on shore. All spare parts and spare equipment including spare tail-end shaft(s) and/or spare propeller(s)/propeller blade(s), if any, belonging to the Vessel at the time of inspection used or unused, whether on board or not shall become the Buyers’ property, but spares on order are to be excluded. Forwarding charges, if any, shall be for the Buyers’ account. The Sellers are not required to replace spare parts including spare tail-end shaft(s) and spare propeller(s)/propeller blade(s) which are taken out of spare and used as replacement prior to delivery, but the replaced items shall be the property of the Buyers. The radio installation and navigational equipment shall be included in the sale without extra payment if they are the property of the Sellers. Unused stores and provisions shall be included in the sale and be taken over by the Buyers without extra payment.
 
The Sellers have the right to take ashore crockery, plates, cutlery, linen and other articles bearing the Sellers’ flag or name, provided they replace same with similar unmarked items. Library, forms, etc., exclusively for use in the Sellers’ vessel(s), shall be excluded without compensation. Captain’s, Officers’ and Crew’s personal belongings including the slop chest are to be excluded from the sale, as well as the following additional items (including items on hire): To Be Advised
 
The Buyers shall take over the remaining bunkers (if same are property of the Sellers)and unused lubricating oils in storage tanks and _____________________ sealed drums and pay the current not market price (excluding barging expenses) at the port and date of delivery of the Vessel.See Clause 20 _________________________________ Payment under this Clause shall be made at the same time and place and in the same currency as the Purchase Price.
 
8.
Documentation
 
 The place of closing: New York, USA
 

 
In exchange for payment of the Purchase Price the Sellers shall furnish the Buyers with delivery documents, namely:

 
a)
Legal Bill of Sale in a form recordable in Marshall Islands (the country in which the Buyers are to register the Vessel), warranting that the Vessel is free from all encumbrances, mortgages and maritime liens or any other debts or claims whatsoever, duly notarially attested and legalized by the consul of such country or other competent authority.
 
b)
Current Certificate of Ownership issued by the competent authorities of the flag state of the Vessel.
 
c)
Confirmation of Class issued within 72 hours3 working days prior to delivery.
 
d)
Current Certificate issued by the competent authorities stating that the Vessel is free from registered encumbrances.
 
e)
Certificate of Deletion of the Vessel from the Vessel’s registry or other official evidence of deletion appropriate to the Vessel’s registry at the time of delivery, or, in the event that the registry does not as a matter of practice issue such documentation immediately, a written undertaking by the Sellers to effect deletion from the Vessel’s registry forthwith and furnish a Certificate or other official evidence of deletion to the Buyers promptly and latest within 4 (four) weeks after the Purchase Price has been paid and the Vessel has been delivered.
 
f)
Any such additional documents as may reasonably be required by the competent authorities for the purpose of registering the Vessel, provided the Buyers notify the Sellers of any such documents as soon as possible after the date of this Agreement. See Clause 22
 
At the time of delivery the Buyers and Sellers shall sign and deliver to each other a Protocol of Delivery and Acceptance confirming the date and time of delivery of the Vessel from the Sellers to the Buyers. 
 
At the time of delivery the Sellers shall hand to the Buyers the classification certificate(s) as well as all plans, instruction books, maintenance records etc., which are on board the Vessel. Other certificates which are on board the Vessel shall also  ________________________________ be handed over to the Buyers unless the Sellers are required to retain same, in which case the Buyers to have the right to take copies. Other technical documentation which may be in the Sellers’ possession shall be promptly forwarded to the Buyers at their expense, if they so request. The Sellers may keep the Vessel’s log books but the Buyers to have the right to take copies of same.
 
9.
Encumbrances
 
The Sellers warrant that the Vessel, at the time of delivery, is free from all charters (other than term employment/charters contemplated by the Supplemental Agreement referenced in Clause 25), encumbrances,  _____________________________________________________________________ mortgages and maritime liens or any other debts whatsoever. The Sellers hereby undertake to indemnify the Buyers against all consequences of claims made against the Vessel which have been incurred prior to the time of delivery. The Vessel on delivery to be delivered free of cargo /cargo residues, and free of any dunnage.
 
10.
Taxes, etc.
 
Any taxes, fees and expenses in connection with the purchase and registration under the Buyers’ flag shall be for the Buyers’ account, whereas similar charges in connection with the closing of the Sellers’ register shall be for the Sellers’ account.
 
11.
Condition on delivery
 
The Vessel with everything belonging to her shall be at the Sellers’ risk and expense until she is delivered to the Buyers, but subject to the terms and conditions of this Agreement she shall be delivered and taken over as she was at the time of inspection, fair wear and tear excepted. However, the Vessel shall be delivered with her class maintained without condition/recommendation*, free of average damage affecting the Vessel’s class, and with her classification certificates and International/national certificates andsurveys, as well as all other certificates the Vessel had at the time of agreement inspection, valid and unextended without condition/recommendation* by Class or the relevant authorities for a minimum of 1 month from at the time of _______________ delivery.
 

 
“Inspection” in this Clause 11 and in Clause 7, Line 157, shall mean the Buyers’ inspection according to Clause 4 a) or 4 b), if  _________________________________ applicable, or the Buyers’ inspection prior to the signing of this Agreement. If the Vessel is taken over without inspection, the date of this Agreement shall be the relevant date.
 
*
Notes, if any, in the surveyor’s report which are accepted by the Classification Society without condition/recommendation are not to be taken into account.
 
12.
Name/markings 
 
Upon delivery the Buyers undertake to change the name of the Vessel and alter funnel markings.
 
13.
Buyers’ default
 
Should the deposit not be paid in accordance with Clause 2, the Sellers have the right to cancel this Agreement, and they shall be entitled to claim compensation for their losses and for all expenses incurred together with interest. 
 
Should the Purchase Price not be paid in accordance with Clause 3, the Sellers have the right to cancel the Agreement, in which case the deposit together with interest earned shall be released to the Sellers. If the deposit does not cover their loss, the Sellers shall be entitled to claim further compensation for their losses and for all expenses incurred together with interest.
 
14.
Sellers’ default as per Supplemental Agreement referenced in Clause 25
 
Should the Sellers fail to give Notice of Readiness in accordance with Clause 5 a) or fail to be ready to validly complete a legal transfer by the date stipulated in line 61 the Buyers shall have the option of cancelling this Agreement provided always that the Sellers shall be granted a maximum of 3 banking days after Notice of Readiness has boon given to make arrangements for the documentation set out in Clause 8. If after Notice of Readiness has been given but before the Buyers have taken delivery, the Vessel ceaces to be physically ready for delivery and is not made physically ready again in every respect by the date stipulated in line 61 and new Notice of Readiness given, the Buyers shall retain their option to cancel. In the event that the Buyers elect to cancel this Agreement the deposit together with interest earned shall be released to thorn immediately. 
 
Should the Sellers fail to give Notice of Readiness by the date stipulated in line 61 or fail to be ready to validly complete a legal transfer as aforesaid they shall make duo compensation to the Buyers for their loss and for all expenses together with interest if their failure is due to proven negligence and whether or not the Buyers cancel this Agreement.
 
15.
Buyers’ representatives See Clause 21
 
After this Agreement has been signed by both parties and the deposit has boon lodged, the Buyers have the right to place two representatives on board the Vessel at their sole risk and expense upon arrival at  ___________________ on or about  _____________________________________________________________________ Those representatives are on board for the purpose of familiarisation and in the capacity of observers only, and they shall not interfere in any respect with the operation of the Vessel, The Buyers’ representatives shall sign the Sellers’ letter of indemnity prior to their embarkation.
 
16.
Arbitration
 
a*)
This Agreement shall be governed by and construed in accordance with English law and any dispute arising out of this Agreement shall be referred to arbitration in London in accordance with the Arbitration Acts 1950 and 1979 or any statutory modification or re-enactment thereof for the time being in force, one arbitrator being appointed by each party. On the receipt by one party of the nomination in writing of the other party’s arbitrator, that party shall appoint their arbitrator within fourteen days, failing which the decision of the single arbitrator appointed shall apply. If two arbitrators properly appointed shall not agree they shall appoint an umpire whoso decision shall be final.
 

 
b)*
This Agreement shall be governed by and construed in accordance with Title 9 of the United States Code and the Law of the State of New York and should any dispute arise out of this Agreement, the matter in dispute shall be referred to three persons at New York, one to be appointed by each of the parties hereto, and the third by the two so chosen; their decision or that of any two of them shall be final, and for purpose of enforcing any award, this Agreement may be made a rule of the Court. 
 
The proceedings shall be conducted in accordance with the rules of the Society of Maritime Arbitrators, Inc. New York.
 
c)*
Any dispute arising out of this Agreement shall be referred to arbitration at _______________________________________, subject to the procedures applicable there. The laws of ____________________________________shall govern this Agreement.
 
*
16 a), 16 b) and 16 c) are alternatives; delete whichever is not applicable. In the absence of deletions, alternative 16 a) to apply.
 
Clauses 17-25 both inclusive are deemed are part of this agreement
 
This Charter Party is a computer generated copy of the “SALEFORM 1993” form printed by authority of Norwegian Shipbrokers’ Association using software which is the copyright of Strategic Software Ltd. Any insertion or deletion to the form must be clearly visible. In the event of any modification made to the preprinted text of this document which is not clearly visible, the text of the original approved document shall apply. Norwegian Shipbrokers’ Association and Strategic Software Ltd. assume no responsibility for any loss or damage caused as a result of discrepancies between the original approved document and this document.
 

 
ADDITIONAL CLAUSES
TO THE MEMORANDUM OF AGREEMENT - SALE FORM 1993
DATED JANUARY 12, 2007 FOR M.V. ‘I DUCKLING’ (THE VESSEL)
BETWEEN I DUCKLING CORPORATION. PANAMA (THE SELLERS)
AND STAR BULK CARRIERS CORP. MARSHALL ISLANDS OR
NOMINEE (THE BUYERS)
 
CLAUSE 17
 
This sale is part of the sale and delivery of the following additional Motor Vessels:
 
M.V. “A Duckling”
M.V. “B Duckling”
M.V. “C Duckling”
M.V.“F Duckling”
M.V. “G Duckling”
M.V. “J Duckling”
M.V. “Mommy Duckling”
 
registered in the respective ownership of the following Owners:
 
A Duckling Corporation, Panama
B Duckling Corporation, Panama
C Duckling Corporation, Panama
F Duckling Corporation, Panama
G Duckling Corporation, Panama
J Duckling Corporation, Panama
Mommy Management Corp., Panama
 
and all ultimately beneficially owned by TMT Co., Ltd., Taiwan (“TMT”). In the event that one or more of the above vessels are not delivered pursuant to their respective MOA’s for any reason whatsoever, TMT hereby agrees and assumes the obligation to substitute the non-delivered vessel(s) with replacement tonnage pursuant and subject to the terms of the Supplemental Agreement referenced in Clause 25.
 
CLAUSE 18
 
This sale is subject to:
 
i)
STAR MARITIME ACQUISITION CORP. Delaware (“Star Maritime”) a listed company in the AMEX being the parent company of the Buyers filing a definitive proxy/registration statement (the “Registration Statement”) with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”) and such Registration Statement being declared effective by the SEC.
 

 
ii)
Star Maritime obtaining the requisite approval of its stockholders for the Merger (as defined in Supplemental Agreement referenced in Clause 25) and the sale of the vessels provided for in the Supplemental Agreement referenced in Clause 25 at a duly convened stockholders’ meeting.
 
CLAUSE 19
 
No dry-docking / however the Buyers have the right at Buyers’ expense to carry out an under-water (defined as ‘parts below the sea water line at time of divers inspection’) inspection prior to or at the delivery port and the Sellers shall make the vessel available for such under-water inspection. Inspection of underwater parts shall be carried out by divers approved by the class with the presence of class surveyor and the Sellers/Buyers representatives. Such diver inspection shall be carried out in a manner acceptable to class surveyor. If the conditions at the port of delivery are unsuitable for such inspection, the Sellers shall make the Vessel available at a suitable alternative place near the delivery port.
 
In the event of any damage/s being found which lead to a recommendation by the classification society and immediate repairs are required, the Sellers shall then dry-dock the Vessel in accordance with clause 6 of the Norwegian Sale Form 1993, and Sellers shall repair same to class satisfaction. Cancelling date to be extended accordingly.
 
If damage/s are found which lead to a recommendation by the classification society, repair/s of which maybe be carried out by the Buyers at a later stage, as per classification society recommendation, then in lieu of Buyers taking delivery of the Vessel with said recommendation/s the Sellers shall pay to the Buyers the estimated repairing direct cost - this amount will be deducted from the purchase price on delivery.
 
This estimated repairing direct cost shall be the average cost of 2 quotations from reputable yards/repair shops at or near the delivery port, 1 obtained by Buyers and 1 obtained by Sellers determined in accordance with the cost of such repairs prevailing at the time of delivery of the Vessel, for repair works only without dry-docking costs and without costs of possible time lost, and in any case for the direct cost/s only.
 
It is understood that class shall be the sole arbiter in any matter under this Clause 19 affecting the Vessel’s class.
 
The costs of class surveyor’s fee and diver inspection will be for the Buyers’ account.
 
CLAUSE 20
 
The Buyers are to pay extra for unused/unbroached lubricating oils in drums and designated storage tanks ‘remaining on board’ as per actual cost evidenced by net invoice prices including discounts. Also extra payment for bunkers ‘remaining on board’ at the Sellers’ last paid prices (either bought in the open market or paid to last charterers)
 

 
CLAUSE 21
 
As from the Effective Date of Merger (as defined in the Supplemental Agreement referenced in Clause 25) Buyers shall have the right to place onboard up to a maximum of three (3) representatives until delivery as observers for familiarisation purposes only without interference to the Vessel’s operation at Buyer’s risk and expense. Representatives are to sign Sellers’ indemnity form. Sellers shall assist where necessary in the application for visas for Buyer’s ongoing representatives. Upon Vessel’s arrival at the delivery port Buyers shall have the right to place on board three (3) more representatives on a daily basis up until delivery. Buyers representatives to have the right to communicate with their office / managers via the Vessel’s communication means always at Buyers’ cost. The Buyers’ representatives shall have full access to Vessel’s all non-private spaces, as well as to instruction books, plans, certificates, records, documents, plans, drawings and shall have the right to take photocopies of same but should not interfere with the Vessel’s cargo discharge operations, if any.
 
CLAUSE 22
 
Sellers and Buyers to supply documentation which may be reasonably required and to be mutually agreed for the legal transfer of the Vessel and for her Marshall Islands registration under new flag and ownership (such list to form an addendum to the MOA).
 
At the time of delivery, in addition to other documents to be agreed per this clause, Buyers shall furnish Sellers with the following delivery documents:
 
(i)
Novation Agreement duly executed by Buyers;
 
(ii)
Secretary’s Certificate of Buyers authorizing this MOA, the Supplemental Agreement and the Novation Agreement in respect of the charter of the Vessel, together with incumbency certificates; and
 
(iii)
Secretary’s Certificate of each of Star Maritime and Star Bulk authorizing the Master Agreement, the Supplemental Agreement and this MOA, together with incumbency certificates.
 
At the time of delivery, in addition to other documents to be agreed per this clause, Sellers shall furnish Buyers with the following delivery documents:
 
(i)
Novation Agreement duly executed by Sellers and the charterer;
 
(ii)
Secretary’s Certificate of Sellers authorizing this MOA, the Supplemental Agreement and the Novation Agreement in respect of the charter of the Vessel, together with incumbency certificates; and
 
(iii)
Secretary’s Certificate of each of TMT authorizing the Master Agreement, the Supplemental Agreement and this MOA, together with incumbency certificates.
 
CLAUSE 23
 
Sellers warrant that on the date hereof and on the date of closing, the Vessel shall be entitled to trade worldwide within Institute Warranty Limits without restriction on limitation.
 

 
CLAUSE 24
 
All instruction books, drawings, plans and manuals, on board or ashore in owners/managers office that are in Sellers possession are to be delivered to the Buyers except ISM manuals and ship security plan. The Sellers to forward office set as soon as possible after delivery to the Buyer’s office. All forwarding costs to be for Buyers account.

CLAUSE 25
 
This agreement is one of the “MOAs” referred to and defined in (i) that certain Supplemental Agreement dated the date hereof and executed and delivered concurrently herewith by and among Buyers, Star Maritime as the 100pct parent of the Buyers, and TMT, the 100pct parent of the Sellers and is incorporated herein by reference, and (ii) the Master Agreement dated the date hereof and executed and delivered concurrently herewith by TMT, Buyers and Star Maritime, and is incorporated by reference. If there is any inconsistency between the terms of this agreement and the terms of said Supplemental Agreement and/or said Master Agreement, the terms of said Supplemental Agreement and said Master Agreement shall control.


THE SELLERS
THE BUYERS
   
/s/ Nobu Su
/s/ Prokopios Tsirigakis
____________________
_____________________
 

Appendix G
 

MEMORANDUM OF AGREEMENT
 
Dated: January 12, 2007
Norwegian Shipbrokers’ Association’s Memorandum of Agreement for sale and purchase of ships. Adopted by The Baltic and International Maritime Council (BIMCO) in 1956.
Code-name
SALEFORM 1993
Revised 1966, 1983 and 1986/87.
 
J Duckling Corporation, Panama
hereinafter called the Sellers, have agreed to sell, and Star Bulk Carriers Corp., Majuro - Marshall Islands or nominee 
 
hereinafter called the Buyers, have agreed to buy-
 
Name: J.DUCKLING
 
Classification Society/Class:  BUREAU VERITAS
 
Built: JUNE, 2003    By: TSUNEISHI HEAVY INDUSTRIES (CEBU) INC., PHILIPPINES
 
Flag: PANAMA    Place of Registration: PANAMA
 
Call Sign: 3EGV7    Grt/Nrt: 30,054/18,207
 
Register Number IMO Number: 9266449
 
hereinafter called the Vessel, on the following terms and conditions:
 
Definitions
 
“Banking days” are days on which banks are open both in the country of the currency stipulated for the Purchase Price in Clause 1 and in the place of closing stipulated in Clause 8.
 
“In writing” or “written” means a letter handed over from the Sellers to the Buyers or vice versa, a registered letter, telex, telefax or other modern form of written communication.
 
“Classification Society” or “Class” means the Society referred to in line 4.
 
1.
Purchase Price USD 43,985,817.36
 
2.
Deposit
 
As security for the correct fulfillment of this Agreement the Buyers Shall pay a deposit of 10 % (ten per cent) of the Purchase Price within _______________________ banking days from the date of this Agreement. This deposit shall be placed with _________________ and held by them in a joint account for the Sellers and the Buyers, to be released in accordance with joint written instructions of the Sellers and the Buyers. Interest, if any, to be credited to the Buyers. Any fee charged for holding the said deposit shall be borne equally by the Sellers and the Buyers.
 
3.
Payment
 
The said Purchase Price shall be paid in full free of bank charges to ______________________ on delivery of the Vessel, but not later than 3 banking days after the Vessel is in every respect physically ready for delivery in accordance with the terms and conditions of this Agreement and Notice of Readiness has been given in accordance with Clause 5.The Purchase Price shall be paid as provided in the Supplemental Agreement referenced in Clause 25.
 

 
4.
Inspections
 
a)*
The Buyers have inspected and accepted the Vessel’s classification records. The Buyers have also inspected the Vessel at/in _______________ on _______________ and have accepted the Vessel following this inspection and the sale is outright and definite, subject only to the terms and conditions of this Agreement.
 
b)*
The Buyers shall have the right to inspect the Vessel and Vessel’s classification records and declare at a suitable place at the Buyers’ option. However these inspections are not a subject and once the subjects stipulated in clause 18 are lifted the sale becomes outright and definite, subject to the provisons of the Supplemental Agreement referenced in Claus 25. whether same are accepted or not within
 
The Sellers shall provide for inspection of the Vessel at/in (to be advised by Sellers)
 
The Buyers shall undertake the inspection without undue delay to the Vessel. Should the Buyers cause undue delay they shall compensate the Sellers for the losses thereby incurred. The Buyers shall inspect the Vessel without opening up and without cost to the Sellers. During the inspection, the Vessel’s deck, instruction books, maintenance records, and engine log books as available on board shall be made available for ______________________ examination by the Buyers. If the Vessel is accepted after such inspection, the sale shall become outright and definite, subject only to the terms and conditions of this Agreement provided the Sellers receive written notice of acceptance from the Buyers within 72 hours after completion of such inspection.
 
Should notice of acceptance of the Vessel’s classification records and of the Vessel not be received by the Sellers as aforesaid, the deposit together with interest earned shall be released immediately to the Buyers, whereafter this Agreement shall be null and void.
 
*
4 a) and 4b) are alternatives; delete whichever is not applicable. In the absence of deletions, alternative 4a) to apply.
 
5.
Notices, time and place of delivery
 
a)
The Sellers shall keep the Buyers well informed of the Vessel’s itinerary and shall provide the Buyers with 20 , 15, and 7, 5,2 days approximate and 1 definite notice of the estimated time of arrival at the _________________________ intended place of drydocking/underwater inspection/delivery. When the Vessel is at the place of delivery and in every respect physically ready for delivery in accordance with this Agreement, the Sellers shall give the Buyers a written Notice of Readiness for delivery.
 
b)
The Vessel shall be delivered and taken over safely afloat at a safe and accessible berth or anchorage at/in a port worldwide (range/s to be advised) __________________ in the Sellers’ option.
 
Expected time of delivery: as soon as practically possible following the Effective Date of the Merger (as defined in the Supplemental Agreement referenced in Clause 25) but not later than the last discharging port of the last laden voyage
 
Date of cancelling (see Clauses 5 c), 6 b) (iii) and 14): as per Supplemental Agreement referenced in Clause 25
 
c)
If the Seller anticipate that, notwithstanding the exercise of due diligence by them, the Vessel will not be ready for delivery by the cancelling date they may notify the Buyers writing stating the date when they anticipate that the Vessel will be ready for delivery and propose a new cancelling date. Upon receipt of such notification the Buyers shall have the option of either cancelling this Agreement in accordance with Clause 14 within 7 running days of receipt of the notice or of accepting the new date as the new cancelling date. If the Buyer have not declared their option within 7 running days of receipt of the Sellers’ notification or if the Buyers accept the new date, the date proposed in the Sellers’ notification shall be deemed to be the new cancelling date and shall be substituted for the cancelling date stipulated in line 61.
 

 
If this Agreement is maintained with the new cancelling date all other terms and conditions hereof including these contained in Clauses 5 a) and 5 c) shall remain unaltered and in full force and effect. Cancellation or failure to cancel shall be entirely without prejudice to any claim for damages the Buyers may have under Clause 14 for the Vessel not being ready by the original cancelling date.
 
d)
Should the Vessel become an actual, constructive or compromised total loss before delivery the deposit together with interest earned shall be released immediately to the Buyers whereafter this Agreement shall be null and void.
 
6.
Drydocking/Divers Inspection See Clause 19
 
a)**
The Sellers shall place the Vessel in drydock at the port of delivery for inspection by the Classification Society of the Vessel’s underwater parts below the deepest load line, the extent of the inspection being in accordance with the Classification Society’s rules. If the rudder, propeller, bottom or other underwater parts below the deepest load line are found broken, damaged or defective so as to affect the Vessel’s class, such defects shall be made good at the Sellers’ expense to the satisfaction of the Classification Society without condition/recommendation*.
 
b)**
(i) The Vessel is to be delivered without drydocking. However, the Buyers shall have the right at their expense to arrange for an underwater inspection by a diver approved by the Classification Society prior to the delivery of the Vessel. The Sellers shall at their cost make the Vessel available for such inspection. The extent of the inspection and the conditions under which it is performed shall be to the satisfaction of the Classification Society. If the conditions at the port of delivery are unsuitable for such inspection, the Sellers shall make the Vessel available at a suitable alternative place near to the delivery port.
 
(ii) If the rudder, propeller, bottom or other underwater parts below the deepest load line are found broken, damaged or defective so as to affect the Vessel’s class, then unless repairs can be carried out afloat to the satisfaction of the Classification Society, the Sellers shall arrange for the Vessel to be drydocked at their expense for inspection by the Classification Society of the Vessel’s underwater parts below the deepest load line, the extent of the inspection being in accordance with the Classification Society’s rules. If the rudder, propeller, bottom or other underwater parts below the deepest load line are found broken, damaged or defective so as to affect the Vessel’s class, such defects shall be made good by the Sellers at their expense to the satisfaction of the Classification Society without condition/recommendation*. In such event the Sellers are to pay also for the cost of the underwater inspection and the Classification Society’s attendance.
 
(iii) If the Vessel is to be drydocked pursuant to Clause 6 b) (ii) and no suitable drydocking facilities are available at the port of delivery, the Sellers shall take the Vessel to a port where suitable drydocking facilities are available, whether within or outside the delivery range as per Clause 5 b). Once drydocking has taken place the Sellers shall deliver the Vessel at a port within the delivery range as per Clause 5 b) which shall, for the purpose of this Clause, become the new port of delivery. In such event the cancelling date provided for in Clause 5 b) shall be extended by the additional time required for the drydocking and extra steaming, but limited to a maximum of 14 running days.
 
c)
If the Vessel is drydocked pursuant to Clause 6 a) or 6 b) above
 
(i) the Classification Society may require survey of the tailshaft system, the extent of the survey being to the satisfaction of the Classification surveyor. If such survey is not required by the Classification Society, the Buyers shall have the right to require the tailshaft to be drawn and surveyed by the Classification Society, the extent of the survey being in accordance with the Classification Society’s rules for tailshaft survey and consistent with the current stage of the Vessel’s survey cycle. The Buyers shall declare whether they require the tailshaft to be drawn and surveyed not later than by the completion of the inspection by the Classification Society. The drawing and refitting of the tailshaft shall be arranged by the Sellers. Should any parts of the tailshaft system be condemned or found defective so as to affect the Vessel’s class, these parts shall be renewed or made good at the Sellers’ expense to the satisfaction of the Classification Society without condition/recommendation*.
 
(ii) the expenses relating to the survey of the tailshaft system shall be borne by the Buyers unless the Classification Society requires such survey to be carried out, in which case the Sellers shall pay these expenses. The Sellers shall also pay the expenses if the Buyers require the survey and parts of the system are condemned or found defective or broken so as to affect the Vessel’s class*.
 

 
(iii) the expenses in connection with putting the Vessel in and taking her out of drydock, including the drydock dues and the Classification Society’s fees shall be paid by the Sellers if the Classification Society issues any condition/recommendation* as a result of the survey or if it requires survey of the tailshaft system. In all other cases the Buyers shall pay the aforesaid expenses, dues and fees.
 
(iv) the Buyers’ representative shall have the right to be present in the drydock, but without interfering with the work or decisions of the Classification surveyor.
 
(v) the Buyers shall have the right to have the underwater parts of the Vessel cleaned and painted at their risk and expense without interfering with the Sellers’ or the Classification surveyor’s work, if any, and without affecting the Vessel’s timely delivery. If, however, the Buyers’ work in drydock is still in progress when the Sellers have completed the work which the Sellers are required to do, the additional docking time needed to complete the Buyers’ work shall be for the Buyers’ risk and expense. In the event that the Buyers’ work requires such additional time, the Sellers may upon completion of the Sellers’ work tender Notice of Readiness for delivery whilst the Vessel is still in drydock and the Buyers shall be obliged to take delivery in accordance with Clause 3, whether the Vessel is in drydock or not and irrespective of Clause 5 b).
 
*
Notes, if any, in the surveyor’s report which are accepted by the Classification Society without condition/recommendation are not to be taken into account.
 
**
6 a) and 6 b) are alternatives; delete whichever is not applicable. In the absence of deletions, alternative 6 a) to apply.
 
7.
Spares/bunkers, etc.
 
The Sellers shall deliver the Vessel to the Buyers with everything belonging to her on board and on shore. All spare parts and spare equipment including spare tail-end shaft(s) and/or spare propeller(s)/propeller blade(s), if any, belonging to the Vessel at the time of inspection used or unused, whether on board or not shall become the Buyers’ property, but spares on order are to be excluded. Forwarding charges, if any, shall be for the Buyers’ account. The Sellers are not required to replace spare parts including spare tail-end shaft(s) and spare propeller(s)/propeller blade(s) which are taken out of spare and used as replacement prior to delivery, but the replaced items shall be the property of the Buyers. The radio installation and navigational equipment shall be included in the sale without extra payment if they are the property of the Sellers. Unused stores and provisions shall be included in the sale and be taken over by the Buyers without extra payment.
 
The Sellers have the right to take ashore crockery, plates, cutlery, linen and other articles bearing the Sellers’ flag or name, provided they replace same with similar unmarked items. Library, forms, etc., exclusively for use in the Sellers’ vessel(s), shall be excluded without compensation. Captain’s, Officers’ and Crew’s personal belongings including the slop chest are to be excluded from the sale, as well as the following additional items (including items on hire): To Be Advised
 
The Buyers shall take over the remaining bunkers (if same are property of the Sellers) and unused lubricating oils in storage tanks and _______________________ sealed drums and pay the current net market price (excluding barging expenses) at the port and date of delivery of the Vessel. See Clause 20 
 
Payment under this Clause shall be made at the same time and place and in the same currency as the Purchase Price.
 
8.
Documentation
 
The place of closing: New York, USA
 
In exchange for payment of the Purchase Price the Sellers shall furnish the Buyers with delivery documents, namely:
 

 
a)
Legal Bill of Sale in a form recordable in Marshall Islands (the country in which the Buyers are to register the Vessel), warranting that the Vessel is free from all encumbrances, mortgages and maritime liens or any other debts or claims whatsoever, duly notarially attested and legalized by the consul of such country or other competent authority.
 
b)
Current Certificate of Ownership issued by the competent authorities of the flag state of the Vessel.
 
c)
Confirmation of Class issued within 72 hours 3 working days prior to delivery.
 
d)
Current Certificate issued by the competent authorities stating that the Vessel is free from registered encumbrances.
 
e)
Certificate of Deletion of the Vessel from the Vessel’s registry or other official evidence of deletion appropriate to the Vessel’s registry at the time of delivery, or, in the event that the registry does not as a matter of practice issue such documentation immediately, a written undertaking by the Sellers to effect deletion from the Vessel’s registry forthwith and furnish a Certificate or other official evidence of deletion to the Buyers promptly and latest within 4 (four) weeks after the Purchase Price has been paid and the Vessel has been delivered.
 
f)
Any such additional documents as may reasonably be required by the competent authorities for the purpose of registering the Vessel, provided the Buyers notify the Sellers of any such documents as soon as possible after the date of this Agreement.
See Clause 22
 
At the time of delivery the Buyers and Sellers shall sign and deliver to each other a Protocol of Delivery and Acceptance confirming the date and time of delivery of the Vessel from the Sellers to the Buyers.
 
At the time of delivery the Sellers shall hand to the Buyers the classification certificate(s) as well as all plans, instruction books, maintenance records etc., which are on board the Vessel. Other certificates which are on board the Vessel shall also ________________________________ be handed over to the Buyers unless the Sellers are required to retain same, in which case the Buyers to have the right to take copies. Other technical documentation which may be in the Sellers’ possession shall be promptly forwarded to the Buyers at their expense, if they so request. The Sellers may keep the Vessel’s log books but the Buyers to have the right to take copies of same.
 
9.
Encumbrances
 
The Sellers warrant that the Vessel, at the time of delivery, is free from all charters (other than term employment/charters contemplated by the Supplemental Agreement referenced in Clause 25),encumbrances, _________________________________ mortgages and maritime liens or any other debts whatsoever. The Sellers hereby undertake to indemnify the Buyers against all consequences of claims made against the Vessel which have been incurred prior to the time of delivery. The Vessel on delivery to be delivered free of cargo /cargo residues, and free of any dunnage.
 
10.
Taxes, etc.
 
Any taxes, fees and expenses in connection with the purchase and registration under the Buyers’ flag shall be for the Buyers’ account, whereas similar charges in connection with the closing of the Sellers’ register shall be for the Sellers’ account.
 
11.
Condition on delivery
 
The Vessel with everything belonging to her shall be at the Sellers’ risk and expense until she is delivered to the Buyers, but subject to the terms and conditions of this Agreement she shall be delivered and taken over as she was at the time of inspection, fair wear and tear excepted. However, the Vessel shall be delivered with her class maintained without condition/recommendation*, free of average damage affecting the Vessel’s class, and with her classification certificates and International/national certificates and surveys, as well as all other certificates the Vessel had at the time of agreement inspection, valid and _____________________________________ unextended without condition/recommendation* by Class or the relevant authorities for a minimum of 1 month from at the time of ______________________________ delivery.
 

 
“Inspection” in this Clause 11 and in Clause 7, Line 157, shall mean the Buyers’ inspection according to Clause 4 a) or 4 b), if ___________________________________ applicable, or the Buyers’ inspection prior to the signing of this Agreement. If the Vessel is taken over without inspection, the date of this Agreement shall be the relevant date.
 
*
Notes, if any, in the surveyor’s report which are accepted by the Classification Society without condition/recommendation are not to be taken into account.
 
12.
Name/markings
 
Upon delivery the Buyers undertake to change the name of the Vessel and alter funnel markings.
 
13.
Buyers’ default
 
Should the deposit not be paid in accordance with Clause 2, the Sellers have the right to cancel this Agreement, and they shall be entitled to claim compensation for their losses and for all expenses incurred together with interest. 
 
Should the Purchase Price not be paid in accordance with Clause 3, the Sellers have the right to cancel the Agreement, in which case the deposit together with interest earned shall be released to the Sellers. If the deposit does not cover their loss, the Sellers shall be entitled to claim further compensation for their losses and for all expenses incurred together with interest.
 
14.
Sellers’ default as per Supplemental Agreement referenced in Clause 25
 
Should the Sellers fail to give Notice of Readiness in accordance with Clause 5 a) or fail to be ready to validly complete a legal transfer by the date stipulated in line 61 the Buyers shall have the option of cancelling this Agreement provided always that the Sellers shall be granted a maximum of 3 banking days after Notice of Readiness has been given to make arrangements for the documentation set out in Clause 8. If after Notice of Readiness has been given but before the Buyers have taken delivery, the Vessel ceases to be physically ready for delivery and is not made physically ready again in every respect by the date stipulated in line 61 and now Notice of Readiness given, the Buyers shall retain their option to cancel. In the event that the Buyers elect to cancel this Agreement the deposit together with interest earned shall be released to them immediately.
 
Should the Sellers fail to give Notice of Readiness by the date stipulated in line 61 or fail to be ready to validly complete a legal transfer as aforesaid they shall make due compensation to the Buyers for their loss and for all expenses together with interest if their failure is due to proven negligence and whether or not the Buyers cancel this Agreement.
 
15.
Buyers’ representatives See Clause 21
 
After this Agreement has been signed by both parties and the deposit has been lodged, the Buyers have the right to place two representatives on board the Vessel at their sole risk and expense upon arrival at _________ on or about ______________________These representatives are on board for the purpose of familiarisation and in the capacity of observers only, and they shall not interfere in any respect with the operation of the Vessel. The Buyers’ representatives shall sign the Sellers’ letter of indemnity prior to their embarkation.
 
16.
Arbitration
 
a)*
This Agreement shall be governed by and construed in accordance with English law and any dispute-arising out of this Agreement shall be referred to arbitration in London in accordance with the Arbitration Acts 1950 and 1979 or any statutory modification or re-enactment thereof for the time being in force, one arbitrator being appointed by each party. On the receipt by one party of the nomination in writing of the other party’s arbitrator, that party shall appoint their arbitrator within fourteen days, failing which the decision of the single arbitrator appointed shall apply. If two arbitrators properly appointed shall not agree they shall appoint an umpire whose decision shall be final.
 

 
b)*
This Agreement shall be governed by and construed in accordance with Title 9 of the United States Code and the Law of the State of New York and should any dispute arise out of this Agreement, the matter in dispute shall be referred to three persons at New York, one to be appointed by each of the parties hereto, and the third by the two so chosen; their decision or that of any two of them shall be final; and for purpose of enforcing any award, this Agreement may be made a rule of the Court. 
 
The proceedings shall be conducted in accordance with the rules of the Society of Maritime Arbitrators, Inc. New York.
 
c)*
Any dispute arising out of this Agreement shall be referred to arbitration at ___________________________________, subject to the procedures applicable there. The laws of ___________________________________ shall govern this Agreement.
 
*
16 a), 16 b) and 16 c) are alternatives; delete whichever is not applicable. In the absence of deletions, alternative 16 a) to apply.
 
Clauses 17-25 both inclusive are deemed are part of this agreement
 
This Charter Party is a computer generated copy of the “SALEFORM 1993” form printed by authority of Norwegian Shipbrokers’ Association using software which is the copyright of Strategic Software Ltd. Any insertion or deletion to the form must be clearly visible. In the event of any modification made to the preprinted text of this document which is not clearly visible, the text of the original approved document shall apply. Norwegian Shipbrokers’ Association and Strategic Software Ltd. assume no responsibility for any loss or damage caused as a result of discrepancies between the original approved document and this document.
 

 
ADDITIONAL CLAUSES
TO THE MEMORANDUM OF AGREEMENT - SALE FORM 1993
DATED JANUARY 12, 2007 FOR M.V. ‘J DUCKLING’ (THE VESSEL)
BETWEEN J DUCKLING CORPORATION, PANAMA (THE SELLERS)
AND STAR BULK CARRIERS CORP. MARSHALL ISLANDS OR
NOMINEE (THE BUYERS)
 
CLAUSE 17
 
This sale is part of the sale and delivery of the following additional Motor Vessels:
 
M.V. “A Duckling”
M.V. “B Duckling”
M.V. “C Duckling”
M.V. “F Duckling”
M.V. “G Duckling”
M.V. “I Duckling”
M.V. “Mommy Duckling”
 
registered in the respective ownership of the following Owners:
 
A Duckling Corporation, Panama
B Duckling Corporation, Panama
C Duckling Corporation, Panama
F Duckling Corporation, Panama
G Duckling Corporation, Panama
I Duckling Corporation, Panama
Mommy Management Corp., Panama
 
and all ultimately beneficially owned by TMT Co., Ltd., Taiwan (“TMT”). In the event that one or more of the above vessels are not delivered pursuant to their respective MOA’s for any reason whatsoever, TMT hereby agrees and assumes the obligation to substitute the non-delivered vessel(s) with replacement tonnage pursuant and subject to the terms of the Supplemental Agreement referenced in Clause 25.
 
CLAUSE 18
 
This sale is subject to:
 
i)
STAR MARITIME ACQUISITION CORP. Delaware (“Star Maritime”) a listed company in the AMEX being the parent company of the Buyers filing a definitive proxy/registration statement (the “Registration Statement”) with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”) and such Registration Statement being declared effective by the SEC.
 
 

 
 
ii)
Star Maritime obtaining the requisite approval of its stockholders for the Merger (as defined in Supplemental Agreement referenced in Clause 25) and the sale of the vessels provided for in the Supplemental Agreement referenced in Clause 25 at a duly convened stockholders’ meeting.
 
CLAUSE 19
 
No dry-docking / however the Buyers have the right at Buyers’ expense to carry out an under-water (defined as ‘parts below the sea water line at time of divers inspection’) inspection prior to or at the delivery port and the Sellers shall make the vessel available for such under-water inspection. Inspection of underwater parts shall be carried out by divers approved by the class with the presence of class surveyor and the Sellers/Buyers representatives. Such diver inspection shall be carried out in a manner acceptable to class surveyor. If the conditions at the port of delivery are unsuitable for such inspection, the Sellers shall make the Vessel available at a suitable alternative place near the delivery port.
 
In the event of any damage/s being found which lead to a recommendation by the classification society and immediate repairs are required, the Sellers shall then dry-dock the Vessel in accordance with clause 6 of the Norwegian Sale Form 1993, and Sellers shall repair same to class satisfaction. Cancelling date to be extended accordingly.
 
If damage/s are found which lead to a recommendation by the classification society, repair/s of which may be carried out by the Buyers at a later stage, as per classification society recommendation, then in lieu of Buyers taking delivery of the Vessel with said recommendation/s the Sellers shall pay to the Buyers the estimated repairing direct cost - this amount will be deducted from the purchase price on delivery.
 
This estimated repairing direct cost shall be the average cost of 2 quotations from reputable yards/repair shops at or near the delivery port, 1 obtained by Buyers and 1 obtained by Sellers determined in accordance with the cost of such repairs prevailing at the time of delivery of the Vessel, for repair works only without dry-docking costs and without costs of possible time lost, and in any case for the direct cost/s only.
 
It is understood that class shall be the sole arbiter in any matter under this Clause 19 affecting the Vessel’s class.
 
The costs of class surveyor’s fee and diver inspection will be for the Buyers’ account.
 
CLAUSE 20
 
The Buyers are to pay extra for unused/unbroached lubricating oils in drums and designated storage tanks ‘remaining on board’ as per actual cost evidenced by net invoice prices including discounts. Also extra payment for bunkers ‘remaining on board’ at the Sellers’ last paid prices (either bought in the open market or paid to last charterers).
 

 
CLAUSE 21
 
As from the Effective Date of Merger (as defined in the Supplemental Agreement referenced in Clause 25) Buyers shall have the right to place onboard up to a maximum of three (3) representatives until delivery as observers for familiarisation purposes only without interference to the Vessel’s operation at Buyer’s risk and expense. Representatives are to sign Sellers’ indemnity form. Sellers shall assist where necessary in the application for visas for Buyer’s ongoing representatives. Upon Vessel’s arrival at the delivery port Buyers shall have the right to place on board three (3) more representatives on a daily basis up until delivery. Buyers representatives to have the right to communicate with their office / managers via the Vessel’s communication means always at Buyers’ cost. The Buyers’ representatives shall have full access to Vessel’s all non-private spaces, as well as to instruction books, plans, certificates, records, documents, plans, drawings and shall have the right to take photocopies of same but should not interfere with the Vessel’s cargo discharge operations, if any.
 
CLAUSE 22
 
Sellers and Buyers to supply documentation which may be reasonably required and to be mutually agreed for the legal transfer of the Vessel and for her Marshall Islands registration under new flag and ownership (such list to form an addendum to the MOA).
 
At the time of delivery, in addition to other documents to be agreed per this clause, Buyers shall furnish Sellers with the following delivery documents:
 
(i)
Secretary’s Certificate of Buyers authorizing this MOA, the Supplemental Agreement and the Novation Agreement in respect of the charter of the Vessel, together with incumbency certificates; and
 
(ii)
Secretary’s Certificate of each of Star Maritime and Star Bulk authorizing the Master Agreement, the Supplemental Agreement and this MOA, together with incumbency certificates.
 
At the time of delivery, in addition to other documents to be agreed per this clause, Sellers shall furnish Buyers with the following delivery documents:
 
(i)
Secretary’s Certificate of Sellers authorizing this MOA, the Supplemental Agreement and the Novation Agreement in respect of the charter of the Vessel, together with incumbency certificates; and
 
(ii)
Secretary’s Certificate of each of TMT authorizing the Master Agreement, the Supplemental Agreement and this MOA, together with incumbency certificates.
 
CLAUSE 23
 
Sellers warrant that on the date hereof and on the date of closing, the Vessel shall be entitled to trade worldwide within Institute Warranty Limits without restriction on limitation.
 

 
CLAUSE 24
 
All instruction books, drawings, plans and manuals, on board or ashore in owners/managers office that are in Sellers possession are to be delivered to the Buyers except ISM manuals and ship security plan. The Sellers to forward office set as soon as possible after delivery to the Buyer’s office. All forwarding costs to be for Buyers account.

CLAUSE 25
 
This agreement is one of the “MOAs” referred to and defined in (i) that certain Supplemental Agreement dated the date hereof and executed and delivered concurrently herewith by and among Buyers, Star Maritime as the 100pct parent of the Buyers, and TMT, the 100pct parent of the Sellers and is incorporated herein by reference, and (ii) the Master Agreement dated the date hereof and executed and delivered concurrently herewith by TMT, Buyers and Star Maritime, and is incorporated by reference. If there is any inconsistency between the terms of this agreement and the terms of said Supplemental Agreement and/or said Master Agreement, the terms of said Supplemental Agreement and said Master Agreement shall control.


THE SELLERS
THE BUYERS
   
/s/ Nobu Su
/s/ Prokopios Tsirigakis
____________________
_____________________
 

Appendix H
 

MEMORANDUM OF AGREEMENT 
 
Dated: January 12, 2007
Norwegian Shipbrokers’ Association’s Memorandum of Agreement for sale and purchase of ships. Adopted by The Baltic and International Maritime Council (BIMCO)in 1956.
Code-name
SALEFORM 1993
Revised 1966,1983 and 1986/87.
 
Mommy Management Corp., Panama
hereinafter called the Sellers, have agreed to sell, and Star Bulk Carriers Corp., Majuro - Marshall Islands or nominee
 
hereinafter called the Buyers, have agreed to buy -
 
Name: MOMMY DUCKLING
 
Classification Society/Class: BUREAU VERITAS
 
Built: 1983    By: HYUNDAI HEAVY IND.CO.LTD, KOREA
 
Flag: PANAMA    Place of Registration: PANAMA
 
Call Sign: HPKI    Grt/Nrt: 45,773/24,230
 
Register NumberIMO Number: 8024375
 
hereinafter called the Vessel, on the following terms and conditions:
 
Definitions
 
“Banking days” are days on which banks are open be the in the country of the currency stipulated for the Purchase Price in Clause 1 and in the place of closing stipulated in Clause 8.
 
“In writing” or “written” means a letter handed over from the Sellers to the Buyers or vice versa, a registered letter, telex, telefax or other modern form of written communication.
 
“Classification Society” or “Class” means the Society referred to in line 4.
 
1.
Purchase Price USD 12,786,574.81
 
2.
Deposit
 
As security for the correct fulfilment of this Agreement the Buyers shall pay a deposit of 10 % (ten poor cent) of the Purchase Price within _____________ banking days from the date of this Agreement. This deposit shall be placed with ___________________________ and held by them in a joint account for the Sellers and the Buyers, to be released in accordance  with joint written instructions of the Sellers and the Buyers. Interest, if any, to be credited to the Buyers. Any fee charged for holding the said deposit shall be borne equally by the Sellers and the Buyers.
 
3.
Payment
 
The-said Purchase Price shall be paid in full free of bank charges to ________________________________ on delivery of the Vessel, but not later than 3 banking days after the Vessel is in every respect physically ready for delivery in accordance with the terms and conditions of this Agreement and Notice of Readiness has be on given in accordance with Clause 5.The Purchase Price shall be paid as provided in the Supplemental Agreement referenced in Clause 25.
 

 
4.
Inspections
 
a)*
The Buyers have inspected and accepted the Vessel’s classification records. The Buyers have also inspected the Vessel at/in_____________ on _____________ and have accepted the Vessel following this inspection and the sale is outright and definite, subject only to the terms and conditions of this Agreement.
 
b)*
The Buyers shall have the right to inspect the Vessel and Vessel’s classification records and declare at a suitable place at the Buyers’ option. However these inspections are not a subject and once the subjects stipulated in clause 18 are lifted the sale becomes outright and definite, subject to the provisions of the Supplemental Agreement referenced in Clause 25.whether same are accepted or not within
 
The Sellers shall provide for inspection of the Vessel at/in (to be advised by Sellers)
 
The Buyer shall undertake the inspection without undue delay to the Vessel. Should the Buyers cause undue delay they shall compensate the Sellers for the loose thereby incurred. The Buyers shall inspect the Vessel without opening up and without cost to the Sellers. During the inspection, the Vessel’s deck, instruction books, maintenance records,and engine log books as available on boardshall be made available for ____________________________ examination by the Buyers. If the Vessel is accepted after such inspection, the sale shall become outright and definite, subject only to the terms and conditions of this Agreement, provided the Sellers receive written notice of acceptance from the Buyers within 72 hours after completion of such inspection.
 
Should notice of acceptance of the Vessel’s classification records and of the Vessel not be received by the Sellers as aforesaid, the deposit together with interest earned shall be released immediately to the Buyer, whereafter this Agreement shall be null and void.
 
*
4 a) and 4b) are alternatives; delete whichever is not applicable. In the absence of deletions, alternative 4a) to apply.
 
5.
Notices, time and place of delivery
 
a)
The Sellers shall keep the Buyers well informed of the Vessel’s itinerary and shall provide the Buyers with 20 ,15 , and 7, 5,2 days approximate and 1 definite notice of the estimated time of arrival at the _____________________ intended place of drydocking/underwater inspection/delivery. When the Vessel is at the place of delivery and in every respect physically ready for delivery in accordance with this Agreement, the Sellers shall give the Buyers a written Notice of Readiness for delivery.
 
b)
The Vessel shall be delivered and taken over safely afloat at a safe and accessible berth or anchorage at/ina port worldwide (range/s to be advised) ___________ in the Sellers’ option.
 
 
Expected time of delivery: as soon as practically possible following the Effective Date of the Merger (as defined in the Supplemental Agreement referenced in Clause 25) but not later than the last discharging port of the last laden voyage
 
 
Date of cancelling (see Clauses 5 c), 6 b) (iii) and 14):as per Supplemental Agreement referenced in Clause 25
 
 
c)
If the Sellers anticipate that, notwithstanding the exercise of due diligence by them, the Vessel will not be ready for delivery by the cancelling date they may notify the Buyers in writing stating the date when they anticipate that the Vessel will be ready for delivery and propose a new cancelling date. Upon receipt of such notification the Buyers shall have the option of other cancelling this Agreement in accordance with Clause 14 within 7 running days of receipt of the notice or of accepting the new date as the new cancelling date. If the Buyers have not declared their option within 7 running days of receipt of the Sellers’ notification or if the Buyers accept the new date, the date proposed in the Sellers’ notification shall be deemed to be the new cancelling date and shall be substituted for the cancelling date stipulated in line 61.
 
 

 
If this-Agreement is maintained with the new cancelling date all other terms and conditions hereof including those contained in Clauses 5 a) and 5 c) shall remain unaltered and in full force and effect. Cancellation or failure to cancel shall be entirely without prejudice to any claim for damages the Buyers may have under Clause 14 for the Vessel not being ready by the original cancelling date.
 
d)
Should the Vessel become an actual, constructive or compromised total loss before delivery the deposit together with interest eared shall be released immediately to the Buyers whereafter this Agreement shall be null and void.
 
6.
Drydocking/Divers Inspection See Clause 19
 
a)**
The Sellers shall place the Vessel in drydock at the port of delivery for inspection by the Classification Society of the Vessel’s underwater parts below the deepest load line, the extent of the inspection being in accordance with the Classification Society’s rules. If the rudder, propeller, bottom or other underwater parts below the deepest load line are found broken, damaged or defective so as to affect the Vessel’s class, such defects shall be made good at the Sellers’ expense to the satisfaction of the Classification Society without condition/recommendation*.
 
b)**
(i) The Vessel is to be delivered without drydocking. However, the Buyers shall have the right at their expense to arrange for an underwater inspection by a diver approved by the Classification Society prior to the delivery of the Vessel. The Sellers shall at their cost make the Vessel available for such inspection. The extent of the inspection and the conditions under which it is performed shall be to the satisfaction of the Classification Society. If the condition at the port of delivery are unsuitable for such inspection, the Sellers shall make the Vessel available at a suitable alternative place near to the delivery port.
 
 
(ii) If the rudder, propeller, bottom or other underwater parts be low the deepest load line are found broken, damaged or defective so as to affect the Vessel’s class, then unless repairs can be carried out afloat to the satisfaction of the Classification Society, the Sellers shall arrange for the Vessel to be drydocked at their expense for inspection by the Classification Society of the Vessel’s underwater parts below the deepest load line, the extent of the inspection being in accordance with the Classification Society’s rules. If the rudder, propeller, bottom or other underwater parts below the deepest load line are found broken, damaged or defective so as to affect the Vessel’s class, such defects shall be made good by the Sellers at their expense to the satisfaction of the Classification Society without condition/recommendation*. In such event the Sellers are to pay also for the cost of the underwater inspection and the Classification Society’s attendance.
 
 
(iii) If the Vessel is to be drydocked pursuant to Clause 6 b) (ii) and no suitable dry docking facilities are available at the port of delivery, the Sellers shall take the Vessel to a port where suitable drydocking facilities are available, whether within or outside the delivery range as per Clause 5 b). Once drydocking has taken place the Sellers shall deliver the Vessel at a port within the delivery range as per Clause 5 b) which shall, for the purpose of this Clause, become the new port of delivery. In such event the cancelling date provided for in Clause 5 b) shall be extended by the additional time required for the drydocking and extra steaming, but limited to a maximum of 14 running days.
 
c)
If the Vessel is drydocked pursuant to Clause 6 a) or 6 b) above
 
 
(i) the Classification Society may require survey of the tailshaft system, the extent of the survey being to the satisfaction of the Classification surveyor. If such survey is not required by the Classification Society, the Buyers shall have the right to require the tailshaft to be drawn and surveyed by the Classification Society, the extent of the survey being in accordance with the Classification Society’s rules for tailshaft survey and consistent with the current stage of the Vessel’s survey cycle. The Buyers shall declare whether they require the tailshaft to be drawn and surveyed not later than by the completion of the inspection by the Classification Society. The drawing and refitting of the tailshaft shall be arranged by the Sellers. Should any parts of the tailshaft system be condemned or found defective so as to affect the Vessel’s class, those parts shall be renewed or made good at the Sellers’ expense to the satisfaction of the Classification Society without condition/recommendation*.

 
ii) the expenses relating to the survey of the tailshaft system shall be borne by the Buyers unless the Classification Society requires such survey to be carried out, in which case the Sellers shall pay those exposes. The Sellers shall also pay the expenses if the Buyers require the survey and parts of the system are condom nod or found defective or broken so as to affect the Vessel’s class*.
 
 

 
 
iii) the expenses in connection with putting the Vessel in and taking her out of drydock, including the drydock dues and the Classification Society's fees shall be paid by the Sellers if the Classification Society issues any condition/recommendation* as a result of the survey or if it requires survey of the tailshaft system. In all other cases the Buyer shall pay the aforesaid expenses, dues and fees.
 
 
(iv) the Buyers’ representative shall have the right to be present in the drydock, but without interfering with the work or decisions of the Classification surveyor.
 
 
(v) the Buyers shall have the right to have the underwater parts of the Vessel cleaned and painted at their risk and expense without interfering with the Sellers’ or the Classification surveyor’s work, if any, and without affecting the Vossel’s timely delivery. If, however, the Buyers’ work in drydock is still in progress when the Sellers have completed the work which the Sellers are required to do, the- additional docking time needed to complete the Buyers’ work shall be for the Buyers’ risk and expense. In the event that the Buyers’ work requires such additional time, the Sellers may upon completion of the Sellers’ work tender Notice of Readiness for delivery whilst the Vessel is still in drydock and the Buyers shall be obliged to took delivery in accordance with Clause 3, whether the Vessel is in drydock or not and irrespective of Clause 5 b).
 
*
Notes, if any, in the surveyor’s report which are accepted by the Classification Society without condition/recommendation are not to be taken into account.
 
**
6 a) and 6 b) am alternatives; delete whichever is not applicable. In the absence of deletions, alternative 6 a) to apply.
 
7.
Spares/bunkers, etc.
 
The Sellers shall deliver the Vessel to the Buyers with everything belonging to her on board and on shore. All spare parts and spare equipment including spare tail-end shaft(s) and/or spare propeller(s)/propeller blade(s), if any, belonging to the Vessel at the time of inspection used or unused, whether on board or not shall become the Buyers’ property, but spares on order are to be excluded. Forwarding charges, if any, shall be for the Buyers’ account. The Sellers are not required to replace spare parts including spare tail-end shaft(s) and spare propeller(s)/propeller blade(s) which are taken out of spare and used as replacement prior to delivery, but the replaced items shall be the property of the Buyers. The radio installation and navigational equipment shall be included in the sale without extra payment if they are the property of the Sellers. Unused stores and provisions shall be included in the sale and be taken over by the Buyers without extra payment.
 
The Sellers have the right to take ashore crockery, plates, cutlery, linen and other articles bearing the Sellers’ flag or name, provided they replace same with similar unmarked items. Library, forms, etc., exclusively for use in the Sellers’ vessel(s), shall be excluded without compensation. Captain’s, Officers’ and Crew’s personal belongings including the slop chest are to be excluded from the sale, as well as the following additional items (including items on hire): To Be Advised
 
The Buyers shall take over the remaining bunkers (if same are property of the Sellers) and unused lubricating oils in storage tanks and _______________ sealed drums and pay the current net market price (excluding barging expenses) at the port and date of delivery of the Vessel.See Clause 20
 
Payment under this Clause shall be made at the same time and place and in the same currency as the Purchase Price.
 
8.
Documentation
 
The place of closing: New York, USA
 
In exchange for payment of the Purchase Price the Sellers shall furnish the Buyers with delivery documents, namely:
 


 
a)
Legal Bill of Sale in a form record able in Marshall Islands(the country in which the Buyers are to register the Vessel), warranting that the Vessel is free from all encumbrances, mortgages and maritime liens or any other debts or claims whatsoever, duly materially attested and legalized by the consul of such country or other competent authority.
 
b)
Current Certificate of Ownership issued by the competent authorities of the flag state of the Vessel.
 
c)
Confirmation of Class issued within 72 hours3 working days prior to delivery.
 
d)
Current Certificate issued by the competent authorities stating that the Vessel is free from registered encumbrances.
 
e)
Certificate of Deletion of the Vessel from the Vessel’s registry or other official evidence of deletion appropriate to the Vessel’s registry at the time of delivery, or, in the event that the registry does not as a matter of practice issue such documentation immediately, a written undertaking by the Sellers to effect deletion from the Vessel’s registry forthwith and furnish a Certificate or other official evidence of deletion to the Buyers promptly and latest within 4 (four) weeks after the Purchase Price has been paid and the Vessel has been delivered.
 
f)
Any such additional documents as may reasonably be required by the competent authorities for the purpose of registering the Vessel, provided the Buyers notify the Sellers of any such documents as soon as possible after the date of this Agreement.
See Clause 22
 
At the time of delivery the Buyers and Sellers shall sign and deliver to each other a Protocol of Delivery and Acceptance confirming the date and time of delivery of the Vessel from the Sellers to the Buyers.
 
At the time of delivery the Sellers shall hand to the Buyers the classification certificate(s) as well as all plans, instruction books, maintenance records etc., which are on board the Vessel. Other certificates which are on board the Vessel shall also be handed over to the Buyers unless the Sellers are required to retain same, in which case the Buyers to have the right to take copies. Other technical documentation which may be in the Sellers’ possession shall be promptly forwarded to the Buyers at their expense, if they go request. The Sellers may keep the Vessel’s log books but the Buyers to have the right to take copies of same.
 
9.
Encumbrances
 
The Sellers warrant that the Vessel, at the time of delivery, is free from all charters(other than term employment/charters contemplated by the Supplemental Agreement referenced in Clause 25), encumbrances, __________________ mortgages and maritime liens or any other debts whatsoever. The Sellers hereby undertake to indemnify the Buyers against all consequences of claims made against the Vessel which have been incurred prior to the time of delivery. The Vessel on delivery to be delivered free of cargo/cargo residues, and free of any dunnage.
 
10.
Taxes, etc.
 
Any taxes, fees and expenses in connection with the purchase and registration under the Buyers’ flag shall be for the Buyers’ account, whereas similar charges in connection with the closing of the Sellers’ register shall be for the Sellers’ account.
 
11.
Condition on delivery
 
The Vessel with everything belonging to her shall be at the Sellers’ risk and expense until she is delivered to the Buyers, but subject to the terms and conditions of this Agreement she shall be delivered and taken over as she was at the time of inspection, fair wear and tear excepted.  However, the Vessel shall be delivered with her class maintained without condition/recommendation*,free of average damage affecting the Vessel’s class, and with her classification certificates and International/national certificatesand surveys, as well as all other certificates the Vessel had at the time of agreement inspection, valid and ____________________ unexpended without condition/recommendation* by Class or the relevant authorities for a minimum of 1 month from at the time of __________________________ delivery.



“Inspection” in this Clause 11 and in Clause 7, Line 157, shall mean the Buyers’ inspection according to Clause 4 a) or 4 b), if ______________________ applicable, or the Buyers’ inspection prior to the signing of this Agreement. If the Vessel is taken over without inspection, the date of this Agreement shall be the relevant date.
 
*
Notes, if any, in the surveyor’s report which are accepted by the Classification Society without condition/recommendation are not to be taken into account.
 
12.
Name/markings
 
Upon delivery the Buyers undertake to change the name of the Vessel and alter funnel markings.
 
13.
Buyers’default
 
Should the deposit not be paid in accordance with Clause 2, the Sellers have the right to cancel this Agreement, and they shall be entitled to claim compensation for their lassos and for oil expenses incurred together with interest.
 
Should the Purchase Price not be paid in accordance with Clause 3, the Sellers have the right to cancel the Agreement, in which case the deposit together with interest earned shall be released to the Sellers. If the deposit does not cover their loss, the Sellers shall be entitled to claim further compensation for their losses and for all expenses incurred together with interest.
 
14.
Sellers’ default as per Supplemental Agreement referenced in Clause 25
 
Should the Sellers fail to give Notice of Readiness in accordance with Clause 5 a) or fail to be read to validly complete a legal transfer by the date stipulated in line 61 the Buyers shall have the option of cancelling this Agreement provided always that the Sellers shall be granted a maximum of 3 banking days after Notice of Readiness has been given to make arrangements for the documentation set out in Clause 8. If after Notice of Readiness has been given but before the Buyer have taken delivery, the Vessel ceases to be physically ready for delivery and is not made physically ready again in every respect by the date stipulated in lion 61 and now Notice of Readiness given, the Buyer shall retain their option to cancel. In the event that the Buyers loot to cancel this Agreement the deposit together with interest earned shall be released to them immediately.
 
Should the Sellers fail to give Notice of Readiness by the date stipulated in line 61 or fail to be ready to validly complete a legal transfer as aforesaid they shall make due compensation to the Buyers for their loss and for all expenses together with interest if their failure is due to proven negligence and whether or not the Buyers cancel this Agreement.
 
15.
Buyers’ representatives See Clause 21
 
After this Agreement has been on signed by be the parties and the deposit has been lodged, the Buyers have the right to place two representatives on be add the Vessel at their solo risk and expense upon arrival at ___________ on or about _____________________________ These representatives are on be add for the purpose of familiarization and in the capacity of observers only, and they shall not interfere in any respect with the operation of the Vessel. The Buyers’ representatives shall sign the Sellers’ letter of indemnity prior to their embarkation.
 
16.
Arbitration
 
a)*
This Agreement shall be governed by and construed in accordance with English law and 263 any dispute arising out of this Agreement shall be referred to arbitration in London in 264 accordance with the Arbitration Acts 1950 and 1979 or any statutory modification or it or be ing appointed by each or enactment thereof for the time being in party. On the receipt by one party of the nomination in writing of the other party’s arbitrator, that party shall appoint their arbitrator within fourteen days, failing which the decision of the single arbitrator appointed shall apply. If two arbitrators properly appointed shall not agree they shall appoint an umpire whose decision shall be final.
 

 
b)*
This Agreement shall be governed by and construed in accordance with Title 9 of the United States Code and the Law of the State of New York and should any dispute arise out of this Agreement, the matter in dispute shall be referred to three persons at New York, one to be appointed by each of the parties hereto, and the third by the two so chosen; their decision or that of any two of them shall be final, and for purpose of enforcing any award, this Agreement may be made a rule of the Court.
 
The proceedings shall be conducted in accordance with the rules of the Society of Maritime Arbitrators, Inc. New York.
 
c)*
Any dispute arising out of this Agreement shall be referred to arbitration at __________________, subject to the procedures applicable there. The laws of __________________ shall govern this Agreement’s
 
*
16 a), 16 b) and 16 c) are alternatives; delete whichever is not applicable. In the absence of  282 deletions, alternative 16 a) to apply.
 
Clauses 17-25 be the inclusive are deemed are part of this agreement
 
This Charter Party is a computer generated copy of the “SALEFORM 1993” form printed by authority of Norwegian Shipbrokers’ Association using software which is the copyright of Strategic Software Ltd. Any insertion or deletion to the form must be clearly visible. In the event of any modification made to the preprinted text of this document which is not clearly visible, the text of the original approved document shall apply. Norwegian Shipbrokers’ Association and Strategic Software Ltd. assume no responsibility for any loss or damage caused as a result of discrepancies between the original approved document and this document.
 


ADDITIONAL CLAUSES
TO THE MEMORANDUM OF AGREEMENT - SALE FORM 1993
DATED JANUARY 12, 2007 FOR M.V. ‘MOMMY DUCKLING’ (THE VESSEL)
BETWEEN MOMY DUCKLING MANAGEMENT CORP., PANAMA (THE
SELLERS) AND STAR BULK CARRIERS CORP. MARSHALL ISLANDS OR
NOMINEE (THE BUYERS)
 
CLAUSE 17
 
This sale is part of the sale and delivery of the following additional Motor Vessels:
 
M.V. “A Duckling”
M.V. “B Duckling”
M.V. “C Duckling”
M.V. “F Duckling”
M.V. “G Duckling”
M.V. “I Duckling”
M.V. “J Duckling”
 
registered in the respective ownership of the following Owners:
 
A Duckling Corporation, Panama
B Duckling Corporation, Panama
C Duckling Corporation, Panama
F Duckling Corporation, Panama
G Duckling Corporation, Panama
I Duckling Corporation, Panama
J Duckling Corporation, Panama
 
and all ultimately beneficially owned by TMT Co., Ltd., Taiwan (“TMT”). In the event that one or more of the above vessels are not delivered pursuant to their respective MOA’s for any reason whatsoever, TMT hereby agrees and assumes the obligation to substitute the non-delivered vessel(s) with replacement tonnage pursuant and subject to the terms of the Supplemental Agreement referenced in Clause 25.
 
CLAUSE 18
 
This sale is subject to:
 
 
i)
STAR MARITIME ACQUISITION CORP. Delaware (“Star Maritime”) a listed company in the AMEX being the parent company of the Buyers filing a definitive proxy/registration statement (the “Registration Statement”) with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”) and such Registration Statement being declared effective by the SEC.
 
 

 
 
ii)
Star Maritime obtaining the requisite approval of its stockholders for the Merger (as defined in Supplemental Agreement referenced in Clause 25) and the sale of the vessels provided for in the Supplemental Agreement referenced in Clause 25 at a duly convened stockholders’ meeting.
 
CLAUSE 19
 
No dry-docking / however the Buyers have the right at Buyers’ expense to carry out an under-water (defined as ‘parts below the sea water line at time of divers inspection’) inspection prior to or at the delivery port and the Sellers shall make the vessel available for such under-water inspection. Inspection of underwater parts shall be carried out by divers approved by the class with the presence of class surveyor and the Sellers/Buyers representatives. Such diver inspection shall be carried out in a manner acceptable to class surveyor. If the conditions at the port of delivery are unsuitable for such inspection, the Sellers shall make the Vessel available at a suitable alternative place near the delivery port.
 
In the event of any damage/s being found which lead to a recommendation by the classification society and immediate repairs are required, the Sellers shall then dry-dock the Vessel in accordance with clause 6 of the Norwegian Sale Form 1993, and Sellers shall repair same to class satisfaction. cancelling date to be extended accordingly.
 
If damage/s are found which lead to a recommendation by the classification society, repair/s of which maybe be carried out by the Buyers at a later stage, as per classification society recommendation, then in lieu of Buyers taking delivery of the Vessel with said recommendation/s the Sellers shall pay to the Buyers the estimated repairing direct cost - this amount will be deducted from the purchase price on delivery.
 
This estimated repairing direct cost shall be the average cost of 2 quotations from reputable yards/repair shops at or near the delivery port, 1 obtained by Buyers and 1 obtained by Sellers determined in accordance with the cost of such repairs prevailing at the time of delivery of the Vessel, for repair works only without dry-docking costs and without costs of possible time lost, and in any case for the direct cost/s only.
 
It is understood that class shall be the sole arbiter in any matter under this Clause 19 affecting the Vessel’s class.
 
The costs of class surveyor’s fee and diver inspection will be for the Buyers’ account.
 
CLAUSE 20
 
The Buyers are to pay extra for unused/unbroached lubricating oils in drums and designated storage tanks ‘remaining on board as per actual cost evidenced by net invoice prices including discounts. Also extra payment for bunkers ‘remaining on board at the Sellers’ last paid prices (either be ought in the open market or paid to last charterers).
 

 
CLAUSE 21
 
As from the Effective Date of Merger (as defined in the Supplemental Agreement referenced in Clause 25) Buyers shall have the right to place onboard up to a maximum of three (3) representatives until delivery as observers for familiarization purposes only without interference to the Vessel’s operation at Buyer’s risk and expense. Representatives are to sign Sellers’ indemnity form. Sellers shall assist where necessary in the application for visas for Buyer’s ongoing representatives. Upon Vessel’s arrival at the delivery port Buyers shall have the right to place on board three (3) more representatives on a daily basis up until delivery. Buyers representatives to have the right to communicate with their office / managers via the Vessel’s communication means always at Buyers’ cost. The Buyers’ representatives shall have full access to Vessel’s all non-private spaces, as well as to instruction books, plans, certificates, records, documents, plans, drawings and shall have the right to take photocopies of same but should not interfere with the Vessel’s cargo discharge operations, if any.
 
CLAUSE 22
 
Sellers and Buyers to supply documentation which may be reasonably required and to be mutually agreed for the legal transfer of the Vessel and for her Marshall Islands registration under new flag and ownership (such list to form an addendum to the MOA).
 
At the time of delivery, in addition to other documents to be agreed per this clause, Buyers shall furnish Sellers with the following delivery documents:
 
(i)
Novation Agreement duly executed by Buyers;
 
(ii)
Secretary’s Certificate of Buyers authorizing this MOA, the Supplemental Agreement and the Novation Agreement in respect of the charter of the Vessel, together with incumbency certificates; and
   
(iii)
Secretary’s Certificate of each of Star Maritime and Star Bulk authorizing the Master Agreement, the Supplemental Agreement and this MOA, together with incumbency certificates.
 
At the time of delivery, in addition to other documents to be agreed per this clause, Sellers shall furnish Buyers with the following delivery documents:
 
(i)
Novation Agreement duly executed by Sellers and the charterer;
 
(ii)
Secretary’s Certificate of Sellers authorizing this MOA, the Supplemental Agreement and the Novation Agreement in respect of the charter of the Vessel, together with incumbency certificates; and
   
(iii)
Secretary’s Certificate of each of TMT authorizing the Master Agreement, the Supplemental Agreement and this MOA, together with incumbency certificates.
 
CLAUSE 23
 
Sellers warrant that on the date hereof and on the date of closing, the Vessel shall be entitled to trade worldwide within Institute Warranty Limits without restriction on limitation.
 

 
CLAUSE 24
 
All instruction books, drawings, plans and manuals, on board or ashore in owners/managers office that are in Sellers possession are to be delivered to the Buyers except ISM manuals and ship security plan. The Sellers to forward office set as soon as possible after delivery to the Buyer’s office. All forwarding costs to be for Buyers account.

CLAUSE 25
 
This agreement is one of the “MOAs” referred to and defined in (i) that certain Supplemental Agreement dated the date hereof and executed and delivered concurrently herewith by and among Buyers, Star Maritime as the 100pct parent of the Buyers, and TMT, the 100pct parent of the Sellers and is incorporated herein by reference, and (ii) the Master Agreement dated the date hereof and executed and delivered concurrently herewith by TMT, Buyers and Star Maritime, and is incorporated by reference. If there is any inconsistency between the terms of this agreement and the terms of said Supplemental Agreement and/or said Master Agreement, the terms of said Supplemental Agreement and said Master Agreement shall control.


THE SELLERS
THE BUYERS
   
/s/ Nobu Su
/s/ Prokopios Tsirigakis
____________________
_____________________
 

Appendix I
 
SUPPLEMENTAL AGREEMENT
 
This Supplemental Agreement is entered into as of this 12th day of January, 2007 by and among (i) Star Maritime Acquisition Corp. ("Star Maritime"), a Delaware corporation, (ii) Star Bulk Carriers Corp. ("Star Bulk"), a Marshall Islands corporation wholly-owned by Star Maritime, for itself individually and for/on behalf of each of the Buyers (as hereinafter defined), and (iii) TMT Co., Ltd. ("TMT"), a Taiwan corporation, for itself individually and for/on behalf of each of the Sellers (as hereinafter defined).
 
Capitalized terms not otherwise defined herein shall have the meanings assigned to such terms in Schedule 1 hereto.
 
The purpose of this Supplement Agreement is, inter  alia, to provide for the timing of the delivery of, and payment of the consideration for, the Vessels as provided for under the MOAs which are being concurrently executed and delivered herewith.
 
In consideration of the premises, the parties hereto agree as follows:
 
1.  
If the Merger and the acquisition by Star Bulk of the Vessels are not approved by the requisite vote of the stockholders of Star Maritime on the Proxy Vote Date, the MOAs and this Supplemental Agreement shall be deemed terminated, cancelled and of no further force and effect, in each case with any further action required of the parties.
   
                  2.
If the Merger and the acquisition by Star Bulk of the Vessels are approved by the requisite vote of the Star Maritime stockholders on the Proxy Vote Date, Star Maritime and Star Bulk shall proceed forthwith to take all actions necessary to implement the Merger on or before the Effective Date of Merger.
 
 
      3.
Star Bulk shall purchase the Vessels for the Aggregate Purchase Price, which consists of two components: (1) the Stock Consideration and (2) the Cash Consideration. The Aggregate Purchase Price shall be paid as follows:
 
(i)
first, in the form of the Stock Consideration (which shall be issued to TMT, not in its individual capacity but solely as agent for each of the applicable Sellers, concurrently with the Merger); and
 
(ii)
second, only after Vessels with an aggregate value (as set forth in Schedule 2 hereto) that equals the aggregate value of the Stock Consideration (the "Stock Consideration Threshold") have been delivered, in the form of the Cash Consideration.
 
If a Vessel is delivered whose value, together with all previous Vessels delivered, exceeds the Stock Consideration Threshold, the remaining portion of the allocated Aggregate Purchase Price for such Vessel and any other remaining Vessels shall be paid in the form of Cash Consideration upon delivery of each such Vessel (allocated as per Schedule 2 hereto).


 

4.  
As the 100% parent of each of the Sellers and the Buyers, respectively, TMT and Star Maritime hereby guarantees the due and punctual performance of each of the Sellers and the Buyers, respectively, under the relevant MOA.
 
5.  
The Vessels, on delivery under the MOAs, shall be operated either on a spot basis or subject to term employment called for, with minimum terms and aggregate minimum daily hire rate, as provided for in Schedule 4. Term employment shall be with first class charterers and otherwise shall contain standard industry terms for employment of such Vessels and also a charter clause and a form of novation agreement, both substantially in the forms attached hereto as Exhibit A and B, respectively. TMT undertakes to procure such term employment by the Sellers with a third party or, in the case of the Mommy Duckling and, at its sole option, one of C Duckling, F Duckling, G Duckling or I Duckling, with itself as charterer, as soon as possible but no later than thirty (30) days from the date of this Supplemental Agreement or to pay Star Bulk the difference between the aggregate daily hire rate so fixed and the aggregate minimum daily hire rate provided for in Schedule 4 (which aggregate daily hire rate difference shall be calculated from the time of delivery of all such Vessels under the MOAs) during the relevant minimum employment term set forth in Schedule 4 (which minimum employment term shall be measured from the date of delivery of the applicable Vessel to its charterers under the applicable charter). Should TMT be unable to secure a novation agreement substantially in the form attached hereto as Exhibit B with respect to A Duckling prior to or at delivery of the Vessel, the Buyer shall, concurrent with delivery, time charter the Vessel to TMT or an affiliate designee of TMT on the same terms and conditions as the Vessel's current time charter term employment.
 
6.  
If any of the Sellers is unable to deliver its Vessel pursuant to and in compliance with the terms of its MOA, Star Bulk and TMT shall confer and cooperate to identify mutually acceptable replacement vessel and enter into a binding purchase agreement for such replacement vessel within forty-five (45) days from the required delivery date of the Vessel being replaced. Should the purchase price (based on prevailing market rates) of any replacement vessel be higher than the the portion of the Aggregate Purchase Price allocated to the Vessel being replaced, Star Bulk hereby agrees to pay TMT or its nominee in cash such price difference, which payment shall be made concurrently with delivery of the replacement Vessel. Should the purchase price (based on prevailing market rates) of any replacement vessel be lower than the Aggregate Purchase Price allocated to the Vessel being replaced, TMT hereby agrees to pay in cash to Star Bulk such price difference, which payment shall be made concurrently with delivery of the replacement Vessel. If a binding purchase agreement for a replacement vessel is not entered into within the required forty-five (45) days period, Star Bulk/Buyer shall have the right to terminate the MOA for the Vessel being replaced whereupon neither party to such MOA shall have any rights or liabilities thereunder.



7.  
This Supplemental Agreement shall be governed and construed in accordance with Title 9 of the United States Code and the law of the State of New York and should any dispute arise under this Supplemental Agreement the matter in dispute shall be referred to three persons at New York, one to be appointed by Star Maritime and Star Bulk and one to be appointed by TMT, and the third by the two so chosen; their decision or that of any two of them shall be final and for the purpose of enforcing of any award, this Supplemental Agreement may be made a rule of the court. The proceedings shall be conducted in accordance with the rules of the Society of Maritime Arbitrators, Inc. in New York.
 
8.  
In the event of any conflict between the provisions of any MOA and this Supplemental Agreement, the provisions of this Supplement Agreement shall prevail.
 
[Signature Page Follows]


 

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the undersigned has caused this Supplemental Agreement to be executed and delivered as of this date first indicated above by these duly authorized officers or representatives.
     
 
STAR MARITIME ACQUISITION CORP.
 
 
 
 
 
 
By:   /s/ Prokopios Tsirigakis
 
Name: Prokopios Tsirigakis
Title: Chairman, Chief Executive Officer and President
     
     
 
STAR BULK CARRIERS CORP.,
for itself individually and for/on behalf of each of the Buyers
 
 
 
 
 
 
By:   /s/ Prokopios Tsirigakis
 
Name: Prokopios Tsirigakis
Title: President
     
     
 
TMT CO., LTD.,
for itself individually and for/on behalf of each of the Sellers
 
 
 
 
 
 
By:   /s/ Nobu Su
 
Name: Nobu Su
Title: Chairman and Chief Executive Officer


 
 
SCHEDULE 1
 
DEFINITIONS
 
As used in the Supplemental Agreement to which this Schedule 1 is attached, the following terms have the meanings set forth below:

"Aggregate Purchase Price"
shall mean $345,237,520.
   
"Buyers"
shall mean, collectively, Star Bulk and those entities wholly-owned by Star Bulk for and on behalf of which Star Bulk is purchasing the Vessels.
   
"Cash Consideration"
shall mean $ 224,499.998.65.
   
"Effective Date of Merger"
shall mean the date, which shall not more than 15 days of the Proxy Vote Date approving the Merger, on which the merger of Star Maritime into Star Bulk becomes effective under the Marshall Islands law.
   
"Merger"
shall mean the business combination of Star Maritime with Star Bulk effected by way of a merger in which Star Bulk is the surviving corporation.
   
"Proxy Vote Date"
shall mean the date on which the proposed merger of Star Maritime into Star Bulk is submitted for vote of the shareholders of Star Maritime.
   
"MOAs"
shall mean, collectively, the memoranda of agreement listed and described in Schedule 3.
   
"Sellers"
shall mean, collectively, those entities wholly-owned by TMT and identified as sellers of the Vessels in the MOAs listed on Schedule 3.
   
"Stock Consideration"
shall mean 12,537,645 shares of common stock, par value $0.01 per share, of the Star Bulk, equivalent to $120,737,521.35.
   
"Stock Consideration Threshold"
shall have the meaning set forth in Section 3(ii).
   
"Vessels"
shall mean, collectively, the vessels listed on Schedule 2 and to be delivered under the MOAs listed on Schedule 3.



SCHEDULE 2
 
AGGREGATE PURCHASE PRICE ALLOCATION
 
Vessel Name
 
 Price Allocation
 
A DUCKLING
 
$
59,329,707.14
 
B DUCKLING
   
61,375,559.11
 
C DUCKLING
   
43,474,354.37
 
F DUCKLING
   
40,917,039.41
 
G DUCKLING
   
40,917,039.41
 
I DUCKLING
   
42,451,428.39
 
J DUCKLING
   
43,985,817.36
 
MOMMY DUCKLING
   
12,786,574.81
 
Aggregate Purchase Price:
 
$
345,237,520.00
 
 


SCHEDULE 3
 
MEMORANDA OF AGREEMENT
 
Memorandum of Agreement relating to the A Duckling dated January 12, 2007 between Star Bulk Carriers Corp., as buyer, and A Duckling Corporation, as seller.
 
Memorandum of Agreement relating to the B Duckling dated January 12, 2007 between Star Bulk Carriers Corp., as buyer, and B Duckling Corporation, as seller.
 
Memorandum of Agreement relating to the C Duckling dated January 12, 2007 between Star Bulk Carriers Corp., as buyer, and C Duckling Corporation, as seller.
 
Memorandum of Agreement relating to the F Duckling dated January 12, 2007 between Star Bulk Carriers Corp., as buyer, and F Duckling Corporation, as seller.
 
Memorandum of Agreement relating to the G Duckling dated January 12, 2007 between Star Bulk Carriers Corp., as buyer, and G Duckling Corporation, as seller.
 
Memorandum of Agreement relating to the I Duckling dated January 12, 2007 between Star Bulk Carriers Corp., as buyer, and I Duckling Corporation, as seller.
 
Memorandum of Agreement relating to the J Duckling dated January 12, 2007 between Star Bulk Carriers Corp., as buyer, and J Duckling Corporation, as seller.
 
Memorandum of Agreement relating to the Mommy Duckling dated January 12, 2007 between Star Bulk Carriers Corp., as buyer, and Mommy Management Corp., as seller.


 
 
SCHEDULE 4
 
Vessel
 
Contract Type/ Minimum Term Employment
 
Targeted Daily Hire Rate
 
A DUCKLING
  Time Charter/3 Years  
$
47,000
 
C DUCKLING
  Time Charter/1 Year  
$
28,500
 
F DUCKLING
  Time Charter/2 Years  
$
24,500
 
G DUCKLING
  Time Charter/2 Years  
$
24,500
 
I DUCKLING
  Time Charter/1 Year  
$
28,500
 
MOMMY DUCKLING
  Time Charter/1 Year  
$
18,000
 
    Aggregate Minimum Daily Hire Rate:   $ 171,000  
B DUCKLING
 
Spot
 
N/A
 
J DUCKLING
  Spot  
 
N/A
 


 

EXHIBIT A
 
FORM OF CHARTER CLAUSE
 
The [Charterer] hereby acknowledges that the [Owner] or its parent, TMT CO., LTD., a Taiwan corporation (or "TMT"), may transfer the Vessel to STAR BULK CARRIERS CORP., a Marshall Islands corporation ("Star Bulk") or a wholly-owned subsidiary of Star Bulk, and further agrees to consent to such sale and enter into a novation agreement, substantially in the form attached hereto as Exhibit [______], pursuant to which the [Owner] will transfer all of its rights, liabilities, duties and obligations with respect to the [Charterer] under [the Charter Agreement] with effect from and including the date of the delivery of the Vessel to Star Bulk or a wholly-owned subsidiary of Star Bulk.


 
 
EXHIBIT B
 
FORM OF NOVATION AGREEMENT
 
THIS NOVATION AGREEMENT (this "Agreement") is made and entered into as of [_______], 2007, by and among [___________], a [____________] corporation (the "Transferor"), [___________], a company incorporated under the laws of [___________] and the charterer of the Vessel (the "Charterer") and [___________], a Marshall Islands corporation (the "Transferee").
 
WITNESSETH:
 
WHEREAS, the Transferor owns the [___________], a drybulk carrier with a cargo-carrying capacity of [___________] deadweight tons (the "Vessel");
 
WHEREAS, the Vessel is to be sold by the Transferor to the Transferee pursuant to a memorandum of agreement dated January [______], 2007 (the "MOA");
 
WHEREAS, the Transferor and the Charterer are parties to a charter agreement, dated [___________], 2007, for the charter of the Vessel (the "Charter Agreement");
 
WHEREAS, the Transferor desires to transfer by novation to the Transferee, and the Transferee wishes to accept the transfer by novation of all the rights, liabilities, duties and obligations of the Transferor with respect to the Charterer under the Charter Agreement with effect from and including the date of the delivery of the Vessel to the Transferee (the "Novation Date");
 
WHEREAS, the Transferor desires to transfer by novation to the Transferee, and the Transferee wishes to accept the transfer by novation, of all the rights, liabilities, duties and obligations of the Transferor with respect to the Charterer under the Charter Agreement with effect from and including the Novation Date; and
 
WHEREAS, the Charterer desires to consent to the Transferor's sale of the Vessel pursuant to the MOA and transfers by novation to the Transferee of all the rights, liabilities, duties and obligations of the Transferor with respect to the Charterer under the Charter Agreement with effect from and including the Novation Date.
 
NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of the mutual representations, warranties and covenants contained in this Agreement and other good and valuable consideration (the receipt and sufficiency of which are hereby acknowledged by each of the parties), the parties hereto agree as follows:
 
1. Novation
 
With effect from and including the Novation Date:
 
(a) the Charterer consents to the Transferor's sale of the Vessel to the Transferee pursuant to the MOA, the change of the Vessel's flag to the Republic of the Marshall Islands and the change of the Vessel's name as directed by the Transferee;


 

(b) the Charterer releases the Transferor from the Transferor' obligations and liabilities to the Charterer under the Charter Agreement arising on or after the Novation Date and which relate to the period commencing from the Novation Date, such release and discharge being without prejudice to the obligations and liabilities of the Transferee to the Charterer pursuant to the Charter Agreement;
 
(c) the Transferee agrees with the Transferor and the Charterer to assume all the rights, title, benefit, interest, liabilities and obligations of the Transferor in and under the Charter Agreement, in lieu of the Transferor, arising on or after the Novation Date and which relate to the period commencing from the Novation Date and hereby undertakes to observe and perform in favor of and for the benefit of the Charterer all such obligations and liabilities arising on or after the Novation Date and which relate to the period commencing from the Novation Date;
 
(d) the Charterer agrees with the Transferee to observe and perform in favor of and for the benefit of the Transferee, in lieu of the Transferor, all of their obligations and liabilities under the Charter Agreement arising on or after the Novation Date and which relate to the period commencing from the Novation Date;
 
(e) the Charterer expressly consents to and accept the assumption by the Transferee of the rights, title, benefit, interest, obligations and liabilities of the Transferor under the Charter Agreement, in lieu of the Transferor, arising on or after the Novation Date and which relate to the period commencing from the Novation Date and agrees that any actions, proceedings, demands, claims, liabilities, damages, costs and expenses of any nature whatsoever arising on or after the Novation Date shall be made against the Transferee and not the Transferor;
 
(f) the Transferor agrees at all times to keep the Transferee, its successors and assigns fully indemnified against all actions, proceedings, demands, claims, liabilities, damages, costs and expenses of any nature whatsoever (other than indirect, consequential, punitive or special damages), made against the Transferee, its successors and assigns or for which the Transferee, its successors and assigns may be held liable in relation to such actions, proceedings, demands, claims, liabilities, damages, costs and expenses of the Transferor accrued or existing prior to the Novation Date. The Transferee shall give the Transferor prompt written notice of any such actions, proceedings, demands, claims, liabilities, damages, costs and expenses of any nature whatsoever, which the Transferee believes will give rise to indemnification by the Transferor under this paragraph and the Transferor shall have the right to defend and to direct the defense against any such claim, suit or demand, in the Transferor's name at the Transferor's expense and with counsel of Transferor's own choosing, which counsel shall be reasonably satisfactory to the Transferee; provided that such claim, suit or demand would not adversely affect any rights of the Transferee or the ownership and operation of the Vessel; and
 
(g) the Transferee agrees at all times to keep the Transferor, its successors and assigns fully indemnified against all actions, proceedings, demands, claims, liabilities, damages, costs and expenses of any nature whatsoever (other than indirect, consequential, punitive or special damages), made against the Transferor, its successors and assigns or for which the Transferor, its successors and assigns may be held liable in relation to such actions, proceedings, demands, claims, liabilities, damages, costs and expenses of the Transferee accrued or existing on or after the Novation Date. The Transferor shall give the Transferee prompt written notice of any such actions, proceedings, demands, claims, liabilities, damages, costs and expenses of any nature whatsoever, which the Transferor believes will give rise to indemnification by the Transferee under this paragraph and the Transferee shall have the right to defend and to direct the defense against any such claim, suit or demand, in the Transferee's name at the Transferee's expense and with counsel of Transferee's own choosing, which counsel shall be reasonably satisfactory to the Transferor; provided that such claim, suit or demand would not adversely affect any rights of the Transferor.


 
 
2. Representations and Warranties.
 
Each party represents to the other party that:
 
(a) Status. It is duly organized and validly existing under the laws of the jurisdiction of its organization or incorporation and, if relevant under such laws, in good standing;
 
(b) Powers. It has the power to execute this Agreement and any other documentation relating to this Agreement to which it is a party, to deliver this Agreement and any other documentation relating to this Agreement and to perform its obligations under this Agreement and has taken all necessary action to authorize such execution, delivery and performance;
 
(c) No Violation or Conflict. Such execution, delivery and performance do not violate or conflict with any law applicable to it, any provision of its constitutional documents, any order or judgment of any court or other agency of government applicable to it or any of its assets or any contractual restriction binding on or affecting it or any of its assets;
 
(d) Consents. All governmental and other consents that are required to have been obtained by it with respect to this Agreement have been obtained and are in full force and effect and all conditions of any such consents have been complied with;
 
(e) Obligations Binding. Its obligations under this Agreement constitute its legal, valid and binding obligations, enforceable in accordance with their respective terms (subject to applicable bankruptcy, reorganization, insolvency, moratorium or similar laws affecting creditors' rights generally and subject, as to enforceability, to equitable principles of general application (regardless of whether enforcement is sought in a proceeding in equity or at law));
 
(f) Absence of Certain Events. No event of default or potential event of default with respect to it has occurred and is continuing and no such event or circumstance would occur as a result of its entering into or performing its obligations under this Agreement;


 
 
(g) Absence of Litigation. There is not pending or, to its knowledge, threatened against it or any of its affiliates any action, suit or proceeding at law or in equity or before any court, tribunal, governmental body, agency or official or any arbitrator that is likely to affect the legality, validity or enforceability against it of this Agreement or its ability to perform its obligations under this Agreement; and
 
(h) Other Parties. As of the Novation Date, no other party has any interest or obligation in or under the Charter Agreement.
 
3. Miscellaneous.
 
3.1 Amendments. No amendment, modification or waiver in respect of the Novation Agreement will be effective unless in writing (including a writing evidenced by a facsimile transmission) and executed by each of the parties or confirmed by an exchange of telexes or electronic messages on an electronic messaging system.
 
3.2 Dispute Resolution, Governing Law and Jurisdiction. Any dispute, action or proceeding arising in connection with this Agreement or the performance hereof shall be governed by the relevant dispute resolution, governing law and jurisdiction provisions of the Charter Agreement to which this Agreement is annexed, which provisions are hereby incorporated herein by reference and shall have the same force and effect as if fully set forth herein.
 
3.3 Waiver of Jury Trial. The parties waive, to the fullest extent permitted by applicable law, any right they may have to a trial by jury in respect of any suit, action or proceeding relating to this Agreement. The parties certify that no representative, agent or attorney of either party has represented, expressly or otherwise, that such other party would not, in the event of such a suit, action or proceeding, seek to enforce the foregoing waiver and acknowledge that they have been induced to enter into this Agreement by, among other things, the mutual waivers and certifications in this Section 3.4.
 
3.4 Further Assurances and Other Matters. The parties agree, upon the request of any other party, at any time and from time to time, promptly to execute and deliver all such further documents, promptly to take and forbear from all such action, and obtain all approvals, consents, exemptions or authorizations from such governmental agencies or authorities as may be necessary or reasonably appropriate in order to carry out the provisions of this Agreement.
 
[Signature Page Follows]


 

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties hereto have executed this Agreement as of the day and year first above written. This Agreement may be executed in one or more counterparts and will be deemed effective when each of the parties shall have executed a copy hereof.
 
[TRANSFEROR]    
[CHARTERER]
       
By:     By:

Name:
Title:
   

Name:
Title:
       
[TRANSFEREE]      
       
By:    

Name:
Title:
   
 
 

Appendix J
 
 


MASTER AGREEMENT
 
dated as of January 12, 2007
 
by and among
 
TMT CO., LTD.,
 
STAR BULK CARRIERS CORP.
 
and
 
STAR MARITIME ACQUISITION CORP.
 
relating to the purchase of
eight drybulk carriers
 




 

MASTER AGREEMENT
 
THIS MASTER AGREEMENT, dated as of January 12, 2007 (this Agreement”), is made by and among TMT CO., LTD., a Taiwan corporation (the “Seller”), STAR BULK CARRIERS CORP., a Marshall Islands corporation (the “Buyer”), and STAR MARITIME ACQUISITION CORP., a Delaware corporation (“Star Maritime”).
 
WITNESSETH:
 
WHEREAS, the Seller and the Buyer desire to effect the transfer by the Seller's Vessel Owning Subsidiaries to the Buyer or its nominees of all of the Vessel Owning Subsidiaries' right, title and interest in and to the Vessels in accordance with the terms of the MOAs and the Supplemental Agreement.
 
NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of the foregoing premises, and the mutual covenants and agreements herein contained, and for other good and valuable consideration, the receipt and sufficiency of which are hereby acknowledged, the parties hereto agree as follows:
 
SECTION 1. Definitions.
 
(a) Definitions. For purposes of this Agreement, the following terms shall have the following meanings:
 
Aggregate Purchase Price” means $345,237,520.
 
Buyer Common Stock” means the common stock, par value $0.01 per share, of the Buyer.
 
Cash Consideration” means $224,499.998.65.
 
Effective Date of Merger” has the meaning set forth in the Supplemental Agreement.
 
Exchange Act” shall mean the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, or any similar federal statute, and the rules and regulations of the Commission thereunder, all as the same shall be in effect from time to time.
 
Forecasted Annual Consolidated Revenue” means the forecasted annual Revenue of the Buyer, as shall be agreed between the Buyer and the Seller with reference to the Vessels' employment once arranged, in writing at or prior to the Effective Date of Merger.
 
Memoranda of Agreement” or “MOAs” means the separate memoranda of agreement relating to the Vessels, each dated the date hereof, between the Buyer or its nominees and the Vessel Owning Subsidiaries, each of which are attached hereto as Exhibit A.
 
Memorandum of Understanding” means the letter agreement dated November 23, 2006 by and between the Seller and Star Maritime.


 

Merger” means the business combination of Star Maritime with the Buyer effected by way of a merger in which the Buyer is the surviving corporation and where the merger consideration consists of one share of Buyer Common Stock for each share of common stock of Star Maritime.
 
NASD” shall mean the National Association of Securities Dealers, Inc., or any successor self regulatory organization.
 
Registrable Securities” shall mean the Buyer Common Stock issued to and owned by the Seller, the Vessel Owning Subsidiaries or any Seller Affiliates (i) as the Stock Consideration and (ii) under Section 2(b) hereof.
 
Registrable Securities Holder” shall mean any of the Seller, the Vessel Owning Subsidiaries or a Seller Affiliate holding the Registrable Securities.
 
Revenue” means gross revenue of the Buyer and its consolidated subsidiaries which own and operate the Vessels, as determined under United States generally accepted accounting principles.
 
SEC” or “Commission” means the United States Securities and Exchange Commission.
 
Securities Act” shall mean the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, or any similar federal statute, and the rules and regulations of the Commission thereunder, all as the same shall be in effect from time to time.
 
Seller Affiliates” shall mean any entity which is an “affiliate” of the Seller, as that term is defined under Rule 144 (in effect as of the date hereof) promulgated under the Securities Act.
 
Stock Consideration” means 12,537,645 shares of Buyer Common Stock.
 
Supplemental Agreement” means the agreement by and among Star Maritime, the Buyer and the Seller, dated the date hereof, relating to the purchase of the Vessels and attached hereto as Exhibit B.
 
USD” or “$” means legal tender of the United States of America.
 
Vessel” or “Vessels” means each of the vessels, and collectively, all of the vessels being sold pursuant to the MOAs listed in Schedule 3 of the Supplemental Agreement.
 
Vessel Owning Subsidiaries” means the subsidiaries of the Seller that are party to the Memoranda of Agreement.
 
SECTION 2. Purchase Price: Earn-out.
 
(a) The Buyer or its subsidiary nominees shall purchase the Vessels for the Aggregate Purchase Price, which consists of two components: (1) the Stock Consideration and (2) the Cash Consideration. The Aggregate Purchase Price shall be paid in accordance with the terms and provisions of the Memoranda of Agreement and the Supplemental Agreement.


 
 
(b) In addition to the Aggregate Purchase Price:
 
(1) With respect to the short fiscal year of the Buyer commencing as of the Effective Date of Merger and ending on December 31, 2007, in the event that the Buyer achieves Revenue for such short fiscal year equal to or in excess of 80% of the Forecasted Annual Consolidated Revenue for such short fiscal year, then the Seller shall be entitled to receive, promptly following the Buyer's filing of its Annual Report on Form 20-F for such fiscal year, an additional 803,481 shares of Buyer Common Stock (which shall be issued no later than ten (10) business days following the filing of such Annual Report to the Seller, the Vessel Owning Subsidiaries and/or a Seller Affiliate, as directed by the Seller); plus
 
(2) With respect to the first full fiscal year of the Buyer following the Merger commencing on January 1, 2008 and ending on December 31, 2008, in the event that the Buyer achieves Revenue for such first full fiscal year equal to or in excess of 80% of the Forecasted Annual Consolidated Revenue for such first full fiscal year, then the Seller shall be entitled to receive, promptly following the Buyer's filing of its Annual Report on Form 20-F for such fiscal year, an additional 803,481 shares of Buyer Common Stock (which shall be issued no later than ten (10) business days following the filing of such Annual Report to the Seller, the Vessel Owning Subsidiaries or a Seller Affiliate, as directed by the Seller).
 
(c) In addition to the terms and provisions of the MOAs and the Supplemental Agreement, the Buyer's obligations hereunder shall also be subject to the Buyer obtaining debt financing in such amount as necessary in order for the Buyer to fund a portion of the Cash Consideration in excess of its cash-on-hand immediately following the Merger.
 
SECTION 3. Covenants of the Seller. Until the delivery of each of the Vessels, the Seller shall (and shall cause the Vessel Owning Subsidiaries, as applicable, to): (a) use its commercially reasonable efforts to: (i) prevent the Vessel Owning Subsidiaries from becoming insolvent (within the meaning of the U.S. Bankruptcy Code), (ii) continue to operate its business as it is currently conducted, (iii) retain ownership and possession of the Vessels (subject to any charters in respect of the Vessels) and (iv) forbear from creating any new liens, claims or encumbrances of any kind upon the Vessels or any other material assets of the Vessel Owning Subsidiaries (except, in each case, other than in the ordinary course of business and subject to any charters in respect of the Vessels) and (b) forbear from selling any interest in any Vessel Owning Subsidiary and cause each Vessel Owning Subsidiary to forbear from issuing any capital stock or other securities to, or making loans (other than in the ordinary course of its business) to, any person other than the Seller.
 
SECTION 4. Covenants of Star Maritime. Star Maritime shall use its commercially reasonable efforts to: (a) as soon as is reasonably practicable following the date hereof, file a registration/proxy statement on Form F-4 or S-4 with the SEC: (i) soliciting the vote of Star Maritime's stockholders in favor of the Merger and the purchase of the Vessels as contemplated hereby and (ii) subject to provisions of Section 5(a) below, registering the Registrable Securities with the SEC, (b) comply, and cause the Buyer and its Vessel purchasing nominees to comply with all other applicable rules and regulations of the SEC, (c) obtain, on behalf of itself, the Buyer and its Vessel purchasing nominees, all approvals, consents, exemptions or authorizations from such governmental agencies or authorities, and take all other actions, as may be necessary or reasonably appropriate in order to effect the Merger and transactions contemplated by this Agreement, the Supplemental Agreement and the MOAs.


 
SECTION 5. Registration Rights: Lock Up.
 
(a) Registration on Form F-4. Buyer shall include the Registrable Securities on Buyer's Registration Statement on Form F-4 or S-4 contemplated in Section 4(a) above to the extent that such inclusion would not, in Buyer's reasonable judgment after receiving written comments from the SEC that address the registration of the Registrable Securities, materially hinder or delay the Commission's declaration of effectiveness thereof.
 
(b) Required Shelf Registration. After receipt of a written request from the Seller, on behalf of itself or any Registrable Securities Holder, requesting that the Buyer effect a registration under the Securities Act covering all of the shares of the Registrable Securities then unregistered and outstanding, and specifying the holders and intended method or methods of disposition thereof, the Buyer shall promptly file with the SEC a registration statement covering the Registrable Securities and, as expeditiously as is possible, use its commercially reasonable efforts to effect the registration under the Securities Act of such shares for sale, all to the extent required to permit the disposition (in accordance with the intended method or methods thereof, as aforesaid) of the Registrable Securities so registered; provided, however, that the Buyer shall not be required to effect any such registrations pursuant to this Section 5(b) unless the Buyer shall be eligible at any time to file a registration statement on Form F-3 or S-3 (or other comparable short form) under the Securities Act. If, at any time after giving the written notice under this Section 5(b), the Seller shall notify the Buyer in writing that the Seller has determined for any reason not to proceed with the proposed offering, then the Buyer shall terminate such offering.
 
(c) Incidental Registration. (i) If, from and after the date that is one hundred and eighty (180) days following the Effective Date of Merger, the Buyer at any time proposes to file on its behalf and/or on behalf of any of its security holders other than any Registrable Securities Holder (the demanding security holders”) a registration statement under the Securities Act on any form (other than a registration statement on Form F-4, S-4 or S-8 or any successor form for securities to be offered in a transaction of the type referred to in Rule 145 under the Securities Act or to employees of the Buyer pursuant to any employee benefit plan, respectively) for the general registration of securities, it will give written notice to all the Registrable Securities Holders at least thirty (30) days before the initial filing with the Commission of such Registration Statement, which notice shall set forth the intended method of disposition of the securities proposed to be registered by the Buyer or the demanding security holders. The notice shall offer to include in such filing the aggregate number of shares of Registrable Securities as the Seller may request. The Seller shall be entitled to withdraw its request at any time before the time that the Registration Statement is declared effective and the offering has commenced.



(ii) The Seller shall advise Buyer in writing within ten (10) business days after the date of receipt of such offer from Buyer, setting forth the amount of such Registrable Securities for which registration is requested and the holders thereof. The Buyer shall thereupon include in such filing the number of shares of Registrable Securities for which registration is so requested, subject to the next sentence, and shall use its commercially reasonable efforts to effect registration under the Securities Act of such shares. If a proposed public offering pursuant to this Section 5(c) is an underwritten offering, and if the managing underwriter thereof shall advise the Buyer in writing that, in its opinion, the distribution of the Registrable Securities requested to be included in the registration concurrently with the securities being registered by the Buyer or such demanding security holder would materially and adversely affect the distribution of such securities by the Buyer or such demanding security holder, then all selling security holders (including the demanding security holder who initially requested such registration) shall reduce the amount of securities each intended to distribute through such offering on a pro rata basis, it being understood that the number of securities offered by the Buyer shall not be subject to any such pro rata reduction. Except as otherwise provided in Section 5(e), all expenses of such registration shall be borne by the Buyer.
 
(d) Registration Procedures. If the Buyer is required by the provisions of Section 5(b) or (c) to effect the registration of any of its securities under the Securities Act, the Buyer will, as expeditiously as possible:
 
(i) prepare and file with the Commission a registration statement with respect to such securities and use its commercially reasonable efforts to cause such registration statement to become and remain effective for a period of time required for the disposition of such securities by the holders thereof (which period of time shall be no later than the period that the Registrable Securities Holders could sell or dispose the Registrable Securities without restrictions pursuant to Rule 144(k) promulgated under the Securities Act);
 
(ii) prepare and file with the Commission such amendments and supplements to such registration statement and the prospectus used in connection therewith as may be necessary to keep such registration statement effective and to comply with the provisions of the Securities Act with respect to the sale or other disposition of all securities covered by such registration statement until the such time as all of such securities have been fully disposed of;
 
(iii) furnish to all selling security holders (including the Registrable Securities Holders) such number of copies of a prospectus, including a preliminary prospectus, in conformity with the requirements of the Securities Act, and such other documents, as such selling security holders may reasonably request;
 
(iv) use its commercially reasonable efforts to register or qualify the securities covered by such registration statement under such other securities or blue sky laws of such jurisdictions within the United States and Puerto Rico as each holder of such securities shall request (provided, however, that the Buyer shall not be obligated to qualify as a foreign corporation to do business under the laws of any jurisdiction in which it is not then qualified or to file any general consent to service or process), and do such other reasonable acts and things as may be required of it to enable such holder to consummate the disposition in such jurisdiction of the securities covered by such registration statement;


 

(v) furnish, at the request of the selling Registrable Securities Holder(s), on the date that such shares of Registrable Securities are delivered to the underwriters for sale pursuant to a registration that is underwritten or, if such Registrable Securities are not being sold through underwriters, on the date that the registration statement with respect to such shares of Registrable Securities becomes effective, (A) an opinion, dated such date, of the counsel representing the Buyer for the purposes of such registration, addressed to the underwriters, if any, and if such Registrable Securities are not being sold through underwriters, then to the selling Registrable Securities Holder(s), in customary form and covering matters of the type customarily covered in such legal opinions; and (B) a comfort letter dated such date, from the independent certified public accountants of the Buyer, addressed to the underwriters, if any, and the selling Registrable Securities Holder(s), in a customary form and covering matters of the type customarily covered by such comfort letters and as the they shall reasonably request;
 
(vi) enter into customary agreements (including an underwriting agreement in customary form, it being understood that any underwriting agreement entered into by the selling Registrable Securities Holder(s) with respect to an underwritten offering of Registrable Securities will impose customary indemnification obligations on the underwriter(s)) and take such other actions as are reasonably required in order to expedite or facilitate the disposition of such Registrable Securities;
 
(vii) cooperate reasonably with any managing underwriter to effect the sale of Registrable Securities, including but not limited to attendance of the Buyer's executive officers at any planned “road show” presentations to the extent that such attendance does not unduly or unreasonably impact the performance of such officer's duties;
 
(viii) notify the selling Registrable Securities Holder(s) and the underwriter(s), if any, in writing at any time when the Buyer is aware that offering documents include an untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state a material fact required to be stated therein or necessary to make the statements therein not misleading in light of the circumstances then existing, and at the request of any selling Registrable Securities Holder or underwriter, prepare and furnish to such person(s) such reasonable number of copies of any amendment or supplement to the offering documents as may be necessary so that, as thereafter delivered to the purchasers of such shares, such offering documents would not include any untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state a material fact required to be stated therein or necessary to make the statements therein not misleading in light of the circumstances then existing, and to deliver to purchasers of any other securities of the Buyer included in the offering copies of such offering documents as so amended or supplemented;
 
(ix) promptly notify the selling Registrable Securities Holder(s) of (A) the effectiveness of such offering documents, (B) the issuance by the Commission of an order suspending the effectiveness of the offering documents, or of the threat of any proceeding for that purpose, and (C) the suspension of the qualification of any securities to be included in the offering documents for sale in any jurisdiction or the initiation or threat of any proceeding for that purpose; and
 
(x) cause all Registrable Securities registered hereunder to be listed on each securities exchange on which similar securities issued by the Buyer are then listed.


 

It shall be a condition precedent to the obligation of the Buyer to take any action pursuant to this Section 5 in respect of the securities which are to be registered at the request of the Registrable Securities Holder(s) that the Registrable Securities Holder(s) shall furnish to the Buyer such information regarding the securities held by the Registrable Securities Holder(s) and the intended method of disposition thereof as the Buyer shall reasonably request and as shall be required in connection with the action taken by the Buyer.
 
(e) Expenses. All expenses incurred in complying with this Section 5, including, without limitation, all registration and filing fees (including all expenses incident to filing with the NASD), all “road show” expenses incurred by the Buyer or the Registrable Securities Holder(s) and all applicable selling security holders, printing expenses, fees and disbursements of counsel for the Buyer, the reasonable fees and expenses of one counsel for the selling security holders (selected by those holding a majority of the shares being registered), expenses of any special audits incident to or required by any such registration and expenses of complying with the securities or blue sky laws of any jurisdiction pursuant to Section 5(d)(iv), shall be paid by the Buyer, except that the Buyer shall not be liable for any fees, discounts or commissions to any underwriter or any fees or disbursements of counsel for any underwriter in respect of the securities sold by any applicable selling security holders, including the Registrable Securities Holders.
 
(f) Indemnification and Contribution.
 
(i) In the event of any registration of any Registrable Securities under the Securities Act pursuant to this Agreement, the Buyer shall indemnify and hold harmless the Registrable Securities Holders, their respective directors and officers, and each other person (including each underwriter) who participated in the offering of such Registrable Securities and each other person, if any, who controls the Registrable Securities Holders or such participating person within the meaning of the Securities Act (collectively, the “Seller Indemnitees”) from and against any losses, claims, damages or liabilities, joint or several, to which a Seller Indemnitee may become subject under the Securities Act or any other statute or at common law, insofar as such losses, claims, damages or liabilities (or actions in respect thereof) arise out of or are based upon: (i) any untrue statement or any alleged untrue statement of any material fact contained or incorporated by reference, on the effective date thereof, in any registration statement under which such securities were registered under the Securities Act, any preliminary prospectus or final prospectus contained therein, any free writing prospectus or any amendment or supplement thereto, (ii) any omission or any alleged omission to state therein a material fact required to be stated therein or necessary to make the statements therein not misleading, or (iii) any other violation of any applicable securities laws, and in each of the foregoing circumstances shall pay for or reimburse the Seller Indemnitees for any legal or any other expenses reasonably incurred by all or any one of the Seller Indemnitees in connection with investigating or defending any such loss, claim, damage, liability or action; provided,however, that, with respect to any Seller Indemnitee, the Buyer shall not be liable in any such case to the extent that any such loss, claim, damage or liability has been found by a court of competent jurisdiction to have been based upon any actual untrue statement or actual omission made or incorporated by reference in such registration statement, preliminary prospectus, prospectus, free writing prospectus or any amendment or supplement thereto solely in reliance upon and in conformity with written information furnished to the Buyer by such Seller Indemnitee specifically for use therein. Such indemnity shall remain in full force and effect regardless of any investigation made by or on behalf of a Seller Indemnitee, and shall survive the transfer of such securities by a Seller Indemnitee.


 
(ii) In the event of any registration of any Registrable Securities under the Securities Act pursuant to this Agreement, the Registrable Securities Holders, by acceptance hereof, agrees to indemnify and hold harmless the Buyer, its directors and officers and each other person, if any, who controls the Buyer within the meaning of the Securities Act and any other person (including each underwriter) who participated in the offering of such Registrable Securities (collectively, the “Buyer Indemnitees”) against any losses, claims, damages or liabilities, joint or several, to which the Buyer Indemnitees may become subject under the Securities Act or any other statute or at common law, insofar as such losses, claims, damages or liabilities (or actions in respect thereof) arise out of or are based upon: (i) any untrue statement or any alleged untrue statement of any material fact contained or incorporated by reference, on the effective date thereof, in any registration statement under which such securities were registered under the Securities Act, any preliminary prospectus or final prospectus contained therein, any free writing prospectus, or any amendment or supplement thereto, or (ii) any omission or any alleged omission to state therein a material fact required to be stated therein or necessary to make the statements therein not misleading, but in either case only to the extent that such untrue statement or omission is (A) made in reliance on and in conformity with any information furnished in writing by the Seller to the Buyer concerning the Seller specifically for inclusion in the registration statement, preliminary prospectus, prospectus, free writing prospectus or any amendment or supplement thereto relating to such offering, and (B) is not corrected by the Seller and distributed to the purchasers of shares within a reasonable period of time.
 
(iii) If the indemnification provided for in this Section 5 from an indemnifying party is unavailable to an indemnified party hereunder in respect of any losses, claims, damages, liabilities or expenses referred to therein, then the indemnifying party, in lieu of indemnifying such indemnified party, shall contribute to the amount paid or payable by such indemnified party as a result of such losses, claims, damages, liabilities or expenses in such proportion as is appropriate to reflect the relative fault of the indemnifying party and indemnified parties in connection with the actions which resulted in such losses, claims, damages, liabilities or expenses, as well as any other relevant equitable considerations. The relative fault of such indemnifying party and indemnified parties shall be determined by reference to, among other things, whether any action in question, including any untrue or alleged untrue statement of a material fact or omission or alleged omission to state a material fact, has been made by, or relates to information supplied by, such indemnifying party or indemnified parties, and the parties' relative intent, knowledge, access to information and opportunity to correct or prevent such action. The amount paid or payable by a party as a result of the losses, claims, damages, liabilities and expenses referred to above shall be deemed to include any legal or other fees or expenses reasonably incurred by such party in connection with any investigation or proceeding.
 
(iv) The parties hereto agree that it would not be just and equitable if contribution pursuant to Section 5(f)(iii) were determined by pro rata allocation or by any other method of allocation which does not take account of the equitable considerations referred to in the immediately preceding paragraph. No person guilty of fraudulent misrepresentation (within the meaning of Section 11 (f) of the Securities Act) shall be entitled to contribution from any person who was not guilty of such fraudulent misrepresentation.


 

(g) Certain Limitations on Registration Rights. Notwithstanding the other provisions of this Section 5, the Buyer shall have the right to delay the filing or effectiveness of a registration statement required pursuant to Section 5(b) hereof during one or more periods aggregating not more than one hundred and twenty (120) days in any twelve-month period in the event that: (i) if counsel to the Buyer is of the opinion that the filing of such a registration statement would require the disclosure of material non-public information about the Buyer, the disclosure of which the Buyer believes, in good faith, could have a material adverse effect on the business or financial condition of the Buyer or (ii) the Buyer furnishes to the Seller or other holders requesting the filing of a registration statement, a certificate signed by the President or Chief Executive Officer of the Buyer stating that, in the good faith judgment of the Board of the Buyer, it would be seriously detrimental to the Buyer and its shareholders for such registration statement to be filed and it is therefore essential to defer the filing of such registration statement.
 
(h) “Market Stand-Off" Agreement. The Seller (on behalf of itself and each Registrable Securities Holder) hereby agrees, in connection with any firm commitment, underwritten public offering by the Buyer of its securities, that it shall not, to the extent requested by the Buyer or an underwriter of such securities, sell or otherwise transfer or dispose of or engage in any other transaction regarding any Registrable Securities or other shares of the Buyer then owned by the Seller or any Registrable Securities Holder for a period not to exceed one hundred and eighty (180) days following the effective date of a registration statement of the Buyer filed under the Securities Act in connection with such firm commitment, underwritten public offering by the Buyer; provided, however, that the foregoing shall only be applicable if all executive officers and directors of the Buyer and holders of 5% or greater of the shares of the Buyer are required to enter into similar agreements, it being agreed that the “lock-up” period for Seller or any Registrable Securities Holder shall not to exceed the period applicable to such officers and directors and shareholders and shall in no event exceed one hundred and eighty (180) days following the effective date of such registration statement.
 
(i) Resale Exemptions; Reports Under Exchange Act. In order to permit the Seller to sell the Registrable Securities, if it so desires, pursuant to any applicable resale exemption under applicable securities laws and regulations, the Buyer will:
 
(i) comply with all rules and regulations of the Commission in connection with use of any such resale exemption;
 
(ii) make and keep available adequate and current public information regarding the Buyer;
 
(iii) file with the Commission in a timely manner, all reports and other documents required to be filed under the Securities Act, the Exchange Act, or other applicable securities laws and regulations;
 
(iv) furnish to the Registrable Securities Holders, upon written request, copies of annual reports required to be filed under the Exchange Act and other applicable securities laws and regulations; and
 
(v) furnish to the Registrable Securities Holders, upon written request (A) a copy of the most recent quarterly report of the Buyer and such other reports and documents filed by the Buyer with the Commission and (ii) such other information as may be reasonably required to permit the Registrable Securities Holders to sell pursuant to any applicable resale exemption under the Securities Act or other applicable securities law and regulations, if any.


 
 
(j) Lock-up. The Seller (on behalf of itself and each Registrable Securities Holder) hereby agrees that, without the prior written consent of the Buyer, it (a) will not, directly or indirectly, offer, sell, agree to offer or sell, solicit offers to purchase, grant any call option or purchase any put option with respect to, pledge, borrow or otherwise dispose of any of the Registrable Securities representing the Stock Consideration and (b) will not establish or increase any “put equivalent position” or liquidate or decrease any “call equivalent position” with respect to any of the Registrable Securities representing the Stock Consideration (in each case within the meaning of Section 16 of the Exchange Act), or otherwise enter into any swap, derivative or other transaction or arrangement that transfers to another, in whole or in part, any economic consequence of ownership of any of the Registrable Securities representing the Stock Consideration, whether or not such transaction is to be settled by delivery of Registrable Securities representing the Stock Consideration, other securities, cash or other consideration for a period of one hundred and eighty (180) days commencing on the date of issuance of Registrable Securities representing the Stock Consideration; provided, however, that, notwithstanding the foregoing, the Seller and the Vessel Owning Subsidiaries shall be permitted to transfer all or any portion of the Registrable Securities representing the Stock Consideration among themselves or to any Seller Affiliate; provided, further, that prior to any such transfer the transferor at its expense shall provide to the Buyer an opinion of counsel reasonably acceptable to the Buyer to the effect that that such transfer would not require registration under the Securities Act. The Seller hereby further agrees to cause each Registrable Securities Holder to enter into a lock-up agreement giving effect to the provisions of this Section 5(j) immediately upon such Registrable Securities Holder's acquisition of Registrable Securities representing the Stock Consideration.
 
(k) Termination. The rights granted under this Section 5 shall expire at such time as the Registrable Securities Holders collectively (i) hold less than five (5%) percent of the outstanding Buyer Common Stock, or (ii) are eligible to sell their Registrable Securities without restriction under Rule 144(k) promulgated under the Securities Act (it being agreed, for purposes of this Section 5(k)(ii), that the Buyer, upon the request of a Registrable Securities Holder and at its expense, shall provide to Buyer's transfer agent a legal opinion of its counsel regarding the ability of such holder to sell its Registrable Securities under Rule 144(k) and any appropriate legend removal instructions).
 
(1) Legends. The Seller hereby acknowledges and agrees that the Buyer shall legend the share certificates representing the Registrable Securities to reflect the restrictions on transfer contained in this Agreement and may issue to its transfer agent a stop transfer instruction in relation thereto. Such legend shall state:
 
THE SHARES OF COMMON STOCK REPRESENTED HEREBY HAVE NOT BEEN REGISTERED UNDER THE SECURITIES ACT OF 1933, AS AMENDED, OR ANY STATE SECURITIES LAWS, AND MAY NOT BE SOLD, ASSIGNED, TRANSFERRED, PLEDGED, ENCUMBERED OR OTHERWISE DISPOSED OF IN THE ABSENCE OF SUCH REGISTRATION OR UNLESS THE COMPANY HAS RECEIVED AN OPINION OF COUNSEL SATISFACTORY TO THE COMPANY AND ITS COUNSEL THAT SUCH TRANSACTION IS EXEMPT FROM, OR NOT SUBJECT TO, REGISTRATION.


 
 
THE SHARES REPRESENTED BY THIS CERTIFICATE ARE SUBJECT TO AN AGREEMENT BY THE REGISTERED HOLDER WITH THE COMPANY NOT TO SELL SUCH SHARES FOR A PERIOD OF 180 DAYS FOLLOWING THE DATE OF ISSUANCE OF THE SHARES.
 
SECTION 6. Director Nominees. Subject to satisfactory due diligence, including but not limited to, completion of Directors' & Officers' questionnaires, the Seller shall have the right to nominate and the Buyer and Star Maritime hereby agree to cause the appointment and election of two (2) members of the board of directors of the Buyer, it being understood and agreed that the initial nominees and directors (to be listed in the registration/proxy statement referred to in Section 4(a) hereof) shall be Mr. Nobu Su and Mr. Peter Espig, each of whom shall serve upon the Effective Date of Merger for one (1) year therefrom in the case of Mr. Nobu Su and for two (2) years therefrom in the case of Mr. Peter Espig or until their successors have been duly elected and qualified. For so long as Mr. Nobu Su serves on the board of directors of the Buyer, he shall receive the title of non-executive Co-Chairman of the Buyer.
 
SECTION 7. Third Party Agreements. The Buyer or any of its subsidiaries or affiliates may enter into agreements to purchase vessels and other assets other than the Vessels. This Master Agreement shall in no way restrict or prohibit the Buyer or its subsidiaries or affiliates from negotiating or completing such transactions. The Seller or any of its subsidiaries or affiliates may enter into agreements relating to vessels or other assets other than the Vessels; provided that, in no event shall the Seller or any of its subsidiaries enter into any agreements, negotiations or transactions that would materially adversely affect the obligations of the Seller or any of its Vessel Owning Subsidiaries hereunder.
 
SECTION 8. Representations and Warranties of the Seller. The Seller (on behalf of itself and, with respect to the representations and warranties contained in subsections (e) through (h), each Registrable Securities Holder) hereby makes the following representations and warranties to the Buyer and Star Maritime:
 
(a) it is duly organized and existing under the laws of the jurisdiction of its organization with full power and authority to execute and deliver this Agreement and to perform all of the duties and obligations to be performed by it under this Agreement;
 
(b) this Agreement has been duly authorized, executed and delivered by it, and constitutes its valid, legal and binding obligation enforceable against it in accordance with its terms, except as enforceability may be limited by bankruptcy, insolvency or other similar laws of general application relating to or affecting the enforcement of creditors' rights in general or by general principles of equity whether considered in a proceeding at law or equity;


 
 
(c) its execution and delivery of, the performance and incurrence by it of its obligations and liabilities under, and the consummation by it of the other transactions contemplated by, this Agreement do not and will not (i) violate any provision of its organizational documents, (ii) violate any applicable law, rule or regulation, (iii) violate any order, writ, injunction or decree of any court or governmental or regulatory authority or agency or any arbitral award applicable to it or its affiliates or (iv) subject to the consent of applicable charterers of the Vessels, result in a breach of, constitute a default under, require any consent under, or result in the acceleration or required prepayment of any indebtedness pursuant to the terms of, any agreement or instrument of which it is a party or by which it is bound or to which it is subject, or result in the creation or imposition of any lien upon any property of it pursuant to the terms of any such agreement or instrument, in the case of (i), (ii), (iii) or (iv) which could have a material adverse effect on the transactions contemplated hereby;
 
(d) there are no legal or governmental actions, suits or proceedings pending or, to its knowledge, threatened against it before any court, administrative agency or tribunal which, if determined adversely to it, could reasonably be expected to adversely affect the ability of it to perform its obligations under this Agreement;
 
(e) it is an “accredited investor” within the meaning of Rule 501 of Regulation D under the Securities Act;
 
(f) it has received or has had full access to all the information it considers necessary or appropriate to make an informed decision with respect to the acquisition of Buyer Common Stock;
 
(g) the Buyer Common Stock being acquired by it are being acquired for its own account for the purpose of investment and not with a view to, or for resale in connection with, any distribution thereof within the meaning of the Securities Act; and
 
(h) it understands that (i) the shares of Buyer Common Stock have not been registered under the Securities Act by reason of their issuance in a transaction exempt from the registration requirements of the Securities Act, (ii) the shares of Buyer Common Stock must be held indefinitely (subject, however, to the Buyer's obligation to effect the registration of registrable securities in accordance with Section 5 hereof) unless a subsequent disposition thereof is registered under the Securities Act or is exempt from such registration, and (iii) the shares of Buyer Common Stock will bear the legend to such effect set forth in Section 5(1) hereof.
 
SECTION 9. Representations and Warranties of the Buyer. The Buyer makes the following representations and warranties to the Seller and Star Maritime:
 
(a) it is duly organized and existing under the laws of the jurisdiction of its organization with full power and authority to execute and deliver this Agreement and to perform all of the duties and obligations to be performed by it under this Agreement;
 
(b) this Agreement has been duly authorized, executed and delivered by it, and constitutes its valid, legal and binding obligation enforceable against it in accordance with its terms, except as enforceability may be limited by bankruptcy, insolvency or other similar laws of general application relating to or affecting the enforcement of creditors' rights in general or by general principles of equity whether considered in a proceeding at law or equity;


 
(c) its execution and delivery of, the performance and incurrence by it of its obligations and liabilities under, and the consummation by it of the other transactions contemplated by, this Agreement do not and will not (i) violate any provision of its organizational documents, (ii) violate any applicable law, rule or regulation, (iii) violate any order, writ, injunction or decree of any court or governmental or regulatory authority or agency or any arbitral award applicable to it or its affiliates or (iv) result in a breach of, constitute a default under, require any consent under, or result in the acceleration or required prepayment of any indebtedness pursuant to the terms of, any agreement or instrument of which it is a party or by which it is bound or to which it is subject, or result in the creation or imposition of any lien upon any property of it pursuant to the terms of any such agreement or instrument, in the case of (i), (ii), (iii) or (iv) which could have a material adverse effect on the transactions contemplated hereby; and
 
(d) there are no legal or governmental actions, suits or proceedings pending or, to its actual knowledge, threatened against it before any court, administrative agency or tribunal which, if determined adversely to it, could reasonably be expected to adversely affect the ability of it to perform its obligations under this Agreement.
 
SECTION 10. Representations and Warranties of Star Maritime. Star Maritime makes the following representations and warranties to the Seller and the Buyer:
 
(a) it is duly organized and existing under the laws of the jurisdiction of its organization with full power and authority to execute and deliver this Agreement and to perform all of the duties and obligations to be performed by it under this Agreement;
 
(b) this Agreement has been duly authorized, executed and delivered by it, and constitutes its valid, legal and binding obligation enforceable against it in accordance with its terms, except as enforceability may be limited by bankruptcy, insolvency or other similar laws of general application relating to or affecting the enforcement of creditors' rights in general or by general principles of equity whether considered in a proceeding at law or equity;
 
(c) its execution and delivery of, the performance and incurrence by it of its obligations and liabilities under, and the consummation by it of the other transactions contemplated by, this Agreement do not and will not (i) violate any provision of its organizational documents, (ii) violate any applicable law, rule or regulation, (iii) violate any order, writ, injunction or decree of any court or governmental or regulatory authority or agency or any arbitral award applicable to it or its affiliates or (iv) result in a breach of, constitute a default under, require any consent under, or result in the acceleration or required prepayment of any indebtedness pursuant to the terms of, any agreement or instrument of which it is a party or by which it is bound or to which it is subject, or result in the creation or imposition of any lien upon any property of it pursuant to the terms of any such agreement or instrument, in the case of (i), (ii), (iii) or (iv) which could have a material adverse effect on the transactions contemplated hereby; and



(d) there are no legal or governmental actions, suits or proceedings pending or, to its actual knowledge, threatened against it before any court, administrative agency or tribunal which, if determined adversely to it, could reasonably be expected to adversely affect the ability of it to perform its obligations under this Agreement.
 
SECTION 11. Conditions Precedent to the Obligations of the Seller. The obligation of the Seller and the Vessel Owning Subsidiaries to sell and deliver the Vessels to the Buyer is subject to the satisfaction or waiver of the following conditions, which conditions are intended wholly for the benefit of the Seller and the applicable Vessel Owning Subsidiary (with respect to each Vessel):
 
(a) Due Authorization, Execution and Delivery. This Agreement shall have been duly authorized, executed and delivered by the Buyer and Star Maritime, shall be in full force and effect and executed counterparts thereof shall have been delivered to the Seller;
 
(b) Representations and Warranties. The representations and warranties of the Buyer and Star Maritime contained in this Agreement shall be true and correct;
 
(c) Illegality. The performance of the transactions contemplated hereby upon the terms and subject to the conditions set forth in this Agreement shall not, in the reasonable judgment of the Seller, violate, and shall not subject the Seller, any Vessel Owning Subsidiary or any Seller Affiliate to any material penalty or liability under, any law, rule or regulation binding upon any of them;
 
(d) No Proceedings. No legal or governmental action, suit or proceeding shall have been instituted or threatened before any court, administrative agency or tribunal, nor shall any order, judgment or decree have been issued or proposed to be issued by any court, administrative agency or tribunal, to set aside, restrain, enjoin or prevent the consummation of this Agreement or the transactions contemplated hereby.
 
(e) Performance of Obligations. Star Maritime, the Buyer and Buyer's Vessel purchasing nominees shall have performed all obligations required of them under this Agreement, the Supplemental Agreement and the MOAs in all material respects.
 
SECTION 12. Conditions Precedent to the Obligations of the Buyer. The obligation of the Buyer to purchase the Vessels from the Seller or the Vessel Owning Subsidiaries is subject to the satisfaction or waiver of the following conditions, which conditions are intended wholly for the benefit of the Buyer:
 
(a) Due Authorization. Execution and Delivery. This Agreement shall have been duly authorized, executed and delivered by the Seller, shall be in full force and effect and executed counterparts thereof shall have been delivered to the Buyer;
 
(b) Representations and Warranties. The representations and warranties of the Seller contained in this Agreement shall be true and correct;


 

(c) Illegality. The performance of the transactions contemplated hereby upon the terms and subject to the conditions set forth in this Agreement shall not, in the reasonable judgment of the Buyer, violate, and shall not subject the Buyer to any material penalty or liability under, any law, rule or regulation binding upon the Buyer;
 
(d) No Proceedings. No legal or governmental action, suit or proceeding shall have been instituted or threatened before any court, administrative agency or tribunal, nor shall any order, judgment or decree have been issued or proposed to be issued by any court, administrative agency or tribunal, to set aside, restrain, enjoin or prevent the consummation of this Agreement or the transactions contemplated hereby.
 
(e) Performance of Obligations. The Seller and each Vessel Owning Subsidiary shall have performed all obligations required of them under this Agreement, the Supplemental Agreement and the MOAs in all material respects.
 
SECTION 13. Further Assurances and Other Matters. Each of the Seller, the Buyer and Star Maritime agrees, upon the request of the other party, at any time and from time to time, promptly to execute and deliver all such further documents, promptly to take and forbear from all such action, and obtain all approvals, consents, exemptions or authorizations from such governmental agencies or authorities as may be necessary or reasonably appropriate in order to effect the Merger and more effectively confirm or carry out the provisions of this Agreement and the other documents entered into in connection herewith.
 
SECTION 14. Term and Termination. This Agreement shall terminate and be of no further force and effect: (i) upon satisfaction or waiver of all obligations of all parties arising under this Agreement, the Supplemental Agreement and the MOAs or (ii) in the event that the stockholders of Star Maritime do not approve the Merger or the sale and purchase of the Vessels as contemplated by this Agreement, the Supplemental Agreement and the MOAs, provided, however that Sections 6, 7 and 15 hereof shall survive the termination of this Agreement and remain in full force and effect if such termination is as a result of satisfaction or waiver of all obligations of all parties arising under the MOAs.
 
SECTION 15. Miscellaneous.
 
(a) Termination of Memorandum of Understanding. The Memorandum of Understanding is hereby terminated and of no force and effect.
 
(b) Notices. All notices provided hereunder shall be given in writing and either delivered personally or by overnight courier service or sent by certified mail, return receipt requested, or by facsimile transmission,
 
if to the Buyer, to:
 
Star Bulk Carriers Corp.
c/o Seward & Kissel LLP
One Battery Park Plaza
New York, NY 10004


 

Attention:         Derick Betts, Esq.
Robert E. Lustrin, Esq.
Fax No:            +1(212) 480-8421
 
if to Star Maritime, to:
 
Star Bulk Carriers Corp.
c/o Seward & Kissel LLP
One Battery Park Plaza
New York, NY 10004
Attention:         Derick Betts, Esq.
Robert E. Lustrin, Esq.
Fax No:             +1 (212) 480-8421
 
if to the Seller to:
 
TMT Co., Ltd.
12 Floor 167 FU HSN NORTH ROAD
Taipei 105
Taiwan, Republic of China
Attention: Corporate Secretary
Telephone: 011 866 2 221750229
 
with a copy (which shall not constitute notice) to:
 
Ellenoff Grossman & Schole LLP
370 Lexington Avenue
New York, NY 10017
Attention: Douglas S. Ellenoff, Esq.
Fax No.: (212) 370-7889
 
or to such other address as the parties shall from time to time designate in writing. Any notice delivered personally or by fax shall be deemed given upon receipt (with confirmation of receipt required in the case of fax transmissions); any notice given by overnight courier shall be deemed given on the next business day after delivery to the overnight courier; and any notice given by certified mail shall be deemed given upon the second business day after certification thereof.
 
(c) Governing Law. This Agreement shall be governed by and construed under the laws of the State of New York without regard to conflicts of laws principles. Any action or proceeding (other than with respect to disputes under the MOAs and the Supplemental Agreement, which shall be subject to the dispute resolution provisions thereof) seeking to enforce any provision of, or based on any right arising out of, this Agreement shall be brought against the parties hereto or thereto in the courts of the State of New York, County of New York, or, if it has or can acquire jurisdiction, in the United States District Court for the Southern District of New York, and each of the parties consents to the exclusive jurisdiction of such courts (and of the appropriate appellate courts) in any such action or proceeding and waives any objection to venue laid therein. The parties hereby expressly waive all rights to trial by jury in any suit, action or proceeding arising under this Agreement.


 
(d) Survival of Representations and Warranties. All representations and warranties contained herein shall survive any termination of this Agreement for a period of two (2) years.
 
(e) Headings. Headings used herein are for convenience only and shall not in any way affect the construction of, or be taken into consideration in interpreting, this Agreement.
 
(f) Severabilitv. Any provision of this Agreement which is prohibited or unenforceable in any jurisdiction shall, as to such jurisdiction, be ineffective to the extent of such prohibition or unenforceability without invalidating the remaining provisions hereof or affecting the validity or enforceability of such provision in any other jurisdiction.
 
(g) Amendments in Writing. No amendment, modification, waiver, termination or discharge of any provision of this Agreement, or any consent to any departure by each of the Seller, the Buyer or Star Maritime from any provision hereof, shall in any event be effective unless the same shall be in writing and signed by the parties hereto, and each such amendment, modification, waiver, termination or discharge shall be effective only in the specific instance and for the specific purpose for which given. No provision of this Agreement shall be varied, contradicted or explained by any oral agreement, course of dealing or performance or any other matter not set forth in an agreement in writing and signed by the parties hereto.
 
(h) Expenses. Each party shall be responsible for its own expenses in connection with the preparation, negotiation, execution and delivery of the MOAs, the Supplemental Agreement and this Agreement; provided, however, that regardless of whether this Agreement or the transactions contemplated hereby are terminated, Star Maritime shall pay for or reimburse the Seller for all reasonable fees and expenses of its legal counsel in connection with the preparation, negotiation, execution and delivery of the MOAs, the Supplemental Agreement and this Agreement up to $25,000. The Buyer shall also be responsible for all the reasonable expenses of the Seller in connection with soliciting the stockholders vote in favor of, and the approval of, the Merger and transactions contemplated in this Agreement, the MOAs and the Supplemental Agreement, including all “road show,” travel and lodging expenses, all reasonable fees and expenses of legal counsel, accountants and other advisors and consultants of the Seller.
 
(i) Execution in Counterparts. This Agreement and any amendment, waiver or consent hereto may be executed by the parties hereto in separate counterparts (or upon separate signature pages bound together into one or more counterparts), each of which, when so executed and delivered, shall be an original, but all such counterparts shall together constitute one and the same instrument. All such counterparts may be delivered among the parties hereto by facsimile or other electronic transmission, which shall not affect the validity thereof.
 
(j) Entire Agreement. This Agreement and the other documents referred to herein or therein, on and as of the date hereof, constitute the entire agreement of the parties hereto with respect to the subject matter hereof or thereof, and all prior or contemporaneous understandings or agreements, whether written or oral between the parties hereto with respect to such subject matter (including, without limitation, the Memorandum of Understanding) are hereby superseded in their entirety.


 

(k) Exhibits and Schedules. The exhibits attached hereto or any schedules referenced in this Agreement are incorporated by reference herein and shall have the same force and effect with respect to the provisions set forth therein as though fully set forth in this Agreement.
 
(l) Successors and Assigns. This Agreement shall be binding upon, shall inure to the benefit of and shall be enforceable by the parties hereto and their respective successors and assigns; provided, that, except for permitted transferees of Registrable Securities, who shall be entitled to the benefits of Section 5 hereof, none of the Buyer, the Seller or Star Maritime may assign any of its obligations hereunder without the prior written consent of the other party.
 
(m) Third-Party Beneficiaries. The Buyer and Star Maritime hereby acknowledge and agree that each Vessel Owning Subsidiary shall be a third party beneficiary of the obligations of the Buyer and Star Maritime under this Agreement and each Registrable Security Holder, other than the Seller and each Vessel Owning Subsidiary, shall be a third party beneficiary only with respect to Section 5 of this Agreement and all such entities shall be entitled to enforce such obligations directly against the Buyer and Star Maritime as if they were a party hereto.
 
(n) Non Waiver. Any failure at any time of either party to enforce any provision of this Agreement shall neither constitute a waiver of such provision nor prejudice the right of any party hereto to enforce such provision at any subsequent time.
 
[Signature Page Follows]


 

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties hereto have caused this Agreement to be executed by their respective officers thereunto duly authorized as of the day and date first above written.

     
 
TMT CO., LTD.
for itself individually and for/on behalf of each of the Vessel Owning Subsidiaries and the Registrable Security Hotders
 
 
 
 
 
 
By:   /s/ Nobu Su
 

Name: Nobu Su
Title: Chairman and Chief Executive Officer
     
     
 
STAR BULK CARRIERS CORP.,
for itself individually and for/on behalf of each of its nominees
 
 
 
 
 
 
By:   /s/ Prokopios Tsirigakis
 

Name: Prokopios Tsirigakis
Title: President
     
     
 
STAR MARITIME ACQUISITION CORP.
 
 
 
 
 
 
By:   /s/ Prokopios Tsirigakis
 

Name: Prokopios Tsirigakis
Title: Chairman , Chief Executive Officer and President
 

 
 
Exhibit A
 
MEMORANDA OF AGREEMENT
 
[Attached]
 

 
Exhibit B
 
SUPPLEMENTAL AGREEMENT
 
[Attached]
 

 
AMENDMENT TO MASTER AGREEMENT

TMT CO., LTD., a Taiwan corporation (the “Seller”), STAR BULK CARRIERS CORP., a Marshall Islands corporation (the “Buyer”), and STAR MARITIME ACQUISITION CORP., a Delaware corporation (“Star Maritime”), hereby amend the MASTER AGREEMENT dated as of January 12, 2007 (the “Master Agreement”) by and among the Seller, the Buyer and Star Maritime, as follows:

1.
The definition of the term “Forecasted Annual Consolidated Revenue” contained in Section 1 of the Master Agreement is hereby amended in its entirety to read as follows:

“Forecasted Annual Consolidated Revenue” shall mean: (a) for purposes of Section 2(b)(1) of this Agreement (i) if the Effective Date of Merger occurs on or prior to June 30, 2007, an amount equal to $40 million, or (ii) if the Effective Date of Merger occurs after June 30, 2007, an amount equal to the product of (A) $40 million and (B) the ratio, expressed as a percentage, of the number of days from the Effective Date of Merger to December 31, 2007 over 180; and (b) for purposes of Section 2(b)(2) of this Agreement, $90 million.

2.
All capitalized terms used herein shall have the meanings assigned to them in the Master Agreement, unless defined herein or the context otherwise requires. To the extent that this amendment conflicts with the Master Agreement, this amendment shall govern. Except as amended hereby, all of the provisions of the Master Agreement shall remain and continue in full force and effect.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties hereto have caused this Amendment to Master Agreement to be executed as of February 28, 2007.

TMT CO., LTD.
for itself individually and for/on behalf of each of the Vessel Owning Subsidiaries and the Registrable Security Holders
 
By:  /s/ Nobu Su                                                   
Name: Nobu Su
Title: Chairman and Chief Executive Officer
 
STAR BULK CARRIERS CORP.,
for itself individually and for/on behalf of each of its nominees
 
By:  /s/ Prokopios Tsirigakis                              
Name: Prokopios Tsirigakis
Title: President, CEO
 
STAR MARITIME ACQUISITION CORP.
 
By:  /s/ Prokopios Tsirigakis                              
Name: Prokopios Tsirigakis
Title: President, CEO
 

Appendix K
 
 
AGREEMENT AND PLAN OF MERGER
 
BY AND AMONG
 
STAR BULK CARRIERS CORP.
 
and
 
STAR MARITIME ACQUISITION CORP.
 

 
Dated as of March 14, 2007




AGREEMENT AND PLAN OF MERGER
 
This AGREEMENT AND PLAN OF MERGER (this “Agreement”) is made and entered into as of March 14, 2007 by and among Star Bulk Carriers Corp., a corporation organized under the laws of the Republic of the Marshall Islands (“Star Bulk”) and Star Maritime Acquisition Corp., a corporation organized under the laws of the State of Delaware (“Star Maritime”).
 
WITNESSETH:
 
WHEREAS, Star Maritime currently is the owner of record of 500 shares of common stock of Star Bulk (the “Initial Shares”) representing all of the issued and outstanding shares of Star Bulk;
 
WHEREAS, Star Bulk has entered into a Master Agreement with Star Maritime and TMT Co., Ltd. a Taiwan corporation (“TMT”) dated January 12, 2007 (the “Master Agreement”), eight memoranda of agreement with TMT and certain wholly-owned subsidiaries of TMT for the purchase of a total of eight vessels by Star Bulk from TMT and such subsidiaries (the “MOAs”), as supplemented by a Supplemental Agreement dated January 12, 2007 by and among Star Maritime, Star Bulk and TMT (the “Supplemental Agreement and, together with the Master Agreement and the MOAs, the “Vessel Acquisition Agreements”) providing for the acquisition by Star Bulk of eight vessel from TMT for a total consideration of $345,237,520, consisting of 12,537,645 shares of common stock of Star Bulk and cash;
 
WHEREAS, the effectiveness of the Vessel Acquisition Agreements being made specifically contingent upon this Agreement and Plan of Merger being approved by Star Maritime and Star Maritime’s shareholders and the Merger being effected;
 
WHEREAS, the boards of directors of each of Star Maritime and Star Bulk believe it is in the best interests of Star Maritime and its shareholders on the one hand and Star Bulk and Star Maritime, Star Bulk’s 100% parent, on the other hand, that Star Maritime enter into a business combination through the merger of Star Maritime with and into Star Bulk, with Star Bulk being the survivor of the merger (the “Merger”) and, in furtherance thereof, have approved the Merger;
 
WHEREAS, pursuant to the Merger, among other things, each of the issued and outstanding common shares of Star Maritime (the “Star Maritime Shares”) shall be converted into the right to receive common shares of Star Bulk, par value $0.01 per share (the “Star Bulk Shares”) and each outstanding warrant of Star Maritime (the “Star Maritime Warrants” will be assumed by Star Bulk with the same terms and restrictions except that each will be exercisable for common stock of Star Bulk (the “Star Bulk Warrants”);
 
WHEREAS, the parties intend that the Merger shall constitute a plan of reorganization pursuant to Section 368 of the Code (as defined below);
 

 
WHEREAS, Star Maritime and Star Bulk desire to make certain representations, warranties, covenants and other agreements in connection with the Merger.
 
NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of the foregoing premises and the representations, warranties, covenants and agreements contained herein, and for other good and valuable consideration, the parties hereto, intending to be legally bound hereby, agree as follows:
 

Article I.
 
DEFINITIONS
 
1.1
Definitions.
 
Except as otherwise specified herein, the following terms, when used in this Agreement, have the respective meanings set forth below:
 
Action” means any claim, action, suit, arbitration, inquiry, proceeding or investigation by or before any Governmental Authority.
 
Affiliate” means, with respect to any Person, any other Person directly or indirectly Controlling, Controlled by or under common Control with such other Person.
 
Business Day” means any day that is not a Saturday, a Sunday or other day on which banks are required or authorized by Law to be closed in the City of New York.
 
Code” means the United States Internal Revenue Code of 1986.
 
Control” means, as to any Person, the power to direct or cause the direction of the management and policies of such Person, whether through the ownership of voting securities, by contract or otherwise. The terms “Controlled” and “Controlling” shall have a correlative meaning.
 
Dollar” or “$” means the United States Dollar.
 
ERISA” means the United States Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974, and the rules and regulations promulgated thereunder.
 
Exchange Act” shall mean the United States Securities Exchange Act of 1934.
 
Exchange Ratio” means 1.0.
 
GAAP” means United States generally accepted accounting principles as in effect, from time to time, consistently applied.
 

 
Governmental Authority” means any United States (federal, state or local) or foreign government, governmental, regulatory or administrative authority, agency or commission or any court, tribunal, or judicial or arbitral body.
 
Knowledge of Star Bulk” or “Knowledge” with respect to Star Bulk means the knowledge of any officer or director of Star Bulk.
 
“Knowledge of Star Maritime” or “Knowledge” with respect to Star Maritime means the knowledge of any officer or director of Star Maritime.
 
Law” means any United States (federal, state or local) or foreign statute, law, ordinance, regulation, rule, code, order, judgment, injunction or decree.
 
Lien” means, with respect to any property or asset, any mortgage, lien, pledge, charge, security interest or encumbrance of any kind, whether voluntarily incurred or arising by operation of Law or otherwise, in respect of such property or asset.
 
Material Adverse Effect” means with respect to Star Bulk or Star Maritime, as applicable, a material adverse effect on the business, operations, properties, assets, condition (financial or otherwise) or results of operations of it and its subsidiaries taken as a whole, or on its ability to consummate the transactions contemplated hereby except (i) any effect arising from this Agreement or the transactions contemplated hereby, (ii) any effect applicable generally to the industries in which Star Bulk and the Subsidiaries operate and (iii) general economic or financial effects.
 
Order” means any order, writ, judgment, injunction, decree, stipulation, determination or award entered by or with any Governmental Authority.
 
“Per Share Merger Consideration” means for each share of common stock of Star Maritime, the right to receive consideration equal to one (1) fully paid and nonassessable Star Bulk Share.
 
Person” means any natural person, general or limited partnership, corporation, limited liability company, firm, association, trust or other legal entity or organization, including a government or political subdivision or an agency or instrumentality thereof.
 
RMI” means Republic of the Marshall Islands.
 
SEC” means the United States Securities and Exchange Commission.
 
Securities Act” shall mean the Securities Act of 1933.
 
Subsidiaries” means Star Alpha Inc., Star Beta Inc., Star Gamma Inc., Star Delta Inc., Star Epsilon Inc., Star Zita Inc., Star Theta Inc. and Star Iota Inc., each of which is a "Subsidiary" and all of which are Subsidiaries of Star Bulk. Each subsidiary is a corporation organized under the laws of the RMI.
 

 
Tax” or “Taxes” means all United States (federal, state or local) or foreign income, excise, gross receipts, ad valorem, sales, use, employment, franchise, profits, gains, property, transfer, use, payroll, intangibles or other taxes, fees, stamp taxes, duties, charges, levies or assessments of any kind whatsoever (whether payable directly or by withholding), together with any interest and any penalties, additions to tax or additional amounts imposed by any Tax authority with respect thereto.
 
Tax Returns” means all returns and reports (including elections, declarations, disclosures, schedules, estimates and information returns) required to be supplied to a Tax authority relating to Taxes.
 
Trademarks” means all of those trade names, trademarks, service marks, jingles, slogans, logos, trademark and service mark registrations and trademark and service mark applications owned, used, held for use, licensed by or leased by Star Bulk or the Subsidiaries and the goodwill appurtenant thereto.
 
1.2
Other Defined Terms.
 
Except as otherwise specified herein, the following terms have the respective meanings as defined in the Sections set forth below:
 
Term
Section
   
Agreement
Preamble
BCA
2.1
Certificate and Certificates
2.6
Closing and Closing Date
2.2
Contracts
3.5(b)
DGCL
2.1
Effective Time
2.2
Enforceability Exception
3.4(a)
Environmental Laws
3.8(c)
Exchange Act Listing
6.5
Exchange Agent
2.9(a)
Indemnified Party
9.3(a)
Indemnifying Party
9.3(a)
Initial Shares
Recitals
Loss
9.2(a)
Master Agreement
Recitals
Merger
Recitals
Merger Certificate
2.2
MOAs
Recitals
 

 
Notice of Claim
9.3(a)
Proxy Statement
6.2
Redemption Shares
2.7
Star Bulk
Preamble
Star Bulk Acquisition Transaction
5.2(a)
Star Bulk Financial Statement
3.13
Star Bulk Registration Statement
6.2
Star Bulk Shares
Recitals
Star Bulk Warrants
Recitals
Star Maritime
Preamble
Star Maritime Acquisition Transaction
5.2(b)
Star Maritime Shares
Recitals
Star Maritime Warrants
Recitals
Star Maritime Contracts
4.5
Star Maritime Directors
6.4
Star Maritime Financial Statements
4.13
Star Maritime Permits
4.9
Star Maritime Special Meeting
3.10
Star Maritime Stockholders' Approval
6.4
Star Maritime's SEC Reports
4.14
Stock Exchange Listing
6.5
Supplemental Agreement
Recitals
Surviving Corporation
2.1
Vessel Acquisition Agreements
Recitals
Vessels
3.9(b)(2)
 
1.3
Rules of Construction.
 
Unless the context otherwise requires:
 
(a)    a term has the meaning assigned to it;
 
(b)    an accounting term not otherwise defined has the meaning assigned to it in accordance with GAAP;
 
(c)    “or” is not exclusive;
 
(d)    “including” means including without limitation;
 
(e)    words in the singular include the plural and words in the plural include the singular; and
 
(f)    any agreement, instrument or statute defined or referred to herein or in any instrument or certificate delivered in connection herewith means such agreement, instrument or statute as from time to time amended, modified or supplemented (as provided in such agreements) and includes (in the case of agreements or instruments) references to all attachments thereto and instruments incorporated therein; references to a Person are also to its permitted successors and assigns.
 

 
Article II.
 
THE MERGER
 
2.1
The Merger.
 
Upon the terms and conditions set forth in this Agreement, and in accordance with the applicable provisions of the Marshall Islands Business Corporation Act (the “BCA”) and the Delaware General Corporation Law (the “DGCL”), Star Maritime shall be merged with and into Star Bulk at the Effective Time. At the Effective Time, the separate corporate existence of Star Maritime shall cease, and Star Bulk shall continue as the surviving corporation. The surviving corporation in the Merger is sometimes referred to as the “Surviving Corporation.”
 
2.2
Closing; Effective Time.
 
The closing of the Merger (the “Closing”) shall take place at 10:00 a.m. Eastern Time at the offices of Seward & Kissel LLP, One Battery Park Plaza, New York, New York 10004, on the first Business Day following the date on which the last of the conditions set forth in Article VII hereof is fulfilled or waived, or at such other time and place as Star Maritime and Star Bulk shall agree (the date on which the closing occurs being the “Closing Date”). On the Closing Date, the parties shall cause the Merger to be consummated by filing a Certificate of Merger or like instrument (the “Merger Certificate”) with the Registrar of Corporations of the Republic of the Marshall Islands, in accordance with the applicable provisions of the BCA (the time of acceptance by the Registrar of Corporations of such filing being referred to herein as the “Effective Time”) and with the Secretary of State of the State of Delaware, in accordance with the applicable provisions of the DGCL.
 
2.3
Effect of the Merger.
 
At the Effective Time, the effect of the Merger shall be as provided in the applicable provisions of the BCA and the DGCL. Without limiting the generality of the foregoing, at the Effective Time, all the property, rights, privileges, powers and franchises of Star Maritime shall vest in the Surviving Corporation, and all debts, liabilities and duties of Star Maritime shall become the debts, liabilities and duties of the Surviving Corporation.
 
2.4
Articles of Incorporation; By-laws. 
 
Prior to the filing of the Star Bulk Registration Statement, Star Bulk shall amend its Articles of Incorporation and By-laws on terms reasonably satisfactory to Star Maritime. At the Effective Time, these amended Articles of Incorporation and By-laws shall be the Articles of Incorporation and By-laws of the Surviving Corporation.
 

 
2.5
Directors and Officers.
 
The directors of the Surviving Corporation immediately after the Effective Time shall be the directors set forth in Schedule 2.5, each to hold the office of director of the Surviving Corporation in accordance with the provisions of the applicable laws of the Republic of the Marshall Islands and the Articles of Incorporation and By-laws of the Surviving Corporation (as amended pursuant to Section 2.4 above) until their successors are duly qualified and elected. The officers of the Surviving Corporation immediately after the Effective Time shall be such officers as are appointed by the Board of Directors of Star Bulk after the date hereof, each to hold office in accordance with the provisions of the By-laws of the Surviving Corporation (as amended pursuant to Section 2.4 above).
 
2.6
Conversion of Star Maritime Capital Stock.
 
Subject to Sections 2.7 and 2.9(e), each share of Star Maritime common stock issued and outstanding immediately prior to the Effective Time shall be converted into the right to receive, at the election of the holder thereof, the Per Share Merger Consideration. At the Effective Time, all Star Maritime Shares converted as set forth above shall no longer be outstanding and shall automatically be canceled and shall cease to exist, and each holder of a certificate or certificates that immediately prior to the Effective Time represented any such Star Maritime Shares (the “Certificates” and each, a “Certificate”) shall cease to have any rights with respect thereto, except the right to receive the Per Share Merger Consideration and certain dividends or other distributions in accordance with Section 2.9(c) upon the surrender of such Certificate, in accordance with Section 2.9(b). Each Star Maritime Warrant issued and outstanding immediately prior to the Effective Time shall be convertible into a Star Bulk Warrants and shall be convertible into Star Bulk Shares as described in Section 6.6 of this Agreement. Schedule 2.6 lists, as of the Effective Time, the number of Star Bulk Shares which shall be issued to any Star Maritime security holder pursuant to this Section 2.6 and Section 6.6 hereof, assuming that all outstanding Star Maritime Shares are exchanged for, or converted to, Star Bulk Shares as contemplated by this Agreement. Each share of Star Bulk owned by Star Maritime at the time of the Merger shall be cancelled.
 
2.7
Redemption Rights. 
 
Notwithstanding any other provisions of this Agreement to the contrary, if the Merger is approved by the shareholders of Star Maritime, Star Maritime Shares that are outstanding immediately prior to the Closing and which are held by Star Maritime stockholders who shall have voted against the Merger and who shall have demanded properly, in writing, redemption of such shares in accordance with the procedures set forth in the Proxy Statement (collectively, the “Redemption Shares”) shall not be converted into or represent the right to receive the Per Share Merger Consideration. Such Star Maritime stockholders shall be entitled to receive for each Redemption Share held by them, payment of $10.00 per share, which amount represents $9.80 per share plus their pro rata share of any accrued on the escrow account (net of taxes payable) not previously distributed by Star Maritime and $.020 per share plus interest thereon (net of taxes payable) of contingent underwriting compensation which the underwriters of Star Maritime’s initial public offering have agreed to forfeit to pay redeeming shareholders, calculated as of two days prior to the Closing Date. Star Maritime Shares held by Star Maritime stockholders who failed to properly demand redemption of their Star Maritime Shares shall thereupon be deemed to have converted into and to become exchangeable of the right to receive, without any interest thereon, the Per Share Merger Consideration, upon surrender, in the manner provided in Section 2.6 above, of the Certificate or Certificates that formerly evidenced such shares of Star Maritime Shares. Any payments required to be made to the holders of any Redemption Shares shall be funded by Star Bulk.
 

 
2.8
Anti-Dilution Provisions. 
 
In the event Star Bulk changes (or establishes a record date for changing) the number of Star Bulk Shares issued and outstanding prior to the Effective Time as a result of a stock split, stock dividend, recapitalization, subdivision, reclassification, combination, exchange of shares or similar transaction with respect to the outstanding Star Bulk Shares and the record date therefor shall be prior to the Effective Time, the Exchange Ratio and the Per Share Merger Consideration shall be proportionately adjusted to reflect such stock split, stock dividend, recapitalization, subdivision, reclassification, combination, exchange of shares or similar transaction.
 
2.9
Surrender of Certificates.
 
(a)    Exchange Agent. As of the Effective Time, Star Bulk shall deposit with such bank or trust company as may be designated by Star Bulk and reasonably acceptable to Star Maritime (the “Exchange Agent”), for the benefit of the holders of shares of Star Maritime Capital Stock, for exchange in accordance with this Section 2.9, through the Exchange Agent, the Star Bulk Shares issuable pursuant to Section 2.6 in exchange for outstanding shares of Star Maritime Shares. At the time of such deposit, Star Bulk shall irrevocably instruct the Exchange Agent to deliver the Star Bulk Shares to Star Maritime’s stockholders after the Effective Time in accordance with the procedures set forth in this Section 2.9, subject to Sections 2.9(f) and (g).
 
(b)    Exchange Procedures. As soon as reasonably practicable after the Effective Time, the Exchange Agent shall mail to each holder of record of a Certificate whose shares were converted into the right to receive the applicable Per Share Merger Consideration pursuant to Section 2.6, a letter of transmittal (in form and substance satisfactory to Star Bulk and Star Maritime), with instructions for use in surrendering the Certificates in exchange for the applicable Per Share Merger Consideration with respect thereto. Upon surrender of a Certificate for cancellation to the Exchange Agent, together with such letter of transmittal, duly completed and validly executed, and such other documents as may reasonably be required by the Exchange Agent, the holder of such Certificate shall be entitled to receive in exchange therefor that number of whole Star Bulk Shares in accordance with Section 2.9(e), together with certain dividends or other distributions in accordance with Section 2.9(c), and the Certificate so surrendered shall forthwith be canceled. In the event of a transfer of ownership of Star Maritime Shares that is not registered in the transfer records of Star Maritime, a certificate evidencing the proper number of Star Bulk Shares may be issued in exchange therefor to a person other than the person in whose name the Certificate so surrendered is registered if such Certificate shall be properly endorsed or otherwise be in proper form for transfer and the person requesting such issuance shall pay any transfer or other taxes required by reason of the issuance of Star Bulk Shares to a person other than the registered holder of such Certificate or establish to the satisfaction of Star Bulk that such tax has been paid or is not applicable. Until surrendered as contemplated by this Section 2.9(b), each Certificate shall be deemed at any time after the Effective Time to represent only the right to receive upon such surrender the Per Share Merger Consideration that the holder thereof has the right to receive pursuant to the provisions of Section 2.6, plus certain dividends or other distributions in accordance with Section 2.9(c).
 

 
(c)    Distributions with Respect to Unexchanged Shares. No dividends or other distributions declared or made with respect to Star Bulk Shares with a record date after the Effective Time shall be paid to the holder of any unsurrendered Certificate with respect to Star Bulk Shares represented thereby, if any, and all such dividends and other distributions shall be paid by Star Bulk to the Exchange Agent, until the surrender of such Certificate in accordance with this Article II. Subject to the effect of applicable escheat or similar laws, following surrender of any such Certificate there shall be paid to the holder of whole Star Bulk Shares issued in exchange therefor, without interest, (i) at the time of such surrender, the amount of dividends or other distributions with a record date after the Effective Time theretofore paid with respect to such whole Star Bulk Shares and (ii) at the appropriate payment date, the amount of dividends or other distributions with a record date after the Effective Time but prior to such surrender and with a payment date subsequent to such surrender payable with respect to such whole Star Bulk Shares.
 
(d)    No Further Ownership Rights in Star Maritime Shares. All certificates evidencing Star Bulk Shares issued (including any dividends or other distributions paid pursuant to Section 2.9(c)) shall be deemed to have been issued and paid in full satisfaction of all rights pertaining to the shares of Star Maritime Shares formerly represented by such Certificates. At the close of business on the day on which the Effective Time occurs, the stock transfer books of Star Maritime shall be closed, and there shall be no further registration of transfers on the stock transfer books of the Surviving Corporation of the shares of Star Maritime Shares that were outstanding immediately prior to the Effective Time. If, after the Effective Time, Certificates are presented to the Surviving Corporation or the Exchange Agent for transfer or any other reason, they shall be canceled and exchanged as provided in this Article II.
 

 
(e)    Fractional Shares. No fractional shares of Star Bulk common stock shall be issued in the Merger. The aggregate Per Share Merger Consideration to be issued to the holder of a Certificate previously evidencing Star Maritime Shares shall be rounded up to the nearest whole share of Star Bulk common stock.
 
(f)    Termination of Exchange of Star Bulk Shares. Any portion of the Star Bulk Shares (and any dividends or distributions thereon) that remain undistributed to the holders of the Certificates for six months after the Effective Time shall be delivered to Star Bulk, upon demand, and any holders of the Certificates who have not theretofore complied with this Article II shall thereafter look only to Star Bulk for, and, subject to Section 2.9(g), Star Bulk shall remain liable for payment of their claim for the Per Share Merger Consideration, certain dividends and other distributions in accordance with Section 2.9(c).
 
(g)    No Liability. Notwithstanding anything to the contrary in this Section 2.9, none of the Exchange Agent, the Surviving Corporation or any party to this Agreement shall be liable to a holder of Star Bulk Shares or Star Maritime Shares for any amount properly paid to a public official pursuant to any applicable abandoned property, escheat or similar law.
 
(h)    Lost, Stolen or Destroyed Company Certificate. In the event any Certificates shall have been lost, stolen or destroyed, the Exchange Agent shall issue in exchange for such lost, stolen or destroyed Certificate, upon the making of an affidavit and indemnity of that fact by the holder thereof in a form that is reasonably acceptable to the Exchange Agent, the number of Star Bulk Shares as required pursuant to Section 2.6; provided, however, that Star Bulk may, in its reasonably commercial discretion and as a condition precedent to the issuance thereof, require the owner of such lost, stolen or destroyed Certificates to deliver a bond in such sum as it may reasonably direct against any claim that may be made against Star Bulk or the Exchange Agent with respect to the Certificates alleged to have been lost, stolen or destroyed.
 
2.10 
Warrants
 
As of the Effective Time, Star Bulk shall deposit with the Exchange Agent, for the benefit of the holders of Star Maritime Warrants that have been exchanged into Star Bulk Warrants in accordance with Section 6.6 hereof, 20,000,000 shares of Star Bulk Shares issuable upon exercise of such Star Bulk Warrants.
 
2.11
Redemption Shares After Payment of Fair Value.
 
Redemption Shares, if any, after payments of fair value in respect thereto have been made to Redemption Star Maritime stockholders pursuant to the DGCL, shall be cancelled.
 

 
2.12
Tax and Accounting Consequences.
 
It is intended by the parties hereto that the Merger shall constitute a reorganization within the meaning of Section 368 of the Code. Each party has consulted with, and is relying upon, its tax advisors and accountants with respect to the tax and accounting consequences of the Merger.
 
Article III.
 
REPRESENTATIONS AND WARRANTIES
OF STAR BULK
 
Star Bulk hereby represents and warrants to Star Maritime as follows (subject in each case to such exceptions as are set forth or cross-referenced in the attached Schedules corresponding to the Section of the representation or warranty to which such exceptions relate):
 
3.1
Organization and Qualification.
 
(a)    Star Bulk has been duly organized and is validly existing as a corporation in good standing under the laws of the Republic of the Marshall Islands, with power and authority (corporate and other) to own its properties and conduct its business as currently conducted. Star Bulk has been duly qualified as a foreign corporation for the transaction of business and is in good standing under the laws of each jurisdiction set forth in the Schedule3.1 and to Star Bulk’s Knowledge, such jurisdictions are the only ones in which it owns or leases properties, or conducts any business, so as to require such qualification, other than those jurisdictions where the failure to be so qualified or in good standing would not have a Material Adverse Effect on Star Bulk and the Subsidiaries.
 
(b)    Each of the Subsidiaries has been duly organized and is validly existing as a corporation under the laws of the Republic of the Marshall Islands, with power and authority (corporate and other) to own its properties and conduct its business as currently conducted. All the outstanding shares of capital stock of each of the Subsidiaries have been duly authorized and validly issued, are fully-paid and non-assessable, and are owned by Star Bulk, free and clear of all Liens.
 
(c)    The copies of the respective Articles of Incorporation and By-laws of Star Bulk and each of the Subsidiaries, as amended to date and delivered to Star Maritime, are true and complete copies of these documents as now in effect. The minute books of Star Bulk and the Subsidiaries are accurate in all material respects.
 

 
3.2
Subsidiaries.
 
Other than the Subsidiaries, Star Bulk does not hold any equity interest in any other Person. Star Bulk owns all of the issued and outstanding shares of stock of the Subsidiaries, free and clear of any Liens.
 
3.3
Capitalization.
 
(a)    As of immediately prior to the Closing, the authorized capital stock of Star Bulk shall consist solely of 100,000,000 common shares, $0.01 par value and 25,000,000 preferred shares, $0.01 par value, of which 500 common shares and no preferred shares will be issued and outstanding.
 
(b)    The Star Bulk Shares to be issued upon effectiveness of the Merger and upon exercise of the Star Bulk Warrants, when issued in accordance with the terms of this Agreement, shall be duly authorized, validly issued, fully paid and non-assessable and free of all Liens.
 
3.4
Authority; Non-Contravention; Approvals.
 
(a)    Star Bulk has full corporate power and authority, to enter into this Agreement and to consummate the transactions contemplated hereby. Star Bulk’s execution and delivery of this Agreement, and its consummation of the transactions contemplated hereby, have been duly authorized by its board of directors and no other corporate proceedings on its part are necessary to authorize its execution and delivery of this Agreement and its consummation of the transactions contemplated hereby. This Agreement has been duly and validly executed and delivered by Star Bulk and its parent, and constitutes its and their valid and binding agreement, enforceable against them in accordance with its terms, except that such enforcement may be subject to (i) bankruptcy, insolvency, reorganization, moratorium or other similar laws affecting or relating to enforcement of creditors’ rights generally and (ii) general equitable principles ((i) and (ii) the “Enforceability Exception”).
 
(b)    All material consents, approvals, authorizations, orders, licenses, registrations, clearances and qualifications of or with any Governmental Authority having jurisdiction over Star Bulk or the Subsidiaries or any of their properties required for the execution and delivery by Star Bulk of this Agreement to be duly and validly authorized have been obtained or made and are in full force and effect.
 

 
(c)    Star Bulk’s execution and delivery of this Agreement does not, and its consummation of the transactions contemplated herein will not violate, conflict with or result in a breach of any provision of, or constitute any default (or an event which, with notice or lapse of time or both, would constitute an event of default) under, or result in the termination of, or accelerate the performance required by, or result in a right of termination or acceleration under, or result in the creation of any Lien upon any of its properties or assets under any of the terms, conditions or provisions of (i) the Certificate of Incorporation or By-laws of Star Bulk or any of the Subsidiaries, (ii) Approval, any Law or Order, injunction, writ, permit or license of any Governmental Authority applicable to it or any of its properties or assets, or (iii) any note, bond, mortgage, indenture, deed of trust, license, franchise, permit, concession, contract, lease or other instrument, obligation or agreement of any kind to which it is now a party or by which it or any of its properties or assets may be bound, excluding from the foregoing clauses (ii) and (iii), such violations, conflicts, breaches, defaults, terminations, accelerations or creations of liens, security interests, charges or encumbrances that do not, in the aggregate, have a Material Adverse Effect on Star Bulk and the Subsidiaries taken as a whole.
 
3.5
Contracts; No Default.
 
(a)    Schedule 3.5(a) contains a true and complete list of all contracts, agreements, commitments and other instruments (whether oral or written) to which Star Bulk or any of the Subsidiaries is a party that (i) involve a receipt or an expenditure by Star Bulk or any of the Subsidiaries or require the performance of services or delivery of goods to, by, through, on behalf of or for the benefit of Star Bulk or any of the Subsidiaries, which in each case, relates to a contract, agreement, commitment or instrument that either (A) requires payments or receipts in excess of $50,000 per year or (B) is not terminable by Star Bulk or any of the Subsidiaries on notice of thirty (30) days or less without penalty or Star Bulk or any of the Subsidiaries being liable for damages of $50,000 or more, or (ii) involve an obligation for the performance of services or delivery of goods by Star Bulk or any of the Subsidiaries that cannot, or in reasonable probability will not, be performed within one year from the date hereof.
 
(b)    All of the contracts, agreements, commitments and other instruments described in Schedule 3.5(a) (individually, a “Contract” and collectively, the “Contracts”) are valid and binding upon Star Bulk or the Subsidiaries, as applicable, and to the Knowledge of Star Bulk, the other parties thereto, and are in full force and effect and enforceable in accordance with their terms, subject to the Enforceability Exception, and neither Star Bulk nor the Subsidiaries, nor to the Knowledge of Star Bulk, any other party to any Contract, has materially breached any provision of, nor has any event occurred which, with the lapse of time or action by a third party, could result in a material default under, the terms thereof.
 

 
3.6
Litigation.
 
There is no (i) claim, action, suit or proceeding pending or, to Star Bulk’s Knowledge, threatened against or directly relating to Star Bulk before any Governmental Authority, or (ii) outstanding Order, or application, request or motion therefor, of any Governmental Authority in a proceeding to which Star Bulk or any of its assets was or is a party except, in the case of clauses (i) and (ii) above, such as would not, individually or in the aggregate, either materially impair or preclude Star Bulk’s ability to consummate the Merger or the other transactions contemplated hereby or have a Material Adverse Effect on Star Bulk.
 
3.7
Taxes.
 
(a)    Star Bulk and the Subsidiaries have duly filed with the appropriate Governmental Authorities all material franchise, income and all other material Tax Returns other than Tax Returns the failure to file of which would have no Material Adverse Effect on Star Bulk or the Subsidiaries. All such Tax Returns were, when filed, and are accurate and complete in all material respects and were prepared in conformity with applicable Laws. Star Bulk and the Subsidiaries have paid or will pay in full or have adequately reserved against all Taxes otherwise assessed against it through the Closing Date. Neither Star Bulk nor any Subsidiary is a party to any pending action or proceeding by any Governmental Authority for the assessment of any Tax, and no claim for assessment or collection of any Tax has been asserted in writing against Star Bulk of any of the Subsidiaries that has not been paid. There are no Liens for Taxes upon the assets of Star Bulk or any of the Subsidiaries (other than Liens for Taxes not yet due and payable). There is no valid basis, to the Knowledge of Star Bulk, for any assessment, deficiency, notice, 30-day letter or similar intention to assess any Tax to be issued to Star Bulk or any of the Subsidiaries by any Governmental Authority.
 
(b)    No stamp or other issuance or transfer taxes or duties and no capital gains, income, withholding or other Taxes are payable by or on behalf of Star Maritime to the Marshall Islands or any political subdivision or Taxing Authority thereof or therein in connection with the issuance of the Star Bulk Shares to the Star Maritime stockholders, the issuance of the Star Bulk Warrants or the delivery by the Star Maritime stockholders of the Star Maritime Shares or the delivery of the Star Maritime Warrants by the holders thereof.
 
3.8
No Violation of Law.
 
(a)    Neither Star Bulk nor any Subsidiary is in violation of or has been given notice or been charged with any violation of, any Law or Order (including, without limitation, any applicable environmental law, ordinance or regulation) of any Governmental Authority, except for violations which, in the aggregate, do not have, and would not reasonably be expected to have, a Material Adverse Effect on Star Bulk. Neither Star Bulk nor any Subsidiary has received any written notice that any investigation or review with respect to it by any Governmental Authority is pending or threatened, other than, in each case, those the outcome of which, as far as reasonably can be foreseen, would not reasonably be expected to have a Material Adverse Effect on Star Bulk.
 

 
(b)    Each of Star Bulk and the Subsidiaries owns, possesses or has obtained, all licenses, permits, certificates, consents, orders, approvals and other authorizations from, and has made all declarations and filings with, all Governmental Authorities, all self-regulatory organizations and all courts and other tribunals, necessary to own or lease, as the case may be, and to operate its properties and to carry on its business as conducted as of the date hereof, other than such licenses, permits, certificates, consents, orders, approvals, other authorizations, declarations and filings which individually or in the aggregate are not material to Star Bulk and the Subsidiaries taken as a whole, and neither Star Bulk nor any such Subsidiary has received any actual notice of any proceeding relating to revocation or modification of any such license, permit, certificate, consent, order, approval or other authorization, and each of Star Bulk and the Subsidiaries is in compliance with all Laws relating to the conduct of its business as conducted as of the date hereof other than any failure to so comply that would not have a Material Adverse Effect on Star Bulk.
 
(c)    Star Bulk and the Subsidiaries (i) are in compliance with any and all applicable foreign, federal, provincial, state and local Laws, including any applicable regulations and standards adopted by the International Maritime Organization, relating to the protection of human health and safety, the environment or hazardous or toxic substances or wastes, petroleum pollutants or contaminants (“Environmental Laws”), (ii) have received all permits, licenses, other approvals, authorizations and certificates of financial responsibility required of them under applicable Environmental Laws to conduct their respective businesses and (iii) are in compliance with all terms and conditions of any such permit, license or approval, except where such noncompliance with Environmental Laws, failure to receive required permits, licenses or other approvals or failure to comply with the terms and conditions of such permits, licenses or approvals would not, have a Material Adverse Effect on Star Bulk.
 
(d)    None of the transactions contemplated herein will violate any Foreign Assets Control Regulations of the United States contained in Title 31, Code of Federal Regulations, Parts 500, 505, 515 and 535.
 
3.9
Properties.
 
Star Bulk and the Subsidiaries have good and marketable title to all of the assets and properties which they purport to own as reflected on the most recent balance sheet comprising a portion of the Star Bulk Financial Statement, or thereafter acquired (except assets and properties sold or otherwise disposed of since the date of such balance sheet in the ordinary course of business). Star Bulk and the Subsidiaries have a valid leasehold interest in all properties of which it is the lessee and each such lease is valid, binding and enforceable against it, and, to the Knowledge of Star Bulk, the other parties thereto in accordance with its terms, subject to the Enforceability Exception. Neither Star Bulk, the Subsidiaries nor, to Star Bulk’s Knowledge, the other parties thereto are in default in the performance of any material provision thereunder. Neither the whole nor any material portion of the assets of Star Bulk or the Subsidiaries is subject to any Order to be sold or is being condemned, expropriated or otherwise taken by any public authority with or without payment of compensation therefor, nor, to Star Bulk’s Knowledge, has any such condemnation, expropriation or taking been proposed. None of the material assets of Star Bulk or the Subsidiaries is subject to any restriction which would have a Material Adverse Effect on Star Bulk.
 

 
3.10
Proxy Statement.
 
None of the information to be supplied by Star Bulk for inclusion in the Proxy Statement, or in any amendments or supplements thereto, to be distributed to the stockholders of Star Maritime in connection with the meeting of such stockholders (the “Star Maritime Special Meeting”) at the time of the mailing of the Proxy Statement and at the time of the Star Maritime Special Meeting contain any untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state any material fact required to be stated therein or necessary in order to make the statements therein, in light of the circumstances under which they are made, not misleading.
 
3.11
Labor Matters.
 
Neither Star Bulk nor any Subsidiary is a party to any union contract or other collective bargaining agreement. Star Bulk and the Subsidiaries are in compliance in all material respects with all applicable Laws respecting employment and employment practices, terms and conditions of employment and wages and hours, and Star Bulk and the Subsidiaries are not engaged in any unfair labor practice. There is no labor strike, slowdown or stoppage pending (or, to the Knowledge of Star Bulk, any labor strike or stoppage threatened) against or affecting Star Bulk or the Subsidiaries. No petition for certification has been filed and is pending before any Governmental Authority with respect to any employees of Star Bulk or the Subsidiaries who are not currently organized.
 
3.12
Employees.
 
To Star Bulk’s knowledge, no key employee or group of employees has any plans to terminate employment with Star Bulk or any of the Subsidiaries.
 
3.13
Financial Statements.
 
Star Bulk has provided Star Maritime with a draft of the audited consolidated balance sheet dated February 5, 2007 (the “Star Bulk Financial Statement”). The Star Bulk Financial Statement presents fairly, in all material respects, the consolidated financial position and results of operations of Star Bulk and the Subsidiaries as of the dates, period and year indicated, prepared in accordance with GAAP, and to the Knowledge of Star Bulk, in accordance with Regulation S-X, promulgated by the SEC, and, in particular, Rules 1-02 and 3-05 thereunder. Without limiting the generality of the foregoing, (i) as of the date of the consolidated balance sheet comprising a portion of the Star Bulk Financial Statement, there was no material debt, liability or obligation of any nature not reflected or reserved against in the Star Bulk Financial Statement or in the notes thereto required to be so reflected or reserved in accordance with GAAP, and (ii) there are no assets of Star Bulk or the Subsidiaries, the value of which (in the reasonable judgment of Star Bulk) is materially overstated in the Star Bulk Financial Statement. Except as incurred in the ordinary course of business since December 31, 2006, Star Bulk has no known material contingent liabilities (including liabilities for Taxes) other than as contemplated hereunder or in connection herewith. Star Bulk is not a party to any contract or agreement for the forward purchase or sale of any foreign currency and has not invested in any “derivatives.” There will not be any material adverse change to Star Bulk’s Financial Statement.
 

 
3.14
Absence of Certain Changes or Events.
 
Except as set forth in Schedule 3.14 or in connection with this Agreement and the transactions contemplated hereby, since December 31, 2006 there has not been:
 
(a)    any material adverse change in the financial condition, operations, properties, assets, liabilities or business of Star Bulk;
 
(b)    any material damage, destruction or loss of any material properties of Star Bulk and the Subsidiaries, whether or not covered by insurance, which would have a Material Adverse Effect on Star Bulk;
 
(c)    any material change in the manner in which the business of the Company has been conducted, which would have a Material Adverse Effect on Star Bulk;
 
(d)    any material change in the treatment and protection of trade secrets or other confidential information of Star Bulk and the Subsidiaries, which would have a Material Adverse Effect on Star Bulk; and
 
(e)    any occurrence not included in paragraphs (a) through (d) of this Section 3.14 which has resulted, or which Star Bulk has reason to believe, could reasonably be expected to result, in a Material Adverse Effect on Star Bulk.
 
3.15
Dividends and Distributions.
 
All dividends and other distributions declared and payable on the shares of capital stock of the Subsidiaries may under the current Laws of the Republic of the Marshall Islands be paid in United States dollars and may be freely transferred out of the Marshall Islands and all such dividends and other distributions are not subject to withholding or other taxes under the current laws and regulations of the Republic of the Marshall Islands and are otherwise free and clear of any other Tax, withholding or deduction in, and without the necessity of obtaining any consents, approvals, authorizations, orders, licenses, registrations, clearances and qualifications of or with any Governmental Authority in, the Republic of the Marshall Islands.
 

 
3.16
Related Transactions.
 
No relationship, direct or indirect, exists between or among Star Bulk or either of the Subsidiaries on the one hand, and the directors, officers, shareholders, customers or suppliers of Star Bulk or either of the Subsidiaries on the other hand. Since the date of its incorporation, Star Bulk has not, directly or indirectly, including through any Subsidiary, extended or maintained credit, or arranged for the extension of credit, or renewed or amended any extension of credit, in the form of a personal loan to or for any of its directors or executive officers.
 
3.17
Investment Company.
 
Star Bulk is not an “investment company’ or an entity “controlled” by an “investment company”, as such terms are defined in the Investment Company Act of 1940.
 
3.18
Passive Foreign Investment Company.
 
To Star Bulk’s best Knowledge, it does not believe it is a Passive Foreign Investment Company (“PFIC”) within the meaning of Section 1296 of the Code, and does not believe it is likely to become a PFIC.
 
3.19
Insurance.
 
Star Bulk and each of the Subsidiaries are insured by insurers of recognized financial responsibility against such losses and risks and in such amounts as are customary and in accordance with standard industry practice in the businesses in which they are engaged. Neither Star Bulk nor any such Subsidiary has received any notice from any insurance company that any insurance policy has been canceled or that such insurance company intends to cancel any such policy. Neither Star Bulk nor any such Subsidiary has reason to believe that Star Bulk and each Subsidiary will not be able to renew its existing insurance coverage as and when such coverage expires or to obtain similar coverage from similar insurers as may be necessary to continue its business.
 
3.20
Disclosure Controls.
 
Star Bulk has established and maintains disclosure controls and procedures (as such term is defined in Rule 13a-15 under the Exchange Act), which (i) are designed to ensure that material information relating to Star Bulk, including the Subsidiaries, is made known to Star Bulk’s principal executive officer and its principal financial officer by others within those entities, particularly during the preparation of the Proxy Statement; (ii) have been evaluated for effectiveness as of the date of this Agreement; and (iii) are effective in all material respects to perform the functions for which they were established.
 

 
3.21
Absence of Material Weaknesses.
 
Based on the evaluation of its internal controls over financial reporting, Star Bulk is not aware of (i) any significant deficiency or material weakness in the design or operation of internal controls over financial reporting which are reasonably likely to adversely affect its ability to record, process, summarize and report financial information; or (ii) any fraud, whether or not material, that involves management or other employees who have a significant role in the internal controls over financial reporting.
 
3.22
Books, Records and Accounts.
 
Star Bulk’s books, records and accounts fairly and accurately reflect in all material respects transactions and dispositions of assets by Star Bulk and the Subsidiaries, and to the Knowledge of Star Bulk, the system of internal accounting controls of Star Bulk is sufficient to assure that: (a) transactions are executed in accordance with management’s authorization; (b) transactions are recorded as necessary to permit preparation of financial statements in conformity with GAAP, and to maintain accountability for assets; (c) access to assets is permitted only in accordance with management’s authorization; and (d) the recorded accountability for assets is compared with the existing assets at reasonable intervals and appropriate action is taken with respect to any differences.
 
3.23
Brokers and Finders.
 
Star Bulk has not employed any investment banker, broker, finder or intermediary in connection with the transactions contemplated by this Agreement which would be entitled to any investment banking, brokerage, finder’s or similar fee or commission in connection with this Agreement or the transactions contemplated hereby.
 
3.24
No Omissions or Untrue Statements.
 
No representation or warranty made by Star Bulk to Star Maritime in this Agreement or in any certificate of or Star Bulk officer required to be delivered to Star Maritime pursuant to the terms of this Agreement contains or will contain any untrue statement of a material fact, or omits or will omit to state a material fact necessary to make the statements contained herein or therein in light of the circumstances in which made not misleading as of the date hereof and as of the Closing Date.
 
Article IV.
 
REPRESENTATIONS AND WARRANTIES OF STAR MARITIME
 
Star Maritime hereby represents and warrants to Star Bulk as follows (subject in each case to such exceptions as are set forth or cross-referenced in the attached Schedules corresponding to the Section of the representation or warranty to which such exceptions relate):
 

 
4.1
Organization and Qualification.
 
Star Maritime is a corporation duly incorporated, validly existing and in good standing under the laws of the State of Delaware. Star Maritime has all requisite corporate power to carry on its business as it is now being conducted and is duly qualified to do business as a foreign corporation and is in good standing in all jurisdictions set forth in Schedule 4.1, and to Star Maritime’s Knowledge, such jurisdictions are the only ones in which the properties owned, leased or operated by Star Maritime or the nature of the business conducted by Star Maritime makes such qualification necessary, except where the failure to qualify (individually or in the aggregate) will not have any Material Adverse Effect on Star Maritime. The copies of the Certificate of Incorporation and By-laws of Star Maritime, as amended to date and delivered to Star Bulk, are true and complete copies of these documents as now in effect. The minute books of Star Maritime are accurate in all material respects.
 
4.2
Capitalization. 
 
The authorized capital stock of Star Maritime as of the date hereof consists of 100,000,000 shares of common stock, $0.0001 par value per share , of which 29,026,924 shares are issued and outstanding and 1,000,000 shares of preferred shares, $0.0001 par value, none of which are outstanding. In addition, there are authorized, issued and outstanding 20,000,000 Warrants (the “Star Maritime Warrants”) providing for the issuance, upon exercise, of a like number of shares of Star Maritime Common Stock. The Star Maritime Warrants are each exercisable at $8.00 per share and are each callable for redemption by Star Maritime upon the occurrence of certain events specified therein. All of the outstanding securities of Star Maritime are duly authorized, validly issued, fully paid and non-assessable, and were not issued in violation of the preemptive rights of any Person. All of the outstanding securities of Star Maritime, including the Star Maritime Shares , and the Star Maritime Warrants, were issued in compliance with all applicable securities laws. No shares of capital stock are held in the treasury of Star Maritime. Other than as stated in this Section 4.2, there are no outstanding subscriptions, options, warrants, calls or rights of any kind issued or granted by, or binding upon Star Maritime, to purchase or otherwise acquire any shares of capital stock of Star Maritime or other securities of Star Maritime. Except as stated in this Section 4.2, there are no outstanding securities convertible or exchangeable, actually or contingently, into shares of Star Maritime Common Stock or other securities of Star Maritime.
 
4.3
Subsidiaries. 
 
Star Maritime has one subsidiary, Star Bulk. Star Maritime owns all of the issued and outstanding shares of stock of Star Bulk, free and clear of any Liens does not hold any equity interest in any other Person (except indirectly the shares of the Subsidiaries through its ownership of Star Bulk) .
 

 
4.4
Authority; Non-Contravention; Approvals.
 
(a)    Star Maritime has full corporate power and authority to enter into this Agreement and, subject to the Star Maritime Stockholders’ Approval, to consummate the transactions contemplated hereby. Star Maritime’s execution and delivery of this Agreement, and its consummation of the transactions contemplated hereby, have been duly authorized by its board of directors and no other corporate proceedings on its part are necessary to authorize its execution and delivery of this Agreement and its consummation of the transactions contemplated hereby, except for the Star Maritime Stockholders’ Approval which will be solicited in accordance with Sections 6.2 and 6.4hereof. This Agreement has been duly and validly executed and delivered by Star Maritime, and constitutes its valid and binding agreement, enforceable against it in accordance with its terms, except that such enforcement may be subject to the Enforceability Exception.
 
(b)    Star Maritime’s execution and delivery of this Agreement does not, and its consummation of the transactions contemplated hereby will not, violate, conflict with or result in a breach of any provision of, or constitute a default (or an event which, with notice or lapse of time or both, would constitute a default) under, or result in the termination of, or accelerate the performance required by, or result in a right of termination or acceleration under, or result in the creation of any Lien upon any of its properties or assets under any of the terms, conditions or provisions of (i) its Certificate of Incorporation or By-laws, (ii) subject to obtaining the Star Maritime Stockholders’ Approval, any Law or Order, injunction, writ, permit or license of any Governmental Authority applicable to it or any of its properties or assets, or (iii) any note, bond, mortgage, indenture, deed of trust, license, franchise, permit, concession, contract, lease or other instrument, obligation or agreement of any kind to which it is now a party or by which it or any of its properties or assets may be bound, excluding from the foregoing clauses (ii) and (iii), such violations, conflicts, breaches, defaults, terminations, accelerations or creations of liens, security interests, charges or encumbrances that do not, in the aggregate, have a Material Adverse Effect on Star Maritime.
 
(c)    Except for the filing and clearance of preliminary proxy materials with the SEC pursuant to the Exchange Act, no declaration, filing or registration with, or notice to, or authorization, consent or approval of, any governmental or regulatory body or authority is necessary for Star Maritime’s execution and delivery of this Agreement or its consummation of the transactions contemplated hereby, other than such declarations, filings, registrations, notices, authorizations, consents or approvals which, if not made or obtained, as the case may be, would not, in the aggregate, have a Material Adverse Effect on Star Maritime.
 

 
4.5
Contracts Listed; No Default.
 
All material contracts, agreements, licenses, leases, easements, permits, rights of way, commitments and understandings, written or oral, connected with or relating in any respect to the present or future operations of Star Maritime are, with the exception of this Agreement and the transactions contemplated hereby, described in Star Maritime’s SEC Reports and listed as exhibits thereto (the “Star Maritime Contracts”). The Star Maritime Contracts are valid and binding upon Star Maritime, and to Star Maritime’s Knowledge, the other parties thereto, and are in full force and effect and enforceable in accordance with their terms, subject to the Enforceability Exception and neither Star Maritime, nor to Star Maritime’s Knowledge, any other party to any Star Maritime Contract, has materially breached any provision of, nor has any event occurred which, with the lapse of time or action by a third party, could result in a material default under, the terms thereof. To the Knowledge of Star Maritime, no stockholder of Star Maritime has received any payment in violation of law from any contracting party in connection with or as an inducement for causing Star Maritime to enter into any Star Maritime Contract.
 
4.6
Litigation.
 
There is no (i) claim, action, suit or proceeding pending or, to Star Maritime’s Knowledge, threatened against or directly relating to Star Maritime before any Governmental Authority, or (ii) outstanding Order, or application, request or motion therefor, of any Governmental Authority in a proceeding to which Star Maritime or any of its assets was or is a party except, in the case of clauses (i) and (ii) above, such as would not, individually or in the aggregate, either materially impair or preclude Star Maritime’s ability to consummate the Merger or the other transactions contemplated hereby or have a Material Adverse Effect on Star Maritime.
 
4.7
Taxes. 
 
Star Maritime has duly filed with the appropriate Governmental Authorities all Tax Returns required to be filed by it other than Tax Returns which the failure to file would have no Material Adverse Effect on Star Maritime. All such Tax Returns were, when filed, and are accurate and complete in all material respects and were prepared in conformity with applicable laws and regulations. Star Maritime has paid or will pay in full or has adequately reserved against all Taxes otherwise assessed against it through the Closing Date. Star Maritime is not a party to any pending action or proceeding by any Governmental Authority for the assessment of any Tax, and no claim for assessment or collection of any Tax has been asserted against Star Maritime that has not been paid. There are no Tax Liens upon the assets of Star Maritime (other than Liens for Taxes not yet due and payable). There is no valid basis, to Star Maritime’s Knowledge, for any assessment, deficiency, notice, 30-day letter or similar intention to assess any Tax to be issued to Star Maritime by any Governmental Authority.
 

 
4.8
Employee Plans. 
 
Star Maritime has no employee benefit plans as defined in Section 3(3) of ERISA nor any employment agreements.
 
4.9
No Violation of Law.
 
Star Maritime is not in violation of and has not been given notice or been charged with any violation of, any Law, or Order, (including, without limitation, any applicable environmental law, ordinance or regulation) of any Governmental Authority, except for violations which, in the aggregate, do not have, and would not reasonably be expected to have, a Material Adverse Effect on Star Maritime. Star Maritime has not received any written notice that any investigation or review with respect to it by any Governmental Authority is pending or threatened, other than, in each case, those the outcome of which, as far as reasonably can be foreseen, would not reasonably be expected to have a Material Adverse Effect on Star Maritime. Star Maritime has all permits, licenses, franchises, variances, exemptions, orders and other governmental authorizations, consents and approvals necessary to conduct its business as presently conducted, except for those, the absence of which, alone or in the aggregate, would not have a Material Adverse Effect on Star Maritime (collectively, the “Star Maritime Permits”). Star Maritime (a) has duly and timely filed all reports and other information required to be filed with any Governmental Authority in connection with the Star Maritime Permits, and (b) is not in violation of the terms of any of the Star Maritime Permits, except for such omissions or delays in filings, reports or violations which, alone or in the aggregate, would not have a Material Adverse Effect on Star Maritime.
 
4.10
Properties.
 
Star Maritime has good and marketable title to all of the assets and properties which it purports to own as reflected on the most recent balance sheet comprising a portion of the Star Maritime Financial Statements or thereafter acquired (except assets and properties sold or otherwise disposed of since the date of such balance sheet in the ordinary course of business). Star Maritime has a valid leasehold interest in all properties of which it is the lessee and each such lease is valid, binding and enforceable against Star Maritime, and, to the knowledge of Star Maritime, the other parties thereto in accordance with its terms, subject to the Enforceability Exception. Neither Star Maritime nor, to Star Maritime’s Knowledge, the other parties thereto are in default in the performance of any material provision thereunder. Neither the whole nor any material portion of the assets of Star Maritime is subject to any governmental decree or order to be sold or is being condemned, expropriated or otherwise taken by any public authority with or without payment of compensation therefor, nor, to the Knowledge of Star Maritime, has any such condemnation, expropriation or taking been proposed. None of the material assets of Star Maritime is subject to any restriction which would have a Materially Adverse Effect on Star Maritime.
 

 
4.11
Proxy Statement.
 
None of the information to be supplied by Star Maritime for inclusion in the Proxy Statement, or in any amendments thereof or supplements thereto, at the time of the mailing of the Proxy Statement and at the time of the Star Maritime Special Meeting contain any untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state any material fact required to be stated therein or necessary in order to make the statements therein, in light of the circumstances under which they are made, not misleading.
 
4.12
Business. 
 
Star Maritime, since its formation, has engaged in no business other than to seek to serve as a vehicle for the acquisition of an operating business, and, except for this Agreement, is not a party to any contract or agreement for the acquisition of an operating business. Star Maritime has no employees.
 
4.13
Financial Statements. 
 
The financial statements of Star Maritime (collectively, the “Star Maritime Financial Statements”) included in Star Maritime’s SEC Reports present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position and results of operations of Star Maritime as of the respective dates, years and periods indicated, prepared in accordance with GAAP, applied on a consistent basis, and to the Knowledge of Star Maritime, in accordance with Regulation S-X of the SEC and, in particular, Rules 1-02 and 3-05 thereunder (subject, in the case of unaudited interim period financial statements, to normal and recurring year-end adjustments which, individually or collectively, are not material to Star Maritime). Without limiting the generality of the foregoing, (i) there is no basis for any assertion against Star Maritime as of the date of the most recent balance sheet comprising a portion of the Star Maritime Financial Statements of any material debt, liability or obligation of any nature not fully reflected or reserved against in the Star Maritime Financial Statements or in the notes thereto required to be so reflected or reserved in accordance with GAAP; and (ii) there are no assets of Star Maritime, the value of which (in the reasonable judgment of Star Maritime) is materially overstated in the Star Maritime Financial Statements. Except as disclosed therein or as incurred in the ordinary course of business since December 31, 2004, Star Maritime has no known material contingent liabilities (including liabilities for Taxes). Star Maritime is not a party to any contract or agreement for the forward purchase or sale of any foreign currency and has not invested in any “derivatives.”
 

 
4.14
Star Maritime’s SEC Reports.
 
The Star Maritime Common Stock has been registered under Section 12 of the Exchange Act on Form 8-A. Since its inception, Star Maritime has filed all reports, registration statements and other documents, together with any amendments thereto, required to be filed under the Securities Act and the Exchange Act, including but not limited to reports on Form 10-K and Form 10-Q, and Star Maritime will file all such reports, registration statements and other documents required to be filed by it from the date of this Agreement to the Closing Date (all such reports, registration statements and documents, including its Form 8-A, filed or to be filed with the SEC, including Star Maritime’s initial registration statement relating to the Star Maritime Common Stock, and the Star Maritime Warrants, with the exception of the Proxy Statement, are collectively referred to as “Star Maritime’s SEC Reports”). As of their respective dates, Star Maritime’s SEC Reports complied or will comply in all material respects with all rules and regulations promulgated by the SEC and did not or will not contain any untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state a material fact required to be stated therein or necessary in order to make the statements therein, in light of the circumstances under which they were made, not misleading. Neither Star Maritime nor any of its respective directors or officers is the subject of any investigation, inquiry or proceeding before the SEC or any state securities commission or administrative agency.
 
4.15
Absence of Certain Changes or Events.
 
Since December 31, 2006 there has not been:
 
(a) any material adverse change in the financial condition, operations, properties, assets, liabilities or business of Star Maritime;
 
(b) any material damage, destruction or loss of any material properties of Star Maritime, whether or not covered by insurance, which would have a Materially Adverse Effect on Star Maritime;
 
(c) any change in the manner in which the business of Star Maritime has been conducted;
 
(d) any material change in the treatment and protection of trade secrets or other confidential information of Star Maritime, which would have a Materially Adverse Effect on Star Maritime; and
 
(e) any occurrence not included in paragraphs (a) through (d) of this Section which has resulted, or which Star Maritime has reason to believe, could reasonably be expected to result, in a Material Adverse Effect on Star Maritime.
 
4.16
Books, Records and Accounts.
 
Star Maritime’s books, records and accounts fairly and accurately reflect in all material respects transactions and dispositions of assets by Star Maritime, and to the Knowledge of Star Maritime, the system of internal accounting controls of Star Maritime is sufficient to assure that: (a) transactions are executed in accordance with management’s authorization; (b) transactions are recorded as necessary to permit preparation of financial statements in conformity with GAAP, and to maintain accountability for assets; (c) access to assets is permitted only in accordance with management’s authorization; and (d) the recorded accountability for assets is compared with the existing assets at reasonable intervals and appropriate action is taken with respect to any differences.
 

 
4.17
Disclosure Controls.
 
Star Maritime has established and maintains disclosure controls and procedures (as such term is defined in Rule 13a-15 under the Exchange Act), which (i) are designed to ensure that material information relating to Star Maritime is made known to Star Maritime’s principal executive officer and its principal financial officer by others within those entities, particularly during the preparation of the Proxy Statement; (ii) have been evaluated for effectiveness as of the date of this Agreement; and (iii) are effective in all material respects to perform the functions for which they were established.
 
4.18
Absence of Material Weaknesses.
 
Based on the evaluation of its internal controls over financial reporting, Star Maritime is not aware of (i) any significant deficiency or material weakness in the design or operation of internal controls over financial reporting which are reasonably likely to adversely affect Star Maritime’s ability to record, process, summarize and report financial information; or (ii) any fraud, whether or not material, that involves management or other employees who have a significant role in the internal controls over financial reporting.
 
4.19
Brokers and Finders.
 
Star Maritime has not employed any investment banker, broker, finder or intermediary in connection with the transactions contemplated by this Agreement which would be entitled to any investment banking, brokerage, finder’s or similar fee or commission in connection with this Agreement or the transactions contemplated hereby. 
 
4.20
No Omissions or Untrue Statements.
 
No representation or warranty made by Star Maritime to Star Bulk in this Agreement, any Schedules thereto or in any certificate of a Star Maritime officer required to be delivered to Star Bulk pursuant to the terms of this Agreement contains or will contain any untrue statement of a material fact, or omits or will omit to state a material fact necessary to make the statements contained herein or therein in light of the circumstances in which made not misleading as of the date hereof and as of the Closing Date.
 
Article V.
 
CONDUCT OF BUSINESS PENDING THE MERGER
 
5.1
Conduct of Business Prior to Effective Time.
 
Each of Star Maritime and Star Bulk, as applicable, hereby covenants and agrees as follows, from and after the date of this Agreement and until the Effective Time, except as specifically consented to in writing by the other party:
 

 
(a)    It shall conduct its business in the ordinary and usual course of business and consistent with past practice;
 
(b)    It shall not (i) split, combine or reclassify its outstanding capital stock or declare, set aside or pay any dividend or distribution payable in cash, stock, property or otherwise, (ii) spin-off any assets or businesses, (iii) engage in any transaction for the purpose of effecting a recapitalization, or (iv) engage in any transaction or series of related transactions which has a similar effect to any of the foregoing;
 
(c)    It shall not issue, sell, pledge or dispose of, or agree to issue, sell, pledge or dispose of, any additional shares of, or any options, warrants or rights of any kind to acquire any shares of its capital stock of any class or any debt or equity securities convertible into or exchangeable for such capital stock or amend or modify the terms and conditions of any of the foregoing, provided, however, that it may issue shares upon exercise of outstanding options, warrants or stock purchase rights;
 
(d)    It shall not (i) redeem, purchase, acquire or offer to purchase or acquire any shares of its capital stock, other than as required by the governing terms of such securities, (ii) take or fail to take any action which action or failure to take action would cause it or its stockholders (except to the extent that any stockholders receive cash in lieu of fractional shares) to recognize gain or loss for Tax purposes as a result of the consummation of the Merger, (iii) make any acquisition of any material assets (except in the ordinary course of business) or businesses, (iv) sell any material assets (except in the ordinary course of business) or businesses, or (v) enter into any contract, agreement, commitment or arrangement to do any of the foregoing;
 
(e)    It shall use reasonable efforts to preserve intact its business organization and goodwill, keep available the services of its present officers and key employees, and preserve the goodwill and business relationships with suppliers, distributors, customers, and others having business relationships with it, and not engage in any action, directly or indirectly, with the intent to impact adversely the transactions contemplated by this Agreement;
 
(f)    It shall confer on a regular basis with one or more representatives of the other to report on material operational matters and the general status of ongoing operations; and
 
(g)    It shall file with the SEC all forms, statements, reports and documents (including all exhibits, amendments and supplements thereto) required to be filed by it pursuant to the Exchange Act.
 

 
5.2
No Solicitation.
 
(a)    Star Bulk agrees that, prior to the Effective Time or the termination or abandonment of this Agreement, that it shall not, and shall not give authorization or permission to any of Star Bulk’s directors, officers, employees, agents or representatives to, and each shall use all reasonable efforts to see that such persons do not, directly or indirectly, solicit, initiate, facilitate or encourage (including by way of furnishing or disclosing information) any merger, consolidation, other business combination involving Star Bulk or any of the Subsidiaries, acquisition of all or any substantial portion of the assets or capital stock of Star Bulk or any of the Subsidiaries or inquiries or proposals concerning or which may reasonably be expected to lead to any of the foregoing (an “Star Bulk Acquisition Transaction”) or negotiate, explore or otherwise knowingly communicate in any way with any third party (other than Star Maritime or its Affiliates) with respect to any Star Bulk Acquisition Transaction or enter into any agreement, arrangement or understanding requiring Star Bulk to abandon, terminate or fail to consummate the Merger or any other transaction expressly contemplated by this Agreement, or contemplated to be a material part thereof. Star Bulk shall advise Star Maritime in writing of any bona fide inquiries or proposals relating to any Star Bulk Acquisition Transaction within one business day following receipt by Star Bulk of any such inquiry or proposal. Star Bulk shall also promptly advise any person seeking an Star Bulk Acquisition Transaction that it is bound by the provisions of this Section 5.2(a).
 
(b)    Star Maritime agrees that, prior to the Effective Time or the termination or abandonment of this Agreement, Star Maritime shall not give authorization or permission to any of its directors, officers, employees, agents or representatives to, and each shall use all reasonable efforts to see that such persons do not, directly or indirectly, solicit, initiate, facilitate or encourage (including by way of furnishing or disclosing information) any merger, consolidation, other business combination involving Star Maritime, acquisition of all or any substantial portion of the assets or capital stock of Star Maritime, or inquiries or proposals which may reasonably be expected to lead to any of the foregoing (a “Star Maritime Acquisition Transaction”) or negotiate, explore or otherwise knowingly communicate in any way with any third party with respect to any Star Maritime Acquisition Transaction or enter into any agreement, arrangement or understanding requiring it to abandon, terminate or fail to consummate the Merger or any other transaction expressly contemplated by this Agreement, or contemplated to be a material part thereof. Star Maritime shall advise Star Bulk in writing of any bona fide inquiries or proposals relating to a Star Maritime Acquisition Transaction, within one business day following Star Maritime’s receipt of any such inquiry or proposal. Star Maritime shall also promptly advise any person seeking a Star Maritime Acquisition Transaction that it is bound by the provisions of this Section 5.2(b).
 

 
Article VI.
 
ADDITIONAL AGREEMENTS
 
6.1
Access to Information.
 
Each of Star Maritime and Star Bulk shall afford to the other and the other’s accountants, counsel, financial advisors and other representatives reasonable access during normal business hours throughout the period prior to the Effective Time to all properties, books, contracts, commitments and records (including, but not limited to, Tax Returns) of it and, during such period, shall furnish promptly (a) a copy of each report, schedule and other document filed or received by it during such period pursuant to the requirements of federal or state securities laws or filed by it during such period with the SEC in connection with the transactions contemplated by this Agreement or which may have a Material Adverse Effect on it and (b) such other information concerning its business, properties and personnel as the other shall reasonably request; provided, however, that no investigation pursuant to this Section 6.1 shall affect any representation or warranty made herein or the conditions to the obligations of the respective parties to consummate the Merger. All non-public documents and information furnished to Star Maritime or Star Bulk, as the case may be, in connection with the transactions contemplated by this Agreement shall be deemed to have been received, and shall be held by the recipient, in confidence, except that Star Maritime and Star Bulk, as applicable, may disclose such information as may be required under applicable Law or as may be necessary in connection with the preparation of the Proxy Statement. Each party shall promptly advise the others, in writing, of any change or the occurrence of any event after the date of this Agreement and prior to the Effective Time having, or which, insofar as can reasonably be foreseen, in the future would reasonably be expected to have, any Material Adverse Effect on Star Bulk or Star Maritime, as applicable.
 
6.2
Star Bulk Registration Statement.
 
(a)    Star Bulk covenants and agrees to file with the SEC as soon as shall be reasonably practicable following the date of this Agreement (provided Star Maritime shall have supplied Star Bulk with the Proxy Statement to be included therein), at its sole cost and expense, a registration statement on Form F-1/F-4 or comparable form (the “Star Bulk Registration Statement”) which shall include a joint proxy statement/prospectus (the “Proxy Statement”) relating to the solicitation of the Star Maritime Stockholders’ Approval of, and covering the issuance of the Star Bulk Shares in, the Merger, the Star Bulk Warrants and the shares of Star Bulk common stock underlying the Star Bulk Warrants. Star Bulk shall use all reasonable best efforts to have the Star Bulk Registration Statement declared effective by the SEC as promptly as practicable thereafter. Star Bulk shall also take any action (other than qualifying to do business in any jurisdiction in which it is not now so qualified or to file a general consent to service of process) required to be taken under any applicable state securities Laws in connection with the issuance of Star Bulk Shares and the Star Bulk Warrants in the Merger. No filing of, or amendment or supplement to, or correspondence to the SEC or its staff with respect to, the Star Bulk Registration Statement or the Proxy Statement will be made by Star Bulk, without providing Star Maritime a reasonable opportunity to review and comment thereon. Star Bulk will advise Star Maritime, promptly after it receives notice thereof, of the time when the Star Bulk Registration Statement has become effective or any supplement or amendment has been filed to the Star Bulk Registration Statement or the Proxy Statement, the issuance of any stop order, the suspension of the qualification of Star Bulk Shares issuable in connection with the Merger for offering or sale in any jurisdiction, or any request by the SEC for amendment of the Star Bulk Registration Statement, the Proxy Statement or comments thereon and responses thereto or requests by the SEC for additional information. If at any time prior to the Effective Time any information relating to Star Maritime or Star Bulk, or any of their respective Affiliates, officers or directors, should be discovered by Star Maritime or Star Bulk which should be set forth in an amendment or supplement to any of the Star Bulk Registration Statement or the Proxy Statement, so that any of such documents would not include any misstatement of a material fact or omit to state any material fact necessary to make the statements therein, in light of the circumstances under which they were made, not misleading, the party which discovers such information shall promptly notify the other parties hereto and an appropriate amendment or supplement describing such information shall be promptly filed with the SEC and, to the extent required by law, disseminated to the stockholders of Star Maritime.
 

 
(b)    Star Maritime and Star Bulk shall promptly furnish to each other all information, and take such other actions, as may reasonably be requested in connection with any action by any of them in connection with the preparation and filing of the Star Bulk Registration Statement and the Proxy Statement and shall cooperate with one another and use their respective best efforts to facilitate the expeditious consummation of the transactions contemplated by this Agreement.
 
6.3
SEC Filings by Star Maritime.
 
Star Maritime shall file with the SEC, as soon as reasonably practicable following the filing of the Star Bulk Registration Statement, any document required to be filed by it in connection with the Merger and the Star Maritime Stockholders’ Approval contemplated by this Agreement, including, without limitation, any documents required under the SEC’s Regulation 14A.
 
6.4
Stockholders’ Approval.
 
Star Maritime shall use its reasonable best efforts to obtain Star Maritime stockholder approval and adoption of this Agreement and the transactions contemplated hereby (the “Star Maritime Stockholders’ Approval”), as soon as practicable in accordance with applicable Delaware law and the Star Maritime Bylaws following the date on which the Star Bulk Registration Statement is declared effective by the SEC, as follows: (i)  the Merger shall have been approved by a majority of Star Maritime Shares issued and outstanding and entitled to vote thereon; (ii)  the Merger shall have been approved by a majority of the Transaction Shares (as defined below), including the Private Placement Shares (as defined below); and (iii)  holders of less than 6,600,000 Star Maritime Shares, such number representing 33.0% of the Transaction Shares, vote against the Merger and elect to exercise redemption rights. “Transaction Shares” shall mean (i) the 18,867,500 Star Maritime Shares issued as part of the units sold in Star Maritime’s initial public offering which closed on December 21, 2005; and (ii) the 1,132,500 Star Maritime Shares acquired by certain officers and directors of Star Maritime in the private placement which closed on December 15, 2005 (the “Private Placement”). Holders of the Private Placement Shares have agreed to vote such shares in favor of the Merger. Star Maritime shall, through its board of directors, recommend to the holders of Star Maritime Common Stock approval of this Agreement and the transactions contemplated by this Agreement. Prokopios (Akis) Tsirigakis, George Syllantavos, Petros Pappas, Koert Erhardt and Tom Søfteland (theStar Maritime Directors”), in their capacities as members of the board of directors of Star Maritime but subject to their fiduciary duty to the stockholders of Star Maritime, in connection with the solicitation of proxies pursuant to the Proxy Statement, shall unanimously recommend the approval and adoption of the Merger and this Agreement by the stockholders of Star Maritime.
 

 
6.5
Stock Exchange Listing/Exchange Act Listing.
 
Star Maritime and Star Bulk shall each use its reasonable best efforts to file, at or before the Effective Time, authorization for listing of the Star Bulk Shares and the Star Bulk Exchange Securities on the NASDAQ National Market (the “Stock Exchange Listing”). In addition, Star Bulk shall, as soon as reasonably practicable, file a registration statement under the Exchange Act and use its reasonable best efforts to cause the SEC to declare such registration statement effective with respect to the listing of the Star Bulk Shares issued in the Merger, the Star Bulk Warrants and the shares of Star Bulk common stock underlying the Star Bulk Exchange Securities (the “Exchange Act Listing”).
 
6.6
Star Maritime Warrants. 
 
At the Effective Time, Star Bulk shall assume each Star Maritime Warrant in accordance with the terms of the agreement under which it was issued and all rights with respect to Star Maritime Shares under each Star Maritime Warrant then outstanding shall be converted into and become Star Bulk. Accordingly, after the Effective Time, each holder of Star Bulk Warrants at the time of exercise shall receive a number of Star Bulk Shares (rounded up to the nearest whole share) equal to the number of shares of Star Maritime Share subject to such Star Maritime Warrant immediately prior to the Effective Time multiplied by the Exchange Ratio at an exercise price per Star Bulk Share (rounded up to the nearest whole cent) equal to the exercise price in effect prior to the Effective Time divided by the Exchange Ratio. The Star Bulk Warrants shall contain the same terms, conditions and restrictions that were applicable to the Star Maritime Warrants. Prior to the Effective Time, Star Bulk shall take all necessary action to assume as of the Effective Time all obligations undertaken by Star Bulk under this Section 6.6, including the reservation, issuance and listing of a number of Star Bulk Shares at least equal to the number of Star Bulk Shares subject to the assumed Star Maritime Warrants.
 
6.7
Agreement to Cooperate.
 
Subject to the terms and conditions herein provided, each of the parties hereto shall cooperate and use their respective best efforts to take, or cause to be taken, all action and to do, or cause to be done, all things necessary, proper or advisable under applicable laws and regulations to consummate and make effective the transactions contemplated by this Agreement, including using its reasonable efforts to obtain all necessary or appropriate waivers, consents and approvals to effect all necessary registrations, filings and submissions and to lift any injunction or other legal bar to the Merger (and, in such case, to proceed with the Merger as expeditiously as possible), subject, however, to obtaining the Star Maritime Stockholders’ Approval; and provided that nothing in this Section 6.7 shall affect any responsibility or obligation specifically allocated to any party in this Agreement.
 

 
6.8
Corrections to the Proxy Statement and the Star Bulk Registration Statement.
 
Prior to the Closing Date, each of Star Bulk and Star Maritime shall correct promptly any information provided by it to be used specifically in the Proxy Statement and the Star Bulk Registration Statement that shall have become false or misleading in any material respect and shall take all steps necessary to file with the SEC and have cleared by the SEC any amendment or supplement to the Proxy Statement and the Star Bulk Registration Statement so as to correct the same and to cause appropriate dissemination thereof to the stockholders of Star Maritime, to the extent required by applicable Law.
 
6.9
Disclosure Supplements.
 
From time to time prior to the Closing Date, and in any event immediately prior to the Closing Date, each of Star Maritime and Star Bulk shall promptly supplement or amend its Schedules hereto with respect to any matter hereafter arising that, if existing, occurring or known at the date of this Agreement, would have been required to be set forth or described in such Schedule or that is necessary to correct any information in such Schedule that is or has become inaccurate. Notwithstanding the foregoing, if any such supplement or amendment discloses a Material Adverse Effect, the conditions to the other party’s obligations to consummate the Merger set forth in Article VII hereof shall be deemed not to have been satisfied.
 
Article VII.
 
CONDITIONS
 
7.1
Conditions to Each Party’s Obligations to Effect the Merger.
 
The respective obligation of each party to effect the Merger shall be subject to the fulfillment at or prior to the Closing Date of the following conditions:
 
(a)    Star Maritime shall have obtained the Star Maritime Stockholders’ Approval;
 
(b)    The Star Bulk Registration Statement shall have become effective under the Securities Act and shall not be the subject of any stop order or proceedings seeking a stop order;
 

 
(c)    The Star Bulk Shares issuable to Star Maritime’s stockholders pursuant to Section 2.9 hereof, the Star Bulk Warrants issuable to Star Maritime shareholders pursuant to Section 2.10 hereof and the Star Bulk Shares issuable upon exercise of such Star Bulk Warrants shall have been approved for the Stock Exchange Listing and the Exchange Act Listing, subject to any notice of issuance or similar requirement.
 
(d)    The Vessel Acquisition Agreements shall be in full force and effect;
 
(e)    No preliminary or permanent injunction or other order or decree by any Governmental Authority which prevents or materially burdens the consummation of the Merger shall have been issued and remain in effect (each party agreeing to use its reasonable efforts to have any such injunction, order or decree lifted);
 
(f)    No action shall have been taken, and no statute, rule or regulation shall have been enacted, by any Governmental Authority, which would prevent or materially burden the consummation of the Merger;
 
(g)    All consents, orders and approvals legally required for the consummation of the Merger and the transactions contemplated hereby shall have been obtained and be in effect at the Effective Time without any material limitations or conditions.
 
7.2
Conditions to Obligations of Star Bulk to Effect the Merger.
 
Unless waived by Star Bulk, the obligation of Star Bulk to effect the Merger shall also be subject to the fulfillment at or prior to the Closing Date of the following additional conditions:
 
(a)    Star Maritime shall have performed in all material respects its agreements contained in this Agreement required to be performed on or prior to the Closing Date and the representations and warranties of Star Maritime contained in this Agreement shall be true and correct in all material respects (except for those representations and warranties which are themselves limited by a reference to materiality, which shall be true and correct in all respects other than as modified) on and as of (i) the date made and (ii) the Closing Date (in each case except in the case of representations and warranties expressly made solely with reference to a particular date which shall be true and correct in all material respects as of such date); and Star Bulk shall have received a certificate of the president of Star Maritime to that effect;
 
(b)    Since the date of this Agreement there shall not have been any Material Adverse Effect with respect to Star Maritime, the likelihood of which was not previously disclosed to Star Bulk by Star Maritime as contemplated by this Agreement and Star Maritime shall have engaged in no business activity since the date of its incorporation other than conducting a public offering of its securities and, thereafter, seeking to effect a merger or similar business combination with an operating business;
 

 
(c)    Star Bulk shall have received a certificate from the corporate Secretary of Star Maritime, together with a certified copy of the resolutions duly authorized by Star Maritime’s board of directors authorizing the Merger and, if applicable, the transactions contemplated by this Agreement;
 
(d)    Star Bulk shall have received a certificates of good standing for Star Maritime from the Secretary of State of the State of Delaware dated as of a date that is within five (5) days of the Closing Date;
 
(e)    Star Maritime shall have furnished to Star Bulk such additional certificates and other customary closing documents as Star Bulk may have reasonably requested as to any of the conditions set forth in this Section 7.2;
 
(f)    At Closing, the Star Maritime capitalization shall be unchanged from that set forth in Section 4.2;
 
(g)    Star Maritime shall have conducted the operation of its business in material compliance with all applicable Laws and all approvals required of Star Maritime under applicable law to enable Star Maritime to perform its obligations under this Agreement shall have been obtained; and
 
(h)    All corporate proceedings of Star Maritime in connection with the Merger and the other transactions contemplated by this Agreement and all agreements, instruments, certificates, and other documents delivered to Star Bulk by or on behalf of Star Maritime pursuant to this Agreement shall be reasonably satisfactory to Star Bulk and its counsel.
 
7.3
Conditions to Obligations of Star Maritime to Effect the Merger.
 
Unless waived by Star Maritime, the obligations of Star Maritime to effect the Merger shall also be subject to the fulfillment at or prior to the Closing Date of the additional following conditions:
 
(a)    Star Bulk shall have performed in all material respects their agreements contained in this Agreement required to be performed on or prior to the Closing Date and the representations and warranties of Star Bulk contained in this Agreement shall be true and correct in all material respects (except for those representations and warranties which are themselves limited by a reference to materiality, which shall be true and correct in all respects, other than as modified) on and as of (i) the date made and (ii) the Closing Date (in each case except in the case of representations and warranties expressly made solely with reference to a particular date which shall be true and correct in all material respects as of such date); and Star Maritime shall have received a certificate of the president of Star Bulk to that effect;
 

 
(b)    Star Maritime shall have received an opinion from Seward & Kissel LLP, U.S. counsel to Star Maritime, dated the Closing Date, in form and substance reasonably satisfactory to Star Maritime, which shall include, among other things, an opinion that (i) the Merger will be treated as a "reorganization" within the meaning of Section 368(a) of the Code, (ii) each of Star Bulk and Star Maritime will be treated as a "party to a reorganization" within the meaning of Section 368(b) of the Code, and (iii) neither Star Maritime nor the stockholders of Star Maritime (except to the extent of any cash received by such stockholders) will recognize any taxable gain or loss for U.S. federal income tax purposes upon consummation of the Merger.
 
(c)    Star Maritime shall have received a certificate from the president of Star Bulk that the Vessel Acquisition Agreements are in full force and effect;
 
(d)    Immediate prior to Closing, Star Bulk’s capitalization shall be unchanged from that as set forth in Section 3.3;
 
(e)    Star Maritime shall have received a certificate of the corporate Secretary of Star Bulk together with a certified copy of the resolutions duly authorized by the board of directors and the sole Star Bulk shareholder authorizing the Merger and the transactions contemplated by this Agreement;
 
(f)    Star Maritime shall have received a certificate of good standing for Star Bulk from the Registrar of Corporations of the Republic of the Marshall Islands dated as of a date that is within five (5) days of the Closing Date;
 
(g)    Star Bulk shall have furnished to Star Maritime such additional certificates and other customary closing documents as Star Maritime may have reasonably requested as to any of the conditions set forth in this Section 7.3;
 
(h)    Since the date of this Agreement there shall not have been any Material Adverse Effect with respect to Star Bulk, the likelihood of which was not previously disclosed to Star Maritime by Star Bulk;
 
(i)    Star Bulk shall have amended its Articles of Incorporation and By-laws on terms reasonably satisfactory to Star Maritime, including, but not limited to, removing any ability of such company to issue bearer shares, and such documents shall be in full force and effect;
 
(j)    Star Bulk shall be the sole registered and beneficial shareholder of the Subsidiaries;
 

 
(k)    Star Maritime shall be the sole registered and beneficial shareholder of Star Bulk; and
 
(l)    All corporate proceedings of Star Bulk in connection with the Merger and the other transactions contemplated by this Agreement and all agreements, instruments, certificates and other documents delivered to Star Maritime by or on behalf of Star Bulk pursuant to this Agreement shall be in substantially the form called for hereunder or otherwise reasonably satisfactory to Star Maritime and its counsel.
 
Article VIII.
 
TERMINATION, AMENDMENT AND WAIVER
 
8.1
Termination. 
 
This Agreement may be terminated at any time prior to the Closing Date, whether before or after approval by the stockholders of Star Maritime:
 
(a)    by mutual consent in writing of Star Maritime and Star Bulk;
 
(b)    unilaterally upon written notice by Star Maritime to Star Bulk in the event a material breach of any material representation or warranty of Star Bulk contained in this Agreement (unless such breach shall have been cured within ten (10) days after the giving of such notice by Star Maritime), or the willful failure of Star Bulk to comply with or satisfy any material covenant or condition of Star Bulk contained in this Agreement; or
 
(c)    unilaterally upon written notice by Star Bulk to Star Maritime in the event of a material breach of any material representation or warranty of Star Maritime contained in this Agreement (unless such breach shall have been cured by Star Maritime within ten (10) days after the giving of such notice by Star Bulk), or Star Maritime’s willful failure to comply with or satisfy any material covenant or condition of Star Maritime contained in this Agreement, or if Star Maritime fails to obtain the Star Maritime Stockholders’ Approval.
 
8.2
Effect of Termination.
 
In the event of termination of this Agreement by either Star Maritime or Star Bulk, as provided in Section 8.1, this Agreement shall forthwith become void and there shall be no further obligation on the part of either Star Bulk or Star Maritime (except as set forth in the penultimate sentence of Section 6.1 (with respect to confidential and nonpublic information) and Section 8.5, which shall survive such termination). Nothing in this Section 8.2 shall relieve any party from liability for any breach of this Agreement.
 

 
8.3
Amendment. 
 
This Agreement may not be amended except by an instrument in writing signed on behalf of each of the parties hereto and in compliance with applicable law.
 
8.4
Waiver. 
 
At any time prior to the Effective Time, the parties hereto may (i) extend the time for the performance of any of the obligations or other acts of the other parties hereto, (ii) waive any inaccuracies in the representations and warranties contained herein or in any document delivered pursuant thereto and (iii) waive compliance with any of the agreements or conditions contained herein. Any agreement on the part of a party hereto to any such extension or waiver shall be valid only if set forth in an instrument in writing signed on behalf of such party.
 
8.5
Expenses. 
 
Whether or not the Merger is consummated, all costs and expenses incurred in connection with this Agreement and the transactions contemplated hereby shall be paid by the party incurring such costs and expenses, except as otherwise specifically provided for herein.
 
Article IX.
 
GENERAL PROVISIONS
 
9.1
Notices. 
 
All notices and other communications hereunder shall be in writing and shall be deemed given if delivered personally (effective upon delivery), sent by a reputable overnight courier service for next business day delivery (effective the next business day) or sent via facsimile (effective upon receipt of the telecopy in complete, readable form) to the parties at the following addresses (or at such other address for a party as shall be specified by like notice):
 
(a)    If to Star Maritime to:
 
Star Maritime Acquisition Corp.
103 Foulk Road
Wilmington, DE 19803
 
with a copy to:
 
Seward & Kissel LLP
One Battery Park Plaza
New York, New York 10004
Attention: Robert E. Lustrin, Esq.
FAX: (212) 480-8421
 

 
(b)    If to Star Bulk , to:
 
Star Bulk Carriers Corp.
40 Ag. Konstantinou Avenue
Aethrion Center, Suite B34
Maroussi 15124
Athens, Greece
 
with a copy to:
Seward & Kissel LLP
One Battery Park Plaza
New York, New York 10004
Attention: Robert E. Lustrin, Esq.
FAX: (212) 480-8421
 
9.2
Interpretation. 
 
The headings contained in this Agreement are for reference purposes only and shall not affect in any way the meaning or interpretation of this Agreement.
 
9.3
Miscellaneous. 
 
This Agreement (including the documents and instruments referred to herein) (i) constitutes the entire agreement and supersedes all other prior agreements and understandings, both written and oral, among the parties, or any of them, with respect to the subject matter hereof; (ii) shall not be assigned by contract, operation of law or otherwise, and any attempt to do so shall be void; and (iii) shall be governed in all respects, including validity, interpretation and effect, by the laws of the State of New York (without giving effect to the provisions thereof relating to conflicts of law).
 
9.4
Submission to Jurisdiction.
 
Each of the parties hereto hereby irrevocably and unconditionally submits, for itself and its property, to the non-exclusive jurisdiction of the Supreme Court of the State of New York sitting in the Borough of Manhattan in The City of New York and of the United States District Court for the Southern District of New York sitting in the Borough of Manhattan in The City of New York, and any appellate court from any thereof, in any action or proceeding arising out of or relating to any matter set forth in this Agreement, and each of the parties hereto hereby irrevocably agree that all claims in respect of such action or proceeding may be heard and determined in such New York State or Federal court. Star Maritime and Star Bulk hereby irrevocably waive, to the fullest extent that they may legally do so, the defense of an inconvenient forum to the maintenance of such action or proceeding. Star Maritime and Star Bulk irrevocably consent to the service of any and all process in any action or proceeding by the delivery of copies of such process to it at its notice address in Section 9.1. Star Maritime and Star Bulk agree that a final judgment in any such action or proceeding shall be conclusive and may be enforced in other jurisdictions by suit on the judgment or in any other manner provided by law.
 

 
9.5
Waiver of Jury Trial. 
 
THE PARTIES HEREBY IRREVOCABLY WAIVE, TO THE FULLEST EXTENT PERMITTED BY APPLICABLE LAW, ANY AND ALL RIGHT TO TRIAL BY JURY (BUT NO OTHER JUDICIAL REMEDIES) IN ANY LEGAL PROCEEDING ARISING OUT OF OR RELATING TO THIS AGREEMENT AND THE TRANSACTIONS CONTEMPLATED HEREBY.
 
9.6
Counterparts. 
 
This Agreement may be executed in two or more counterparts, each of which shall be deemed to be an original, but all of which shall constitute one and the same agreement. In pleading or proving this Agreement, it shall not be necessary to produce or account for more than one fully executed original.
 
9.7
Benefits of Agreement.
 
Nothing in this Agreement, expressed or implied, shall give to any Person, other than the parties hereto and their successors hereunder, and the stockholders of Star Maritime, any benefit or any legal or equitable right, remedy or claim under this Agreement.
 
9.8
Parties in Interest. 
 
This Agreement shall be binding upon and inure solely to the benefit of each party hereto, and nothing in this Agreement, express or implied, is intended to confer upon any other person any rights or remedies of any nature whatsoever under or by reason of this Agreement, except as otherwise provided in Section 9.7 of this Agreement.
 
9.9
Captions. 
 
The captions of sections and subsections of this Agreement are for reference only, and shall not affect the interpretation or construction of this Agreement.
 


 
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, Star Maritime, and Star Bulk have caused this Agreement to be signed by their respective officers thereunto duly authorized as of the date first written above.
 
 
     
  STAR MARITIME ACQUISITION CORP.
 
 
 
 
 
 
  By:   /s/ Prokopios Tsirigakis
 
Name: Prokopios Tsirigakis
Title: Chairman, Chief Executive Officer and President
   
 
     
  STAR BULK CARRIERS CORP.
 
 
 
 
 
 
  By:   /s/ Prokopios Tsirigakis
 
Name: Prokopios Tsirigakis
Title: President
   
 

 
SCHEDULE 2.5
 
Directors of Surviving Corporation
 

 
Prokopios (Akis) Tsirigakis
 
George Syllantavos
 
Petros Pappas
 
Nobu Su
 
Peter Espig
 
Koert Erhardt
 
Tom Søfteland
 

 
SCHEDULE 2.6
 
Star Bulks Shares Post Merger
 

 
 
Securities Outstanding Immediately Before Merger
Securities Outstanding Immediately After Merger1 
Star Maritime common shares
29,026,924
0
Star Maritime preferred shares
0
0
Star Maritime warrants
20,000,000
0
Star Bulk common shares
   5002
29,026,924
Star Bulk preferred shares
0
0
Star Bulk warrants
0
20,000,000
 

1 Assumes all outstanding securities in Star Maritime and Star Bulk are exchanged for, or converted to, Star Bulk Shares.
2 Cancelled in merger.


 
SCHEDULE 3.1
 
Jurisdictions In Which Star Bulk Is Qualified
 
Marshall Islands.
 


SCHEDULE 3.5(a)
 
Material Agreements Of Star Bulk
 

 
Supplemental Agreement dated January 12, 2007 by and among Star Maritime, Star Bulk and TMT.
 
Memorandum of Agreement relating to the A Duckling dated January 12, 2007 between Star Bulk Carriers Corp., as buyer, and A Duckling Corporation, as seller.
 
Memorandum of Agreement relating to the B Duckling dated January 12, 2007 between Star Bulk Carriers Corp., as buyer, and B Duckling Corporation, as seller.
 
Memorandum of Agreement relating to the C Duckling dated January 12, 2007 between Star Bulk Carriers Corp., as buyer, and C Duckling Corporation, as seller.
 
Memorandum of Agreement relating to the F Duckling dated January 12, 2007 between Star Bulk Carriers Corp., as buyer, and F Duckling Corporation, as seller.
 
Memorandum of Agreement relating to the G Duckling dated January 12, 2007 between Star Bulk Carriers Corp., as buyer, and G Duckling Corporation, as seller.
 
Memorandum of Agreement relating to the I Duckling dated January 12, 2007 between Star Bulk Carriers Corp., as buyer, and I Duckling Corporation, as seller.
 
Memorandum of Agreement relating to the J Duckling dated January 12, 2007 between Star Bulk Carriers Corp., as buyer, and J Duckling Corporation, as seller.
 
Memorandum of Agreement relating to the Mommy Duckling dated January 12, 2007 between Star Bulk Carriers Corp., as buyer, and Mommy Management Corp., as seller.
 


SCHEDULE 3.14
 
Material Adverse Changes
 
None.
 


SCHEDULE 4.1
 
Jurisdictions In Which Star Maritime Is Qualified
 
Delaware.
 


 
Appendix L

FORM OF PROXY
 
STAR MARITIME ACQUISITION CORP.
 
PROXY FOR THE SPECIAL MEETING
 
TO BE HELD ON           , 2007
 
The undersigned stockholder of Star Maritime Acquisition Corp., a Delaware corporation (the “Company”), hereby acknowledges receipt of the Notice of the Special Meeting of Stockholders and Proxy Statement and hereby appoints Prokopios (Akis) Tsirigakis and George Syllantavos, or any of them, proxies and attorneys-in-fact, with full power to each of substitution and revocation, on behalf and in the name of the undersigned, to represent the undersigned at the Special Meeting of Stockholders of the Company to be held at                                 , New York, New York at 10:00 a.m. or at any adjournment or postponement thereof, and to vote, as designated below, all shares of common stock of the Company which the undersigned would be entitled to vote if then and there personally present, on the matters set forth below.
 
The Board of Directors recommends that you vote “FOR” the proposal.
 
1.
To consider and vote upon a  proposal to approve and authorize the merger, which we refer to as the Redomiciliation Merger, pursuant to the Agreement and Plan of Merger, dated March 14, 2007, by and between Star Maritime and its wholly-owned Marshall Islands subsidiary, Star Bulk Carriers Corp., or Star Bulk, whereby Star Maritime will merge with and into Star Bulk, with Star Bulk as the surviving corporation. Star Bulk has entered into contracts to acquire a fleet of eight drybulk carriers from certain wholly-owned subsidiaries of TMT Co., Ltd., for an aggregate purchase price of $345,237,520, consisting of $224,500,000 in cash and 12,537,645 shares of common stock of Star Bulk. As a result of the Redomiciliation Merger: (i) the separate corporate existence of Star Maritime will cease; (ii) each share of Star Maritime common stock, par value $0.0001 per share, will be converted into the right to receive one share of Star Bulk common stock, par value $0.01 per share; and (iii) each outstanding warrant Star Maritime will be assumed by Star Bulk with the same terms and restrictions, except that each will be exercisable for common stock of Star Bulk.
 
FOR
AGAINST
ABSTAIN
o
o
o
 
The undersigned stockholder of the Company elects to redeem _____ shares of the Company's common stock held by the undersigned.
 

 
THIS PROXY WHEN PROPERLY EXECUTED WILL BE VOTED AS DIRECTED OR, IF NO DIRECTION IS GIVEN, WILL BE VOTED “FOR” THE PROPOSAL SPECIFICALLY IDENTIFIED ABOVE. 
 
 
THIS PROXY IS SOLICITED ON BEHALF OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS.
 
   
Date: _____________, 2007
 
 
PLEASE DATE AND SIGN ABOVE exactly as name appears at the left, indicating, where proper, official position or representative capacity. For stock held in joint tenancy, each joint owner should sign.