The Hellenic Merchant Navy refers to the Merchant Navy of , engaged in commerce and transportation of goods and services universally. It consists of the merchant vessels owned by Greek civilians, flying either the Greek flag or a flag of convenience. According to Lloyd's List, in 2015, Greece was the first ship owner country in the world in terms of tonnage with a total DWT of 334,649,089 tons and 5,226 Greek-owned vessels. Greece is a maritime nation by tradition, as shipping is arguably the oldest form of occupation of the Greeks and a key element of Greek economic activity since the ancient times. Today it is the second largest contributor to the national economy after tourism. The Greek fleet flies a variety of flags; however, some Greek shipowners gradually return to Greece following