Seatankers Orders Two VLCCs from Chinese Builder | Mariner News
Seatankers Management, a leading private shipping company, has significantly boosted its crude oil transport capabilities by placing an order for two Very Large Crude Carriers (VLCCs) with Chinese builder Hengli Shipbuilding. This strategic move, valued between $200 million and $300 million, underscores Seatankers’ commitment to expanding its global fleet and strengthening its position in the maritime sector.
Strategic Fleet Expansion and Vessel Specifications
The contracts, signed with single-purpose vessel companies under Seatankers, specify the construction of two 306,000-tonne VLCCs. These advanced vessels are meticulously designed for efficient, long-distance transoceanic crude oil transport, ensuring compatibility with major global port infrastructure. Operating a diverse fleet of oil and gas tankers, this order enhances their capacity for critical international shipping routes. Deliveries of these crucial new additions are slated to commence sequentially in the latter half of 2028, reinforcing Seatankers’ operational capacity.
Strengthening Global Maritime Competitiveness
Hengli Shipbuilding, a key player in the Chinese maritime sector, anticipates a positive impact on its future financial results and expects to bolster its medium- to long-term market competitiveness through these significant shipbuilding contracts. While the performance of these agreements is subject to market risks, including fluctuations in shipping demand, raw material prices, and exchange rate volatility, this order highlights the robust and continued demand for large crude oil tankers globally. It further solidifies China’s role in constructing advanced vessels for the international shipping industry.
