Topic
Tankers Lng
Logistics Pan Ocean linked to four-VLCC order at Hanwha Ocean in $524m deal
Pan Ocean has been identified as the buyer behind a four-vessel VLCC order at Hanwha Ocean, valued at KRW800.1bn ($524m). The order follows a $700m VLCC acquisition from SK Shipping and highlights Pan Ocean's continued expansion into crude tanker shipping, complementing its core dry bulk operations.
Logistics Capital Tankers Expands VLCC Fleet with Three Newbuilds from Marinakis Affiliate
Capital Tankers, backed by Evangelos Marinakis, is acquiring three VLCC newbuilding contracts from parent company Capital Maritime & Trading Corp. The vessels are under construction at China's Hengli Shipbuilding for delivery in late 2027. The transaction involves an upfront payment of $111.8 million by end of June, with remaining balances due upon delivery, and is expected to strengthen the company's orderbook.
Logistics UK Forces Seize Russian Shadow Fleet Tanker in English Channel, Prompting Calls to Arm Vessels
British forces conducted their first-ever seizure of a Russian shadow fleet tanker, the Smyrtos, in the English Channel, arresting an Indian seafarer on suspicion of sanctions offences. The operation has caused other sanctioned tankers to alter course away from the Channel. In response, Russian Senator Dmitry Rogozin suggested equipping shadow fleet tankers with explosives as a deterrent.
Logistics Strait of Hormuz Closure Hits 100 Days as Dark Tanker Trade Masks True Oil Flow
The Strait of Hormuz has been effectively closed for more than 100 days, causing a 95% reduction in crude shipments from Arabian Gulf ports and a 99% drop in LNG carriers, according to WTO data. The 'dark trade' of vessels running without AIS transponders makes actual oil flows difficult to quantify, but analysts estimate 100 million barrels may have moved through since May 1. Despite the disruption, Brent crude sits at $87.55 per barrel due to buffers from China, the US, Brazil, and Canada. Recovery may take years, with IEA warning of up to two years for energy facility repairs.