EPS welcomes sixth LNG dual-fuel bulker for charter with Rio Tinto

The last of six 210,000 dwt LNG dual-fuel Newcastlemax bulkers has been delivered to Singapore-based shipowner Eastern Pacific Shipping (EPS).

Following its launch in May 2024, the vessel Mount Ossa was handed over to EPS on July 24 by New Times Shipbuilding (NTS) in China.

Mount Ossa is the last vessel in EPS’ series of six 210,000 dwt dual-fuel bulkers chartered to London-based metals and mining corporation Rio Tinto.

Mount Tai, the fifth unit in this series, was named and delivered in May 2023. The fourth vessel, Mount Ararat, was built at the beginning of 2023 while the third vessel was delivered in November 2022.

The delivery of Mount Ossa also marks the 21st vessel being delivered by the Chinese shipyard to EPS.

“Despite global challenges, Rio Tinto and EPS have shown unparalleled resilience and a strong commitment to decarbonize shipping. Over the past three years, these LNG-powered vessels have proven to be a sustainable choice, emitting 30% less than their conventional counterparts. We have successfully completed over 200 LNG bunkering operations, significantly reducing emissions across our fleet”, EPS said.

The company’s 200th ship-to-ship (STS) bunkering operation involved pure car and truck carrier (PCTC) CMA CGM Daytona. The 700 CEU ship received 930 cubic meters of LNG from Pavilion Energy’s bunker vessel LBV Brassavola.