Essberger orders 2+4 methanol-capable chemical tankers

September 24, 2024, by Naida Hakirevic Prevljak

German shipping company John T. Essberger has placed an order for two 13,000 dwt chemical tankers with 1A ice class and stainless steel tanks at the Rainbow shipyard in Nantong, China.

Additionally, the shipowner has secured options for four more vessels of this type.

“Our new tankers are equipped with innovative engines capable of running on methanol, allowing us to meet the future demands for environmentally friendly fuels. These vessels reflect our commitment to safety, fuel efficiency, and environmental protection at the highest level,” the company said.

As informed, the first of these newbuilds is scheduled for delivery in April 2027 and will be deployed in the E&S Tankers Pool, a joint venture between Essberger Tankers and Stolt Tankers formed in 2020.

The tankers will feature a length of 132 meters, a breadth of 21.8 meters and a draught of 8.5 meters, the company revealed in a statement.

John T. Essberger has been pursuing its fleet modernization strategy despite global challenges in shipyard capacity and rising construction costs. The investment also coincides with the 100th anniversary of the company, which was founded in Hamburg in 1924.

Earlier this month, the final ship in a series of four 7,135 dwt chemical tankers was christened. The newbuilding was named after the company’s founder John T. Essberger.

In June this year, the company christened LNG dual-fuel chemical tankers Eberhart Essberger and Heinrich Essberger.

Back in 2021, the shipping company ordered the four ships at China Merchants Jinling Shipyard in China. The contract includes options for four more units.