German shipowner orders methanol-ready tanker duo in China

German shipping company Leonhardt & Blumberg has placed an order for the construction of two methanol-ready MR2 tankers at Guangzhou Shipyard International (GSI), a subsidiary of China State Shipbuilding Corporation (CSSC).

As disclosed, these advanced, environmentally friendly vessels will measure 183 meters in length, 32 meters in width, and 13.3 meters in scantling draft, with a speed of 14.5 knots.

Designed by GSI, the 49,500 dwt ships will be able to operate on methanol in the future. Furthermore, they will be equipped with open-loop scrubbers and compliant with Tier III and EEDI Phase 3 standards, according to the shipowner.

The latest deal brings Leonhardt & Blumberg’s orderbook tally at GSI to four. The initial contract for the construction of two more ships was signed in April this year. The first two MR tankers are slated for delivery from January 2027.

This marks the first cooperation between Leonhardt & Blumberg and CSSC Group on MR newbuildings, strengthening their long-standing relationship. 

To remind, last November, the German shipping company and Dutch counterpart Boomsma Shipping placed a joint order for the construction of up to eight 8,500-ton low-emission dry cargo vessels. The ships, to be built by Chowgule and Company – Shipbuilding Division Group in India, are expected for delivery in autumn 2025. They will be prepared for the installation of wind-assisted propulsion, carbon capture, and emission-free operation on batteries.

Leonhardt & Blumberg steers a fleet of 29 handy-sized container ships and five product tankers, according to the firm’s website.  Since 2022, the company also invested in the 50,000 dwt product tanker segment.