Nanjing Tanker books four methanol-ready tankers at compatriot yard

As part of its fleet renewal push, Nanjing Tanker, a unit of China Merchants Group, has ordered four methanol-ready tankers from compatriot shipyard Guangzhou Shipyard International (GSI).

According to the information provided by Intermodal, the Chinese shipowner finalized the deal for the construction of four methanol-ready tankers. The initial cooperation agreement with GSI was signed in September this year. Now, the board members approved the purchase of the vessels.

The tankers, each with a deadweight tonnage (DWT) of 65,000 tons, will be built to meet the latest environmental standards, including IMO Tier III emission regulations.

The vessels are designed to be methanol-ready, allowing them to operate using methanol as a fuel option. Methanol has been gaining traction in the maritime industry as a cleaner alternative to traditional marine fuels, offering significant reductions in sulfur oxide (SOx), nitrogen oxide (NOx), and carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions.

Furthermore, the ships will feature technologies to enhance operational efficiency and safety. They will be equipped with an advanced engine room monitoring system, allowing for real-time tracking of critical shipboard operations, from fuel consumption to engine performance, according to Nanjing Tanker.

Additional characteristics include optimized cargo oil systems and improved hull lines, which are designed to reduce friction and enhance fuel efficiency. These enhancements are expected to further increase the tankers’ overall operational performance, contributing to lower fuel consumption and a smaller carbon footprint over the ships’ lifespan.

The price tag per vessel is $63 million, and the ships are slated for delivery in 2027 and 2028, respectively.

Established in the early 1990s, Nanjing Tanker operates a fleet of tankers that transport crude oil, refined petroleum products, chemicals, and other liquid bulk cargoes.

At present, the shipowner owns and controls a total of 73 ships, with a total capacity of 2.78 million deadweight tons and an annual transportation capacity of more than 44 million tons, according to the company’s website.