Advantage Tankers Breaks Into MR Tanker Segment With Four-Vessel China Order

Switzerland-based Advantage Tankers has entered the MR tanker segment with a new contract in China, following an extensive ordering programme focused on larger vessels. Market sources say the owner has placed an order for four 50,000-deadweight-tonne vessels at CSSC's Guangzhou Shipyard International, with deliveries scheduled through 2029. The order marks the company's entry into the MR segment, adding to a newbuilding programme that already spans Suezmax tankers and VLCCs.

 

Details of the Order

 

Advantage Tankers has placed a new order. It marks entry into the MR tanker segment. The order is in China. Market sources reported the deal. It reflects the company's continued expansion.

The order has specific parameters. It covers four 50,000-deadweight-tonne vessels. They will be built at a CSSC yard. This is Guangzhou Shipyard International. Deliveries are scheduled through 2029.

 

The Segment Entry

 

The order marks a strategic first. It is the company's entry into MR tankers. Its previous focus was larger vessels. This diversifies its newbuild programme. It broadens the company's segment coverage.

The company's fleet reflects its prior focus. It operates 28 active tankers. These range from LR1s to VLCCs. The MR order adds a new size. This expands its range of vessel types.

 

The Broader Ordering Programme

 

The company has been highly active. It has placed multiple recent orders. These span Chinese and South Korean yards. Its programme now covers 12 vessels. These comprise Suezmaxes and VLCCs.

Recent orders illustrate this activity. It contracted a yard for two VLCCs. It ordered two Suezmaxes elsewhere. The MR order adds to these. This reflects a sustained newbuild drive.

 

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The Market Context

 

The order reflects strong MR demand. The shipyard leads in MR orders. It signed new contracts at a recent trade fair. Globally, MR ordering has been strong. Many vessels were contracted this year.

Market data underscores the trend. The MR2 segment ranked second in ordering. Only VLCCs saw more activity. An ageing fleet supports this demand. Older vessels form a significant fleet share.

 

Significance of the Order

 

The order reflects the company's growth. It diversifies its fleet composition. Entering MR tankers broadens its reach. This complements its larger vessels. It positions the company across more segments.

The order joins a broader market trend. Several owners have ordered MR tankers. These are being built in China. This reflects strong segment demand. The company's order contributes to this activity.