Maersk Tankers orders up to 10 very large ammonia carriers

Japan’s Mitsui & Co is co-investor in the first four firm contracts for 96,000 cu metre ammonia carriers.

“Mitsui will leverage its expertise and experience in the shipping industry as well as in energy and chemicals to accelerate the transportation of ammonia which we see as one of the promising options for sources of next generation energy,” said Kensuke Kubota, General Manager of the Marine Solution Business Division at Mitsui & Co.

The vessels will be operated by Maersk Tankers, which has options for a further six VLAC newbuilds with the Korean yard. 

Maersk Tankers’ CEO, Tina Revsbech, said: “Concrete actions are needed for the tanker industry to progress the energy transition, and in Maersk Tankers, we want to play our part in making transportation of clean energy a reality. We are building on our legacy of operating gas carriers to offer a crucial transportation service that will aid the transition.

“With this initiative, we will be able to service clean ammonia producers and users in many parts of the world with highly energy efficient and safe ships.”

The first four VLACs are due to be delivered from late 2026-onwards. The vessels will be classed by ABS.