Norwegian open hatch bulker owner Gearbulk has contracted up to four ammonia and methanol-ready 82,300 dwt open hatch newbuildings.
The contract covers two firm vessels, with an option to purchase a further two, with CSSC Huangpu Wenchong Longxue shipyard to deliver the first two vessels in the first half of 2027.
As it is revealed by the owner who controls a fleet of about 65 open hatch and other specialised vessels, the company has secured financing for the vessels.
The four new ships will be commercially operated by G2 Ocean and will trade alongside newbuilding sister vessels recently ordered by Gearbulk’s joint venture partner, Grieg Maritime Group.
Kristian Jebsen, chief executive of Gearbulk Holding AG, said: “This contract for four newbuildings marks a significant milestone for Gearbulk as these vessels are set to be the largest and most efficient in the company’s history.
“With this investment, we are not only enhancing our operational efficiency but also reaffirming our dedication to meeting the evolving needs of global trade. It’s a proud moment for Gearbulk, and we look forward to the positive impact these vessels will bring to our customers.”
The ammonia/methanol ready, open hatch ships will have eight holds/hatches and four electro-hydraulic jib cranes, with safe working load (SWL) lifting capacity of 2x 75 metric tonnes and 2x 120 metric tonnes.
Dedicated deck space on either side of the accommodation has been incorporated into the design for the future installation of fuel tanks for alternative fuels.
With a length overall of 225 meters and beam of 36 meters, this new vessel design has been designated as a ‘Pulpmax’.
It is worth mentioning that Gearbulk’s fleet is commercially operated by G2 Ocean, where Gearbulk is the majority owner.
Source: Gearbulk Ltd
