The global VLCC newbuilding market continues to expand as recently Greek shipowner Peter C. Georgiopoulos and China’s Wison New Energies confirmed a milestone order for the construction of up to ten very large crude carriers (VLCCs).
Peter C. Georgiopoulos-led United Overseas Group (UOG) has placed a major order for 10 VLCCs at China’s Wison New Energies, consisting of six firm and four optional units.
UOG chairman Georgiopoulos described the VLCC market as a critical component of global energy transportation and said the company looked forward to working closely with Wison New Energies on the project.
Each unit will have a deadweight capacity of 319,000-dwt, with deliveries scheduled from the fourth quarter of 2027 onwards. The contract value has not been disclosed.
The deal represents a significant milestone for both companies. For Wison New Energies, it marks the company’s first entry into the VLCC segment and will further strengthen its competitiveness in high-end offshore engineering and large-scale vessel construction.
For UOG, the transaction reflects its commitment to investing in modern assets positioned to serve long-term global energy transportation demand.
The vessels will feature optimized hull forms, advanced propulsion integration, and energy-saving technologies designed to enhance efficiency while meeting current and anticipated IMO environmental standards.
This is a milestone order for Wison. The company has long been known for complex offshore facilities, including floating liquefied natural gas (FLNG) units and floating production storage and offloading (FPSO) projects.
At the same time UOG, a privately-owned international maritime and investment group, continues to pursue a long-term strategy focused on fleet investments and strategic industry partnerships.
“We are pleased to establish this partnership with Wison New Energies on what we believe is an important strategic project for both organizations,” commented Georgiopoulos on the deal.
Executive director of UOG Leo J. Vrondissis added that the transaction reflected the company’s continued focus on disciplined growth through selective investments in modern tonnage and strong industrial partnerships. “Wison’s engineering depth, technical expertise, and execution capabilities made them a compelling partner for this program,” he noted.
From her side, Ms. Cheng Yuanyun, chief executive officer of Wison New Energies, commented: “We are honored to work with UOG and grateful for their recognition of, and trust in, Wison’s capabilities and delivery quality. Drawing on our experience in complex offshore projects, Wison will work to ensure the high-quality delivery of this project.”
To commemorate the transaction, Peter C. Georgiopoulos, Leo J. Vrondissis, together with their delegation, visited the Shanghai Wison Center, where they were received by Wison’s chief executive Cheng Yuanyun.
