Hamburg-based owner GEFO Shipping Group is acquiring the gas tanker activities from Unigas. The company has announced the news in a short media post mentioning that the group is acquiring the gas tanker activities of Unigas Shipping Swiss AG as part of an asset deal.
The shipowner, with a fleet of around 150 coastal and inland vessels, said the transaction is scheduled to close in June or July 2026 and involves a total of seven gas tankers.
The package includes three vessels, measuring 135 m in length and 11.45 m in width, that have already been in service for two years.
Four additional units, measuring 110 m in length and 11.45 m in width, are currently under construction and will be delivered in the first quarter of 2027.
Unibarge has confirmed the deal with GEFO Shipping Group for the transfer of seven gas tankers – three currently in operation and four newbuild units scheduled for delivery in the first quarter of 2027.
“Today we confirm an important step forward for Unigas Shipping Swiss AG and UniBarge Holding Group,” Unibarge said in a statement. “This is a strategic step that allows us to sharpen our focus and invest in our core business: reliable, safe and sustainable transport of mineral oils, fuels, chemicals and biofuels across North-West Europe,” it added.
Sven von Appen, managing director of GEFO, commented on the deal: “These modern tankers contribute to the further rejuvenation of our fleet. By acquiring these vessels, we are investing in our future flexibility and resilience in times of low water.”
Daniel Wanders, chief executive of UniBarge Holding Group, said GEFO was well positioned to integrate the vessels into its existing operations.
“GEFO has extensive expertise in the gas tanker segment and can optimally integrate the vessels into its existing fleet,” Wanders said. “With this sale, we will focus on expanding our core business in the future.”
Founded in Hamburg in 1961, GEFO specialises in chemical liquids, LPG´s, liquid gases, mineral oil and worldwide bunker trading.
