TB Marine and Ektank sign for chemical tanker newbuilds

TB Marine, a German ship owner, has joined forces with Sweden’s Ektank to enhance their fleet with new chemical carriers. They have contracted for the construction of four 22,000 deadweight ton (dwt) methanol-ready vessels to be integrated into the IceChem Tankers pool. The first of these newbuilds is expected to launch in autumn 2026, with additional ships scheduled for delivery every three months until the summer of 2027.

New Ships Tailored for Efficiency

The IceChem Tankers pool, established in 2018, currently operates a fleet of 12 coated ice class 1A chemical tankers, which fall within the 15,000 to 25,000 dwt range. Both TB Marine and Ektank hold shares in this cooperative venture. Although details regarding the shipyard and pricing have not been disclosed, previous reports indicated that TB Marine has been associated with newbuilds at Ningbo Xinle Shipbuilding in China, targeting deliveries by late 2026.

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According to IceChem, the new vessels are specifically designed for enhanced efficiency in the North Atlantic trades. They aim to significantly reduce fuel consumption and lower greenhouse gas emissions compared to traditional ships. This focus on sustainability highlights the industry’s shift towards greener alternatives in maritime transport, aligning with global efforts to combat climate change.

As the demand for environmentally friendly shipping solutions increases, the addition of these methanol-ready carriers represents a strategic move for both TB Marine and Ektank, positioning them at the forefront of innovation within the chemical shipping sector.