Pan Ocean Expands VLCC Orders with Beihai Shipbuilding

Newcastlemax bulk carriers under construction at the same yard, totaling seven large vessels in its Beihai programme. The new VLCCs are based on Beihai’s in-house developed “Venus” design, measuring 339.5 metres in length and 60 metres in width. They are ammonia-ready and comply with IMO Tier III and EEDI Phase III environmental standards. This order reflects Pan Ocean’s strategic expansion into crude tanker operations, supported by newbuildings, second-hand VLCC acquisitions, and long-term crude transport contracts. For Beihai Shipbuilding, the repeat VLCC order signals growing acceptance of its large tanker designs among international shipowners. Traditionally a major dry bulk operator, Pan Ocean’s increasing VLCC exposure highlights a shift in fleet strategy towards the more strategically important tanker sector.