Maersk orders new MR vessels

Hanne B. Sørensen, CEO, Maersk Tankers, said: “We are focusing our investments on the product segments, and in order to stay attractive in this market, we gradually need to renew our fleet. Our MR fleet is our oldest, which is why we will begin the renewal there.”

By gradually updating the tanker fleet, Maersk is maintaining what it calls a suitable average age of the fleet in line with its plan for investment.

Maersk declined to confirm how much the order was worth but did say that the vessels have latest generation electronically controlled main engines and optimised hull lines, as well as other energy saving features.

They will weigh in at 50,000 DWT and will be powered by MAN B&W 6G60ME-B9.3 engines.

MAN B&W two-stroke engines from MAN Diesel & Turbo are a favourite for powering carriers, tankers and container vessels of all capacities.

By nature, low speed engines lend themselves to direct coupling of the propeller, without reduction gear making them high in efficiency and reliability with low maintenance costs.

The order includes an option for a further two vessels and Maersk expects delivery of the first four vessels in 2016.