Eastern Pacific Shipping (EPS) has made a strategic return to the very large crude carrier (VLCC) segment, placing an order for two 306,000 dwt tankers at China’s Hengli Shipbuilding. Industry sources indicate the Singapore-based shipowner is scheduled to take delivery of the vessels in the fourth quarter of 2027.
The move marks EPS’s first VLCC activity in seven years, following the scrapping of the 2000-built Maritime Jewel in 2018. Since then, the company had shifted its fleet strategy toward aframax and suezmax crude tankers and later expanded into MR product carriers.
Hengli Shipbuilding, which has emerged as one of the world’s most active VLCC builders this year, adds the EPS deal to what is already a strong orderbook. Data shows the yard has secured more than 20 VLCC newbuilding contracts year to date, with European buyers dominating the tally.
EPS continues to deepen its relationship with the Chinese yard. The latest VLCC order follows a July contract for two plus two LNG dual-fuel suezmaxes. Beyond tankers, the Idan Ofer-led company has also selected Hengli for growth in other sectors, including four firm 6,000 teu containerships with options for four additional units slated for delivery in 2027–2028.
The fresh VLCC order underscores EPS’s renewed long-term commitment to the crude tanker market and further strengthens its position as one of the industry’s most active and diversified owners.