Stena Bulk enters into new partnership in the operation of existing IMOIIMAX tankers

Leading tanker shipping company Stena Bulk has today announced it has entered into a new partnership with a prominent Gulf Co-operation Council investment institution in the operation of an undisclosed number of Stena Bulk's existing IMOIIMAX tankers.

The venture, established in collaboration with Tufton Investment Management in London, will open further institutional investment opportunities for both partners.

Originally built between 2015 and 2018, Stena Bulk's IMOIIMAX tankers are designed to carry IMO 2 and 3 cargoes as well as clean and dirty products, ensuring maximum cargo flexibility. The vessels are all equipped with eighteen cargo tanks of a max 3,000 m³ capacity as well as a nitrogen based inert gas system.

The design was developed by Stena Bulk and Stena Teknik together with the Chinese shipyard GSI. After several years in operation, the MR tankers have become known for their reliable and efficient design. Stena Bulk designed the IMOIIMAX tankers to have a minimised environmental footprint and optimised performance. 

Speaking on the new joint venture, Erik Hånell, President & CEO of Stena Bulk, said:

"We look forward to working closely with our partners to continue to maximise the potential of our IMOIIMAX tankers, exploring new horizons, expanding our market reach, and creating value for our customers. By working closely together over the coming years I know that we will continue to push new boundaries for MR tanker performance."

Andrew Hampson, CEO of Tufton Investment Management Limited, commented:

"We are delighted to have facilitated this partnership between our long established GCC institutional clients and a company of the standing of Stena Bulk. We believe the excellence of Stena Bulk's technical and operational capabilities represent an industry benchmark and we look forward to the success of the newly established partnership in the coming years."