IceChem Tankers Expands Fleet With Order For Four 22,000 DWT Chemical Tankers

IceChem Tankers has announced a major fleet expansion through its partners TB Marine and Ektank, who have signed contracts for the construction of four 22,000 DWT chemical tankers. With deliveries scheduled between late 2026 and mid-2027, these vessels will strengthen the company’s presence in the North Atlantic Basin and enhance its efficiency and sustainability profile.

Advanced Vessel Design for Efficiency and Sustainability

The new chemical tankers are built to 1A ice class standards, enabling safe operations in challenging environments such as the North Atlantic Basin and the Great Lakes region. Each vessel will be highly fuel-efficient, boasting the lowest possible greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions among conventional ships.

Importantly, they are designed to be green methanol-ready, ensuring compliance with future fuel transition requirements once a viable bunkering network is established.

In terms of capacity, the vessels can load up to 15,000 tons under navigational draft conditions in the Great Lakes, offering improved economies of scale and competitive transport solutions for IceChem’s customers.

Strategic Partnerships and Fleet Expansion

This order marks another step in IceChem Tankers’ ongoing fleet growth and strategic partnerships. In November 2024, the company signed multi-year time charter agreements for two new 19,700 DWT stainless steel chemical tankers MH Future and MH Shogun.

Earlier, in June 2023, IceChem strengthened its position through a partnership with Swedish shipowner Ektank, which also became a shareholder. This collaboration brought together the fleets of both companies, enhancing operational synergies and service quality in chemical transportation.

Ektank’s expertise in North-West Europe and Baltic Sea routes complements IceChem’s operations across transatlantic and European CPP trade, reinforcing the company’s premium service offering and commitment to safety.

With the addition of four 22,000 DWT chemical tankers and ongoing partnerships, IceChem Tankers is positioning itself as a key player in sustainable and efficient chemical transportation.

The company’s investment in fuel-efficient, methanol-ready vessels underscores its commitment to reducing emissions while ensuring reliable cargo throughput across critical trade routes. This fleet expansion strengthens its competitive edge and supports long-term growth in the global chemical shipping sector.