Volare Shipping Expands VLCC Fleet with $210 Million Trafigura-Linked Newbuild Acquisition

The global crude tanker market continues to attract investment in modern, fuel-efficient tonnage, with Volare Shipping agreeing to acquire a new very large crude carrier (VLCC) for $210 million.

The transaction strengthens Volare's position in the crude oil transportation sector and forms part of a wider fleet expansion programme that will see the company add several newbuild vessels over the next two years.

Main Article

Singapore-incorporated tanker owner Volare Shipping has agreed to acquire a modern, scrubber-fitted eco-design VLCC from an affiliate of Trafigura Maritime Logistics for $210 million.

The seller is affiliated with Trafigura, which is also Volare's indirect majority shareholder.

The vessel, named M.T. Veni Vidi Vici, is currently undergoing sea trials at China's Hengli shipyard. Delivery is scheduled for November 20, 2026, with the acquisition expected to be completed during November, subject to financing arrangements and customary closing conditions.

Modern technology and fuel efficiency

The newbuild is equipped with an exhaust gas scrubber system and an eco-design configuration.

These features are commercially important in today's tanker market, where owners must balance fuel consumption, environmental compliance and operating costs.

The scrubber system is designed to remove sulphur oxides from vessel exhaust gases, allowing the ship to comply with applicable sulphur emission requirements when operating under the relevant regulatory conditions.

Its eco-design characteristics are also intended to support more efficient vessel operations, an important consideration for large crude carriers consuming substantial quantities of marine fuel.

For tanker owners, investments in modern tonnage can provide operational advantages over older vessels, particularly as charterers increasingly consider vessel efficiency and environmental performance when selecting ships.

Fleet expansion accelerates

The acquisition will increase Volare's operating VLCC fleet to seven vessels following delivery.

However, the company's expansion programme extends considerably further.

Volare currently operates six VLCCs, with another eight newbuild vessels scheduled for delivery during 2027 and 2028.

This planned fleet growth signals a long-term commitment to the large crude tanker segment.

The company is positioning itself to increase its transportation capacity while building a fleet based on modern vessel designs.

Financing and commercial arrangements

Volare intends to fund the $210 million acquisition through a combination of existing cash resources and long-term lease financing.

The transaction's financial adviser is Fearnley Securities, part of the Astrup Fearnley Group, which has also provided a fairness opinion in connection with the deal.

Volare is incorporated in Singapore and listed on Euronext Growth Oslo.

An important feature of its operating structure is its commercial relationship with Trafigura, which manages the company's fleet commercially.

This relationship connects Volare's vessel ownership strategy with an established international commodities trading and maritime logistics network.

Why this matters

• For tanker owners: The $210 million transaction reflects continued investment in modern VLCC tonnage and confidence in the long-term importance of crude oil transportation.
• For charterers: Modern eco-design vessels with scrubber technology offer additional flexibility in managing fuel costs and applicable sulphur emission requirements.
• For shipbuilders: Continued VLCC orders and deliveries demonstrate demand for large crude carriers, particularly from owners pursuing fleet renewal and expansion.
• For seafarers: Newbuild VLCCs introduce modern propulsion, emissions-control and monitoring systems, increasing the importance of technical training and familiarity with advanced vessel machinery.

Conclusion

Volare Shipping's latest acquisition strengthens its operating fleet while supporting an ambitious expansion programme through 2028.

With seven VLCCs expected in operation following delivery and eight additional newbuilds scheduled, the company is positioning itself for a larger role in the international crude oil transportation market.