Hercules Tanker Management (HTM) has announced that it will start receiving the first of four new tankers in the second quarter of 2025. The vessels are scheduled to be delivered at three-month intervals and time-chartered to bunker supplier Peninsula.

HTM commissioned the 7,700-dwt newbuild IMO II chemical tankers from the Jiangmen Hangtong Shipyard in China. The vessels will be part of Peninsula's fleet modernisation programme, described by the marine fuel seller as "ultra-spec", given their ability to supply methanol as well as 100% biofuel.

Further specs include diesel-electric (and battery-ready) power units, said to reduce emissions by around 20% compared to other conventional product tankers, and a twin engine with Schottel propulsion, designed to significantly improve manoeuvrability and safety during STS or loading operations.

The near-term launch of methanol-ready tonnage is set to help Peninsula service the expected growth in the global methanol-powered fleet. HTM noted that its "foresight" in recognising this predicted rise in demand was particularly relevant given the continued lack of shipyard slots.

John A. Bassadone, Founder and CEO of both Peninsula and Hercules Tanker Management, commented: "The partnership between HTM and Peninsula allows us to build ships which cater for customer needs, thus de-risking construction whilst maintaining full flexibility. This model ensures our assets optimise efficiency and remain relevant. It was perhaps perceived as a risk when HTM was first to market with these orders over two years ago, but we always had the confidence, driven by Peninsula's global customer reach, that these ships have an important future role to play in alternative fuel supply."