German tanker/bulk carrier operator John T. Essberger announced it has placed an order with China Merchants Industry Yangzhou Dingheng for 2+2+2 7,900 DWT duplex stainless steel chemical tankers. The first two vessels are scheduled to begin delivery in August 2028.
This chemical tanker measures 119.9 meters in length overall, 18 meters in beam, with a maximum draft of 6.85 meters and a deadweight capacity of 7,900 tons. It complies with the 1A ice class standard.
This new fleet is part of John T. Essberger’s vessel renewal program. Designed to the highest standards, the vessels are specifically engineered for European coastal chemical transportation needs and customized for evolving requirements, reinforcing the company’s commitment to sustainability and operational excellence.
It is understood that this order for up to six new vessels is not the first collaboration between John T. Essberger and China Merchants Industry Yangzhou Dingheng. The two parties previously signed a contract in 2021 for 4+4 stainless steel chemical tankers with a deadweight of 6,600 tons. John T. Essberger initiated its fleet renewal program through this batch of newbuildings.
To expand its fleet and drive fleet renewal, John T. Essberger began planning as early as 2024 to order up to 10 stainless steel chemical tankers. The company engaged in discussions with shipyards in China, South Korea, Japan, and Turkey, with disclosed specifications for the newbuilds ranging from 7,500 to 13,000 deadweight tons.
In addition to up to six new vessels from China Merchants Industry Yangzhou Dingheng, John T. Essberger has also placed orders for four 13,000 DWT duplex stainless steel chemical tankers with Nantong Rainbow Offshore & Engineering Equipment (ROC). These orders were announced in September 2024 (two vessels) and March 2025 (two vessels, with options), with two additional options available.
According to information released by the ROC, this chemical tanker was designed by Sweden’s FKAB. It has an overall length of 132 meters, a beam of 21.8 meters, a design draft of 8.5 meters, and a service speed of 12.5 knots. The vessel meets Class 1A ice classification standards and complies with Tier III emission regulations, featuring a methanol-ready design.
It is reported that John T. Essberger’s chemical tanker fleet is operated by E&S Tankers, a joint venture established by the company and its partner Stolt Tankers. The venture currently manages nearly 50 stainless steel chemical tankers ranging from 2,800 to 11,300 deadweight tons.