Charting a Greener Future: Al Seer Marine’s Bold Move with Eco-Friendly Tankers

In a world increasingly focused on sustainability, Al Seer Marine is making waves with its latest fleet expansion. The Abu Dhabi-based maritime giant, a subsidiary of International Holding Company, has just taken delivery of two cutting-edge, clean-fuel-ready tankers—Tabit and Rigel. These vessels, the final additions to a six-ship order from South Korea’s K Shipbuilding (KSB), are set to redefine eco-friendly shipping.

Engineering for a Greener Tomorrow

Tabit and Rigel aren’t your average tankers. With deadweight tonnages of 49,853 and 49,781 tons respectively, these medium-range (MR) vessels are designed for global operations, capable of carrying up to six segregated grades of cargo. But what truly sets them apart is their clean-fuel readiness. Both tankers can run on liquefied natural gas (LNG), ammonia, and methanol, making them versatile players in the push for sustainable shipping.

To further reduce their environmental footprint, the vessels are equipped with exhaust gas cleaning systems (EGCS), commonly known as scrubbers. This ensures compliance with stringent global environmental regulations while meeting the growing demand for eco-conscious petroleum and chemical transport. It’s a win-win for both the planet and the industry.

Big Deals and Bigger Ambitions

With their delivery on March 3, 2025, Tabit and Rigel are already making headlines for their lucrative charter agreements. Tabit has secured a five-year, AED 170 million ($46 million) contract with South Korean shipping powerhouse HMM, while Rigel is set to join Global Horizon Shipping Limited in a deal worth AED 157 million ($42.8 million). Combined with earlier charters, the total value of all six vessels now stands at an impressive AED 957 million ($260.4 million).

This expansion was made possible through a strategic partnership with BOCOM Financial Leasing, a subsidiary of the Bank of Communications, which invested AED 257.2 million (approximately $70 million) in the project. This marks the third collaboration between Al Seer Marine and BOCOM Leasing, bringing their total investment commitment to a staggering AED 845.2 million ($230 million).

A Fleet Built for the Future

With the addition of Tabit and Rigel, Al Seer Marine’s operational fleet now boasts 16 vessels, with three more under construction. The company’s total capacity exceeds 1.5 million deadweight tons, encompassing a diverse range of ships, including LPG tankers, crude and product tankers, very large crude carriers (VLCCs), and bulkers.

But Al Seer Marine isn’t stopping there. Through its joint venture with Dubai-based BGN Int DMCC, the company owns two very large gas carriers (VLGCs) and is actively expanding its presence in the gas transport sector. Three newbuild VLGCs, each exceeding 51,000 deadweight tons, are slated for delivery by 2026, further solidifying Al Seer Marine’s position as a leader in sustainable maritime transport.