Commodity trading giant Trafigura has established a new dedicated tanker company, Volare Shipping, to own and operate a fleet of very large crude carriers (VLCCs), according to Ship & Bunker.
The fleet currently consists of six VLCCs, with an additional eight vessels on order for delivery between 2026 and 2028, Trafigura said in an emailed statement reported by Ship & Bunker on Monday.
Fundraising and Listing Plans
According to Ship & Bunker, Volare Shipping intends to raise approximately $500 million through a private placement ahead of a planned listing on Euronext Growth Oslo. Trading in the company’s shares is expected to begin around October 5, subject to regulatory approval and completion of the placement process.
Trafigura will retain its position as majority shareholder in the new venture, while the trading house’s shipping division will take on commercial management responsibilities for the fleet, Ship & Bunker reports.
Fleet Specifications
Once all newbuild vessels have been delivered, Volare Shipping will operate a fleet of 14 VLCCs with an average age of roughly three years, according to the report. Ship & Bunker notes that these tankers are larger than standard vessels in their class and are equipped with additional tank coating and heating systems.
The vessels also feature dual-fuel capability and are ammonia-ready, positioning the fleet to accommodate alternative marine fuels as the shipping industry continues its transition toward lower-emission energy sources.
Does This Matter to You?
The launch of Volare Shipping signals continued investment by a major commodity trader in dedicated, modern tanker capacity. For those tracking VLCC fleet supply, newbuild deliveries between 2026 and 2028 could influence tonnage availability in the crude tanker segment during that period.
The ammonia-ready and dual-fuel specifications mentioned by Trafigura may also be of interest to those monitoring the pace of alternative fuel adoption among large tanker fleets, as such technical features can affect future bunkering and fuel infrastructure planning. Beyond these fleet-level details, the source material does not specify further operational or market impacts, so any broader implications for freight rates, chartering, or fuel demand remain unclear at this stage.
Gulf Bunkering does not provide operational or security guidance. This article is for informational purposes only. Operators should consult flag state authorities, P&I clubs, and relevant advisories for decisions relating to transit planning.
Sources: Ship & Bunker
