Hafnia and Socatra Take Delivery of Final Dual-Fuel Methanol MR Tanker
Singapore-based tanker owner Hafnia and its joint venture partner, French shipowner Socatra, have taken delivery of their fourth and final dual-fuel methanol medium-range (MR) tanker constructed in China.
The latest addition to Hafnia and Socatra’s IMO II MR fleet, Ecomar Gironde, is part of the joint venture’s four-vessel order placed in August 2023.
Built at Guangzhou Shipyard International
Like its sister vessels, the 49,800 dwt newbuild was constructed at Guangzhou Shipyard International (GSI) in China. The vessel will be deployed on a multi-year charter to French energy major TotalEnergies.
Naming Ceremony Held in Guangzhou
The naming ceremony for Ecomar Gironde took place at the GSI Shipyard in Guangzhou on January 27. The event was attended by representatives from Hafnia, Socatra, GSI, TotalEnergies, Bureau Veritas, BRS, and other key stakeholders.
Ralph Juhl, EVP Head of Technical at Hafnia, commented:
“This vessel reflects a pragmatic approach to the energy transition—designed to operate efficiently today while being prepared for the fuels of tomorrow. Delivering complex vessels like this depends on long-standing partnerships, trust, and close cooperation across all parties involved.”
Timeline of the Four-Vessel Series
The first two tankers in this series, Ecomar Gascogne and Ecomar Guyenne, were delivered in January and May 2025, respectively. The third vessel, Ecomar Garonne, was handed over in August 2025.
Supporting the Energy Transition
As dual-fuel vessels, these ships can operate on both conventional fuel and methanol. The dual-fuel methanol tanker quartet is expected to mark an important step in Hafnia’s decarbonization journey, enabling the option to use methanol to reduce emissions over time.
