Shipbuilders from Ferus Smit have been entrusted with putting together two product tankers for Erik Thun Group's Thun Tankers.

Each Ice Class 1A, 89-by-13.35-metre vessel will offer 5,000 m³ of cargo capacity. The newbuilds are scheduled for delivery in 2028-29.

"AccessMAX combines Lake Vänern-compliant dimensions with shallow-draft capability and a cargo intake increase of approximately 10% compared to previous generations of product tankers designed for similar trade. The ordered vessels will enable increased, efficient, and reliable cargo-flow into smaller, niche ports while retaining full flexibility for broader, seaborne Northwest European operations," reads a press brief from the Erik Thun Group.

The company's Managing Director, Johan Källsson, added, "AccessMAX is a practical step for our customers and ports. By combining shallow-draft capability with the increased intake, we can serve Lake Vänern and similar constrained waterways reliably while maintaining the efficiency and care that define our family company."

Joakim Lund, Chief Commercial Officer, Thun Tankers, also commented, "These vessels will be engineered for the realities of our trade, with restricted approaches, tight locks, and future cargo needs. AccessMAX's design will enable businesses situated in restricted ports to develop and grow in a sustainable manner."

Photo: Erik Thun Group