Advanced-technology vessel strengthens the fleet expansion plan
Accelerating its investment plan to reinforce its fleet, the Italian shipping group owned by the Brullo family is doubling down: less than seven months after taking delivery of an 18,000 dwt chemical/oil tanker built by Fujian Southeast Shipbuilding Co. Ltd. in Fujian, China, and christened Primo M, the company has finalized the purchase of a second, nearly identical vessel. Like the first, this new tanker is equipped with state-of-the-art technology designed to reduce both emissions and fuel consumption.
This second vessel, also built at the same Chinese shipyard in Fujian, will be deployed in the transportation of petrochemical products. Having just embarked on her maiden voyage, the new ship — renamed Ginostra M — measures 149 meters in length and has a deadweight of 18,590 tons. Upon arrival in the Mediterranean, she will enter into a time charter with one of the major international oil companies.
The Ginostra M is “dual fuel methanol ready” — a next-generation tanker that meets the most advanced technological standards. Thanks to its highly efficient propulsion system, it can reduce fuel consumption by half compared to a ship of the same size built just five years ago, while fully complying with the strictest international regulations. Thanks to these environmental performance standards, the vessel is certified to operate in Emission Control Areas (ECAs) such as Northern Europe, the U.S., and — starting May 2025 — the Mediterranean. This new tanker is also equipped with shore power connection systems, allowing it to carry out commercial operations with its main engine and generators turned off.
With a fleet of 18 vessels and strong relationships with leading operators in the sector — including long-term charter agreements — the Italian shipowning group holds a solid position among the key market players. Notably, the company continues to sail under the Italian flag despite the challenges it faces compared to other, even European, flags.
“Our group,” stated both Raffaele and Gabriele Brullo, “is now in a position to accelerate the investment plan ahead of schedule, made possible by the complete financial restructuring. The goal is to achieve a full fleet renewal within the next five years, providing a concrete response to the trust that major charterers place in our reliability.”
