Shell has extended its period charters of two LR3 vessels by a further year at lower rates, brokers report today. Both ships are owned by SKS Tankers of Norway.
The charter of SKS Spey (158,800 dwt, built 2007) was extended for a further 12 months at a rate of $26,500 per day. The tanker was originally fixed in March 2015 for one year at $28,500 daily, plus a profit share agreement.
SKS Saluda (159,400 dwt, built 2003) has also had its contract extended for a further year at $26,500 per day. Its existing 12-month charter to Shell commenced in April 2015 and was fixed at $27,500 daily.
AIS data shows the two tankers have mainly been employed in carrying cargo from Venezuela to the US Gulf Coast during the past three months, but have traded on major routes worldwide in the past year.
SKS Spey‘s latest update shows the vessel departed Corpus Christi, Texas, on March 20 and is laden on its way to Rotterdam. SKS Saluda is currently at anchor in Venezuela.
