Optima · Core Broking · Since 1981

Tanker Projects

Specialist tanker brokerage and project management. From initial concept through yard selection, design review, construction supervision, and delivery.

Optima's Tanker Projects division is a specialist team focused exclusively on the tanker segment. We combine deep technical knowledge of tanker design, construction, and operations with Optima's established shipyard relationships and brokerage infrastructure.

Our team manages tanker projects across the full spectrum -- from VLCC crude carriers to small coastal chemical tankers. We handle newbuilding supervision, technical specification development, design review, yard selection, contract negotiation, and construction oversight through to delivery and sea trials.

Whether you are ordering a single vessel or a series of ten, our project management approach ensures technical compliance, schedule adherence, and cost control at every stage.

Single VLCC crude oil tanker at sea in cool pre-dawn light, navy hull riding low in the water, white superstructure aft
The weight underway

Crude and clean product, on the right ship at the right time.

VLCC · Cool pre-dawn

Key Capabilities

TECHNICAL SPECIFICATION DEVELOPMENT

We draft and review technical specifications tailored to the owner's operational requirements, regulatory compliance needs, and commercial objectives. Specifications cover hull design, cargo systems, propulsion, navigation, and accommodation.

DESIGN REVIEW

Independent review of yard-proposed designs against owner specifications, classification society rules, flag state requirements, and industry best practices. We identify gaps, risks, and optimization opportunities before construction begins.

YARD SELECTION & NEGOTIATION

Evaluation of candidate shipyards based on capacity, track record, technical capability, pricing, delivery schedule, and financial stability. We manage the tender process, evaluate proposals, and negotiate contract terms.

NEWBUILDING SUPERVISION

On-site supervision throughout construction. Our supervisors monitor steel cutting, block assembly, outfitting, tank testing, system commissioning, and sea trials. Regular progress reporting to the owner with photographic documentation.

CONTRACT MANAGEMENT

Review and negotiation of shipbuilding contracts including payment milestones, specification annexes, change order procedures, liquidated damages, warranty terms, and dispute resolution mechanisms.

DELIVERY & POST-DELIVERY SUPPORT

Attendance at sea trials, delivery documentation review, protocol signing, and warranty period management. We ensure a clean handover and remain available for post-delivery technical queries.

Heavy yellow chiksan loading arm coupling connecting to a tanker manifold at a refinery jetty, brushed-steel valves, cool blue twilight
The transfer point

Every coupling counts, at both ends of the voyage.

Loading arm · Jetty
View from a tanker bridge wing at night across dark water toward a distant oil terminal, cool LED port lights glowing against cobalt sky
The watch stays awake

Forty years of tanker time, without a missed berth.

Bridge wing · Terminal watch
Brushed-steel manifold valve and pressure gauge on a tanker deck under bright midday sun, deep navy painted deck around them
Small parts, big cargo

The safety of a tanker lives in the valves.

Manifold gauge · Daylight
Aerial at blue hour of multiple tankers anchored in geometric formation off a major shipping strait, distant terminal lights on the far shore
The chokepoint at rest

Tanker projects placed where the global supply waits.

Anchored fleet · Blue hour

Frequently Asked Questions

What size of tanker project does Optima handle?

We manage tanker projects across the full size spectrum, from small coastal chemical tankers of a few thousand deadweight tonnes to VLCCs above 300,000 DWT. Our team has direct experience with all major tanker sub-types including crude, product, chemical, and gas carriers.

Do you provide on-site supervision at the shipyard?

Yes. For every newbuilding project, we assign dedicated on-site supervisors who are present at the yard throughout the construction period. They monitor build quality, attend classification surveys, manage change orders, and provide the owner with weekly progress reports including photographic documentation.

Which shipyards does Optima work with for tanker projects?

We maintain relationships with major shipyards across South Korea, China, Japan, and Turkey. Yard selection is project-specific and based on the vessel type, budget, delivery schedule, and the owner's preferences. We evaluate each yard on its recent track record, available capacity, and financial condition.

Can Optima help with the technical specification if we are at an early stage?

Absolutely. Many of our projects start at the concept stage. We work with owners to define operational requirements, draft technical specifications, evaluate design alternatives, and produce a comprehensive project brief before approaching yards. This front-end work is critical to achieving the right outcome.

How does your fee structure work for tanker project management?

Fee structures are agreed on a project basis and vary depending on scope, vessel type, and duration. We offer fixed-fee, milestone-based, and hybrid arrangements. Contact our tanker division to discuss your specific project requirements and we will provide a detailed proposal.

Discuss Your Tanker Project

Our specialist tanker division is ready to support your next project. Contact us to discuss requirements, timelines, and how we can help.

Contact Tanker Division