Fukuoka, Japan | January 6, 2016 – Global chemical tanker leader Odfjell has reached a major milestone in its ambitious fleet expansion strategy with the naming and launching of the Bow Fraternity at the Fukuoka Shipyard.
The vessel is the first of ten newbuilds scheduled to enter the Odfjell fleet in 2026. This aggressive growth phase will add a staggering 280,000 dwt of capacity and more than 240 cargo tanks to the company’s global network, enough volume to fill 110 Olympic-sized swimming pools.
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A Pillar of the “Japan 26” Strategy
The Bow Fraternity is a 26,000 dwt stainless steel chemical tanker, marking the 21st vessel in this specific size category for Odfjell. The ship represents a deepening of Odfjell’s long-standing partnership with Japanese tonnage providers and shipbuilders, known for their high technical standards and fuel-efficient designs.
Speaking at the ceremony in Japan, Odfjell CFO Terje Iversen highlighted the strategic weight of the new series:
“This event marks a significant milestone in Odfjell’s longstanding partnership with Japanese tonnage partners and the Fukuoka Shipyard. Our partnership is built not only on business objectives, but on shared values, respect, integrity, and a commitment to excellence.”
Technical & Environmental Excellence
The 2026 newbuild series is designed to meet the most stringent environmental regulations. For the bunkering and marine fuel industry, these vessels are a key focus due to their high energy efficiency and potential for biofuel integration.
| Feature | Specification |
| Vessel Name | Bow Fraternity |
| Deadweight (DWT) | 26,000 |
| Cargo Tanks | Stainless Steel (Advanced Segregation) |
| Delivery Date | Early 2026 |
| Yard | Fukuoka Shipyard, Japan |
By investing in modern, high-specification tonnage, Odfjell aims to further reduce its carbon intensity, an area where the company has already surpassed the IMO 2030 targets.
Deep-Sea Operational Flexibility
The addition of the Bow Fraternity and its nine upcoming sister ships will significantly enhance Odfjell’s operational flexibility. These “supersegregators” allow for the simultaneous transport of multiple specialized liquid chemicals, reducing port turnaround times and optimizing fuel consumption across major deep-sea trade lanes.
The Bow Fraternity is expected to begin commercial operations in early 2026, joining a fleet that is increasingly moving toward decarbonization through data-driven voyage optimization and the use of sustainable marine fuels.
About Odfjell
Established in 1914 and headquartered in Bergen, Norway, Odfjell is a global market leader in the seaborne transportation and storage of chemicals and other specialized bulk liquids. Operating a highly sophisticated fleet of approximately 70 vessels and four terminals worldwide, Odfjell pioneered the chemical tanker trade and is committed to safe, efficient, and sustainable logistics.
Source: Odfjell