HTM Takes Delivery of First Ultra-Spec Hybrid-Ready Tanker as Fleet Renewal Program Advances

Global tanker operator Hercules Tanker Management (HTM) has received the first vessel in its new Ultra-Spec Series of hybrid-ready bunker and chemical tankers. The 7,700 DWT vessel, HTM Harriet, was delivered in October 2025 by Jiangmen Hangtong Shipyard in China and has since departed Southeast Asia on its maiden voyage carrying a full load of B100 biofuel.

The voyage marks the first time HTM has deployed a vessel with a 100% renewable fuel cargo, aligning with the company’s strategy to modernise its fleet and expand its ability to handle alternative marine fuels.

Part of a 10-Vessel Fleet Renewal Programme

The HTM Harriet is the first of up to ten vessels planned under HTM’s renewal programme announced in 2024. The initiative includes six firm orders with options for four more, all co-developed with Peninsula Petroleum. Deliveries are scheduled every two months through 2027.

The Ultra-Spec Series is designed to replace older tankers with more efficient, lower-emission units that meet emerging compliance requirements including IMO 2030 and FuelEU Maritime.

Design Features for Lower Emissions and Fuel Flexibility

Each Ultra-Spec vessel is built to IMO II chemical tanker standards and includes several technical features intended to reduce emissions and improve operational efficiency:

• Diesel-electric propulsion for reduced fuel burn
• Battery-ready systems to support hybrid operations in the future
• Hydrodynamically optimised hull for lower drag
• Twin-engine configuration with Schottel propulsion to support manoeuvrability during STS operations
• Capability to handle multiple fuel types, including B100 biofuel and methanol

HTM estimates that these design improvements will deliver up to 20% lower emissions compared with conventional bunker tankers.

Supporting a Diversifying Marine Fuels Market

The Ultra-Spec vessels are engineered to support a broad range of fuel logistics. They are capable of transporting traditional bunkers, advanced biofuels and methanol, enabling bunker suppliers to service fleets adopting alternative fuel pathways.

The maiden voyage of the HTM Harriet carrying B100 biofuel is intended to demonstrate operational readiness for renewable fuel handling and aligns with HTM’s target of achieving 10% alternative fuel use by 2030.

“This launch marks the beginning of a transformative journey for our fleet and for the industry,” said Hercules Tanker Management (HTM). “Our 10 hybrid-ready, 7,700 DWT vessels are designed for global operations, capable of transporting and supplying all grades of conventional bunkers, up to B100 and methanol.”

Partnership with Peninsula Petroleum

A key part of the programme is HTM’s collaboration with Peninsula Petroleum, which has an expanding portfolio in alternative marine fuels. The two companies aim to build an integrated bunkering and logistics network supporting both current and emerging fuels across global trade routes.

Peninsula’s supply capabilities in LNG, methanol and biofuels complement the Ultra-Spec fleet’s hybrid-ready design, supporting broader decarbonisation efforts across bunker supply chains.

Positioning for the Marine Energy Transition

As tanker operators adapt to regulatory and market changes, hybrid-ready vessels capable of handling renewable fuels are increasingly seen as transitional assets. HTM’s Ultra-Spec Series is positioned to operate within tightening emissions frameworks while providing flexibility for future fuel upgrades.

The launch of the HTM Harriet marks the operational start of the programme and signals HTM’s intention to anchor its bunker and chemical logistics operations around lower-emission technologies.