Scorpio Tankers is reportedly in talks to replace three product carriers that are believed to have been sold for $53m.
Market sources say New York-listed Scorpio is looking to charter-in the 46,700-dwt Pacific Duchess (built 2009) and 52,600-dwt Targale (built 2007) for a year.
Brokers also believe the owner intends to exercise the first of three options to add another 52,000-dwt tanker to a series on order at Hyundai Mipo Dockyard in South Korea with delivery expected in the first half of 2013 at a price of around $37m.
Sources say larger, newer, fuel-efficient vessels are desirable in today’s market as they are more competitive than smaller, older ships and operating costs are essentially the same.