Japanese shipowner Astomos Energy has now sold a veteran VLGC at a time rates are thought to be shaping for a recovery.

The 78,000-cbm LPG carrier Gas Diana (built 2000) has gone to an undisclosed buyer for $18m, brokers say.

The owner did not reply to requests for comment on the matter.

It put the ship up for sale along with minority partner NYK Line early last month with offers due on 21 February.