Semi-submersible heavylift specialist ZPMC Shipping has bought an aframax tanker for conversion, and sources close to the company indicate that it remains a buyer in the improving semi-sub market.
The tanker is Arab Maritime Petroleum Transport Co (AMPTC)'s Hyundai-built 105,800-dwt Zirku (built 2003). UK brokers said it fetched $10.3m, in line with expectations.
Egypt and Kuwait-based AMPTC did not respond to requests for comments, but a ZPMC official confirmed the deal and said the ship will go into operation as Zhen Hua 35 after the conversion.
