Maersk Line, Limited Wins Ice-Strengthened Tanker Time Charter From MSC

Maersk Line, Limited (MLL) has been awarded a long-term time charter of an ice-strengthened tanker to support the U.S. Navy’s Military Sealift Command (MSC). The U.S. flag vessel will be able to deliver fuel worldwide and is expected to serve the research center at McMurdo Station, Antarctica and Thule Air Base, Greenland.

The award will add a fourth vessel to MLL’s fleet of modern U.S. flag tankers, and it offers MLL another opportunity to serve a longstanding customer. MLL began supporting MSC in 1983, and since then we have extended our ship management, technical and chartering services across the U.S. government.

“We are pleased that MSC has selected MLL to meet its requirement for an ice strengthened tanker,” said Dave Harriss, director of Ship Management & Chartering. “Our success is derived from a focus on quality, competitive pricing, technical expertise, safety culture, and commitment to exceed customer expectations. MLL’s experience managing and operating over 90 vessels of various types can give MSC confidence in our ability to complete the mission, and we are pleased to have the opportunity to support MSC on this unique service.”

The time charter will begin in November 2011, and it consists of a one-year base with four options. The charter will last 59 months if all options are exercised. The total contract value, including all options and excluding reimbursable expenses, is $71.5 million.

MLL is a leading provider of ship management, marine engineering, and chartering services. As a ship owner, vessel operations and maintenance are core competencies. Our vessel experience includes container ships, tankers, roll-on/rolloff ships, large government supply ships, and various special mission vessels. MLL applies its engineering expertise to improve the lifecycle strategies of marine assets and provide innovative designs for new and repurposed vessels. Our record of success has made MLL the largest U.S. shipping company engaged in international trade and a major charterer and contract operator for the U.S. government.

Source: Maersk Line, Limited