Affinity Tanker Weekly, 29 May 2026

The VLCC market experienced a sluggish start for the week of 29 May 2026, characterized by extensive tonnage lists and constrained cargo volumes. According to the latest Affinity Tanker Weekly report from Affinity Research LLP, early activity across Western trade routes remained subdued, reflecting broader market lethargy. As VLCCs face limited chartering opportunities, vessel operators must navigate these challenging freight conditions while managing operational overheads across key global bunkering hubs and major crude oil export terminals.

Operational efficiency remains critical under the stringent requirements of MARPOL Annex VI, which mandates strict adherence to sulfur emission limits and energy efficiency design index standards. Compliance departments must ensure that vessel documentation aligns with SOLAS Chapter XI-2 regarding the International Ship and Port Facility Security Code. Furthermore, maintaining rigorous adherence to the International Maritime Organization’s carbon intensity indicator regulations is essential for VLCCs during periods of low market activity to avoid potential downgrades in operational ratings by classification societies like DNV or ABS.

Navigating officers must prioritize precise voyage planning and fuel optimization strategies to mitigate the impact of reduced market volumes. During these periods of low utilization, deck officers should focus on meticulous maintenance of cargo handling systems and ballast water management records to ensure full regulatory compliance. Proactive monitoring of weather routing and port arrival schedules is essential for maintaining vessel performance standards and ensuring readiness for immediate deployment when market demand eventually rebounds.