Zhoushan strengthens bunkering fleet with launch of “Dong Fang Zhao Yang 2”
- Published
by Admin
The Dong Fang Zhao Yang 2, a newly built bunkering vessel, was successfully launched on Wednesday (22 October) at Zhoushan Hetai Ship Repair Yard Co Ltd, marking a milestone in the region’s drive to expand its bonded marine fuel operations.
The launch ceremony for the 4,300 mt capacity newbuilding brought together representatives from Sinopec Fuel Oil Sales Co Ltd, Zhoushan Communications Investment Group Co Ltd, and its subsidiary Zhoushan Orient International Maritime Service, who jointly witnessed the successful launch.
Constructed by Zhoushan Hetai Shipbuilding & Repair Co Ltd beginning in December 2024, the Dong Fang Zhao Yang 2 is the second “Zhoushan Ship Type” version 2.0 bunkering ship ordered by Zhoushan Communications Investment Group.
As the sister ship to Dong Fang Zhao Yang, it builds on its advanced design concept with upgraded equipment and improved features to meet the growing demand for bunkering operations.
Compared to the 1.0 version, Dong Fang Zhao Yang underwent six major upgrades including being equipped with twin engines, twin propellers and twin rudders to improve the ship’s manoeuvrability and rotation, and significantly improves the ship’s berthing capability.
The ship is also capable of loading about 40 metric tonnes of lube oil so it can also supply lube oil as well as bunker fuel to other ships, upgrading it to a “one ship with multiple functions”. The safety of bunkering operations during high sea conditions has also been improved with its equipped anchor winch.
“The successful launch of Dong Fang Zhao Yang 2 marks the further expansion of the bunkering fleet of Zhoushan Communications Investment Group, playing a key role in Zhoushan’s vision of becoming an international bunkering hub,” the company said.
The vessel will undergo mooring and sea trials before delivery, which is expected in December 2025. It is scheduled to enter service by the end of the year.
“Looking ahead, Zhoushan Communications Investment Group plans to expand its bunkering fleet and improve energy efficiency of ship operations, aiming to establish a diversified service system covering bonded, alternative, and domestic marine fuel distribution — laying a stronger foundation for Zhoushan’s growth as a world-class bunkering centre,” the company added.
Related: China launches version 2.0 of “Zhoushan ship type” bunkering vessel
Related: China: First upgraded Zhoushan bunkering vessel completes inaugural refuelling op
Photo credit: Zhoushan Communications Investment Group
Published: 27 October, 2025
Related Topics:
