DHT Holdings Moves Up Impala Delivery to July, Upgrades Two VLCCs for Trading
DHT•Two Hyundai-built VLCCs will receive proactive design upgrades to enhance trading eligibility and commercial flexibility, with DHT Impala’s delivery accelerated to late July 2026 from December. DHT Gazelle, delivered in March, will fulfill cargo commitments before a Q3 upgrade while DHT Addax covers its charter duties.
1. Proactive Design Upgrades for Newbuildings
DHT identified design upgrades for two VLCCs building at Hyundai, aimed at optimizing trading eligibility and commercial flexibility by incorporating enhancements prior to vessel delivery.
2. Revised Delivery and Upgrade Schedule
DHT Impala is now slated for late July 2026 delivery—months ahead of the original December deadline—with upgrades fully integrated; DHT Gazelle, delivered in March 2026, will complete existing cargo commitments before returning for its upgrade in Q3 2026.
3. Charter Continuity with Vessel Substitution
To maintain uninterrupted service under its long-term time charter, DHT will substitute DHT Gazelle with DHT Addax, also delivered in March 2026, during Gazelle’s upgrade period.
4. Unaffected Fleet Assets
Other newbuildings—DHT Antelope and DHT Addax delivered earlier in 2026, and DHT Oryx due August 2028—are not affected by the enhancements and require no additional work.
