The shipowner, which holds a 30% stake in Singapore-basedgas carrier outfit Petredec, saw earnings rise by 41.2% to SAR 192.1m in thethree months to 31 March compared to the first quarter of 2012.

A general improvement in both the crude and dry cargosectors also contributed to the stronger showing, the company said in astatement.

As well as its holding in Petredec, Bahri holds an 80% stakein National Chemical Carriers which operates 24 ships and 60% of Bahri Dy Bulk's five vessels.

The