Japanese giant NYK is exploring the sale of a second VLCC in quick succession in a deal that will provide a useful price indicator for such tonnage.

NYK is marketing the 306,000-dwt Takamine (built 2004) for sale in what marks the latest step in the renewal of the Japanese controlled VLCC fleet.

While brokers note some pressure on the value of such assets given the weak freight market, NYK will be looking to its last sale in February as a reason for optimism.