Newbuilding market chatter is alive with talk that the Greek shipowner has agreed contracts on VLCCs priced in region of $95m-$98m. Some were quoting sub $95m figures on the price.

The order, which is not yet fully signed, is said to include an option for a further two ships.

The firm vessels are all for delivery dates in 2016.

Brokers were excited about the low prices on the newbuildings and said recent yard quotations for VLCC tonnage have been in the $99m-$100m range.

But