New York-listed Teekay Tankers had been considered favourite to win the race for the ships, in a field that included Stena and Tsakos Energy Navigation.

Kevin Mackay, chief executive of Teekay Tankers, said in a statement: "The acquisition of this high quality, on-the-water fleet is strategically important for Teekay Tankers and provides significant commercial and financial benefits.

"Teekay Tankers will become one of the largest owners of modern suezmax tankers at the right point in the tanker market cycle when positive market fundamentals support continued strength in spot tanker rates.

"Including