James Fisher, a global provider of unique marine solutions, has marked a major construction milestone in the build of its new chemical tankers, with the laying of the keel for the first vessel, Orca Fisher, at the China Merchants Industry Yangzhou Dingheng Shipyard (YZDH) in late May.
It marks the next phase in a multi-year programme to deliver more efficient, lower-carbon vessels aligned with the company’s 2050 net-zero commitment. The project builds on strong partnerships with YZDH, Bureau Veritas, and Alpha Marine, and follows the successful delivery of Sir John Fisher and Lady Maria Fisher in 2023.
James Fisher stated in a press release that Orca Fisher is the first of four next-generation vessels, known as the Sealife class, introduced as part of the company’s Fleet of the Future. This is a long-term programme to modernize its tankships fleet with more efficient, lower-carbon vessels that support the use of alternative fuel propulsion.
Decarbonizing the Fleet
Michael Arkley, Product Line Director (Tankships) at James Fisher, said this milestone marks more than the start of a hull. “It’s a continuation of our ongoing and unwavering commitment to decarbonize the fleet and strengthen operational performance for our customers,” he highlighted. “It also reflects the depth of collaboration and trust we’ve built with YZDH, Bureau Veritas, Alpha Marine, and other key partners across two successful newbuild programmes to date.”
The new fleet, which includes Orca Fisher, Narwhal Fisher, Tiger Fisher, and Dolphin Fisher, is scheduled to join the fleet from early 2026, fulfilling the long-term demand for mid-sized ships in North-West Europe coastal shipping markets.The latest programme follows the successful delivery of Sir John Fisher and Lady Maria Fisher in 2023. Together, the vessels represent a third of James Fisher’s fleet and a multi-year partnership with YZDH, now responsible for constructing six of its ships.
James Fisher continues to invest in safe, smart maritime solutions that respond to evolving energy and logistics needs, with fleet renewal a critical part of its strategy to reach net zero by 2050.
