Finance specialist Varde Partners is said to be selling two of its three VLCCs at firm prices.
The Hyundai Samho built 319,000-dwt Energy R and Power D (both built 2003) are reported tied up on subjects for $28.5m.
The figure compares with the $26.5m to $26.9m VesselsValue has against the ships.
They were purchased from Reederei Nord in 2015 for $46m each and have been trading in the Tankers International pool.
Brokers note the price is a notch down on the $31m FPSO specialist Yinson paid Lykiardopulo family company Neda Maritime in July for the 309,000-dwt Apollonia (built 2003)
Brokers say the gap reflects the typical premium associated with conversion sales to the offshore sector rather than a tip in the tanker market.
Varde is today a provider of finance to shipping and has been an active buyer of distressed shipping debt.
The alternative investment firm formed by three former Cargill staffers in the 1990s is no stranger to shipping.
Its most notable move historically has been the 2007 takeover of Chembulk, which was quickly sold.
Varde also owns a series of with eight feeder containerships which it ordered as newbuildings in 2013 and 2014.
Partner Stephen Seymour told TradeWinds in July Varde did not see itself as a shipowner despite its investments in both tankers and containerships.
“That for us is a long-term ¬opportunity where we can see ourselves as partners for shipowners,” he said.
“Ultimately, we are only ever ¬going to be an investment firm. We do own assets but there is a difference in mentality, so we want to be a financing partner over the long term for shipowners.”
Varde declined to comment on the matter when contacted by TradeWinds today.
