Top the World’s Largest Oil Tankers

 In the vast expanse of global maritime transport, some vessels stand out not only for their immense size but also for their critical role in facilitating the worldwide oil supply chain. As of 2024, several oil tankers dominate this category, reaching extraordinary dimensions and load capacities. This list highlights the ten largest oil tankers currently in operation, examining their technical specifications, ownership, and unique contributions to maritime logistics.

1. OCEANIA

• Length: 380 meters
• Width: 68 meters
• Deadweight Tonnage (DWT): 441,585 MT
• Owner: Euronav NV
• Overview: Originally named TI Oceania, this ultra-large crude carrier (ULCC) has been converted into a Floating Storage and Offloading (FSO) unit. It holds the record as the largest tanker in active service.

2. FSO ASIA

• Length: 380 meters
• Width: 68 meters
• Deadweight Tonnage (DWT): 432,023 MT
• Owner: Euronav NV
• Overview: Another of Euronav's ULCCs, the FSO Asia now serves as a storage unit, showcasing both the adaptability and engineering prowess behind these maritime giants.

3. TI EUROPE

• Length: 380 meters
• Width: 68 meters
• Deadweight Tonnage (DWT): 441,561 MT
• Owner: Euronav NV
• Overview: Part of the same fleet as the Oceania, TI Europe remains a pivotal asset for crude oil transport and storage.

4. ULCC Jahre Viking (Knock Nevis)

• Length: 458 meters
• Width: 69 meters
• Deadweight Tonnage (DWT): 564,763 MT
• Owner: Previously Hellespont Shipping Corp
• Overview: Although now decommissioned, Jahre Viking, later known as Knock Nevis, held the title of the largest ship ever built, influencing the design of modern tankers.

5. Esso Atlantic

• Length: 406.57 meters
• Width: 70 meters
• Deadweight Tonnage (DWT): 516,895 MT
• Owner: ExxonMobil
• Overview: Renowned for its longevity, the Esso Atlantic is a model of ULCC engineering from the 1970s.

6. Seawise Giant

• Length: 458.46 meters
• Width: 68.9 meters
• Deadweight Tonnage (DWT): 564,763 MT
• Owner: Hong Kong Orient Overseas
• Overview: Known for its extreme carrying capacity, Seawise Giant played a crucial role in oil transport before its conversion and eventual scrapping.

7. Nai Superba

• Length: 381.92 meters
• Width: 68 meters
• Deadweight Tonnage (DWT): 409,400 MT
• Owner: Italian Refining Company (ENI)
• Overview: This tanker has been operational since the 1980s and is noted for its considerable size and fuel efficiency.

8. Esso Pacific

• Length: 406 meters
• Width: 69 meters
• Deadweight Tonnage (DWT): 516,895 MT
• Owner: ExxonMobil
• Overview: As a sister ship to the Esso Atlantic, it represents the height of ULCC designs in the 1970s.

9. Berge Emperor

• Length: 381 meters
• Width: 70 meters
• Deadweight Tonnage (DWT): 411,000 MT
• Owner: Berge Bulk
• Overview: Constructed in Japan, Berge Emperor is recognized for its unique design, making it both fuel-efficient and environmentally friendly.

10. Berge Enterprise

• Length: 381.82 meters
• Width: 70 meters
• Deadweight Tonnage (DWT): 411,000 MT
• Owner: Berge Bulk
• Overview: A near-identical vessel to Berge Emperor, Berge Enterprise continues to serve global oil demands efficiently.

These monumental tankers demonstrate the remarkable capabilities of modern engineering in addressing global energy transportation needs. With towering structures and impressive load capacities, they represent both the pinnacle of naval design and the logistical backbone of the energy industry. As the world increasingly moves toward sustainable energy sources, the legacy and contribution of these tankers will continue to leave an indelible mark on the maritime and energy sectors.