Greek owner Nautilus Management has entered the tanker newbuilding market with an order for up to two MR1 product and chemical carriers at China’s Wuhu Shipyard.

Splash understands the deal covers one firm 41，000 dwt vessel and an option for a second. Delivery slots run from the third quarter of 2028 into early 2029， while pricing has not been disclosed.

The ships are based on the SDARI 41 design and will be equipped with stern and vapour recovery lines， alongside other technical upgrades aimed at meeting oil-major vetting requirements.

The contract marks the first tanker newbuilding project for the company led by brothers Dimitris and George Vernicos.

Nautilus currently manages the 36，000 dwt handysize bulkers V Bros and V Isalos. The newbuilds will expand the brothers’ tanker interests alongside the 2022-built， 40，000 dwt Akti A， which is currently managed by Ancora Investment Trust.

The Vernicos brothers took full control of Akti A earlier this year while selling stakes in three older tankers built between 2004 and 2008. The Wuhu order shifts their tanker renewal programme towards modern MR1 tonnage.