Loading…
Abbreviation: VLCC
Very Large Crude Carrier — single-hull-era 200,000-320,000 DWT crude tanker; today all double-hull post-OPA-90.
VLCC voyages typically run between Middle East / West Africa / South America and Asia / Europe / US. Loaded transits avoid coastal exposure (TSS routing) due to draft and manoeuvrability. Officers gain VLCC experience as second mate / 2/E and progress to chief / master after 5+ years.
Source: Industry AFRA convention; Clarksons Tanker Register
Editorial confidence: how we grade.