Converted to double hull in 2006, I think.

Asphalt/bitumen tankers are designed with “floating tanks” that are allowed to expand due to high temperature of the cargo. Tanks are sometimes (but not always) insulated to minimize heat losses

@Jadran,, in todays view of economical considerations you might have a good point, but the ship is 35 years old, Nobody in those days really looked at that.

Let's look from the practical side: temperature of the cargo is up to 250 °C (max) for transportation of asphalt, bitumen, coal tar and similar; this 250°C sure require good insulation of cargo tanks!

The only requirement for the carriage of asphalt is a system of heating coils, to keep the cargo liquid for pumping.

If she's an 'asphalt carrier' should the cargo tanks be well insulated ! ... I doubt this one has such ( hope I'm not mistaken for her cargo tanks "outfit"). :-)

And the asphalt trades being niche, she is not subject to the age restrictions charterers put on standard crude/product tankers. Incidentally, Maritec are the technical managers. She is owned/operated by Antwerp-based Asphalt traders Eres NV.

Brgds
Phil

Not only double-hulled but also an asphalt carrer. So no worries about worn-out tank coatings. So long as the cargo heating coils are working, ok she could go on for a few years yet.
Managed/operated from Antwerp by Maritec NV

Capt. Ted is right. She's also fully double hull so there is no reason why she can't operate in Europe. Incidentally, whilst some minor deficiencies have been recorded by PSC, she has had not ONE single detention in the last 10 years.

Brgds
Phil

Another "Prestige".

Pieter,, special reason why may be it should not be in european waters ? As long as it is regular inspected as per regulations and passes those inspections, which btw are more and more stringent by age and kept in proper shape age does not have much to do with the performance.

Reg.Owner - Maroni Shipping SA Panama

So we have 35 year old tanker sailing in European waters...who is the owner of the ship? Good shot BTW.