Chemship B.V.
EDITION 18
E-MAGAZINE
Chemship's journey continues!
I am pleased to confirm that our previous investment in Wind Assisted Propulsion Systems (WASP) does not end with just one vessel.
EcoVadis
When people see a sustainability rating, it often appears as just a number or a badge.
Marine Care urea barge
Already a few months ago, at the beginning of October, we celebrated another milestone together with our partners at Marine Care.
wind of change
Chemship Sets Course for Growth with New Houston Office
For many years, Chemship has supported our American partners from abroad. However, as the Scorpions once sang about “winds of change”, those winds have now reached us as well. And although the phrase “boots on the ground” may be somewhat overused these days, we firmly believe that being closer to our partners helps us stay connected, respond more quickly, and work more closely together. That is why we are establishing an office in Houston.
Opening an office in Houston is an important next step for us. We will use it as a stepping stone for further growth into Mexico and the Caribbean, regions where our clients have repeatedly asked us to expand our services. As you would expect from a company with over 60 years of experience in chemical shipping, we will continue to focus on what has always worked for us: being reliable, flexible, and easy to work with. This is the approach people associate with Chemship, and why some refer to us as the “Friendly Alternative”. We are proud of that name and committed to continuing to earn it.
Next week, we will be in Texas for the AFPM in San Antonio, which provides the perfect opportunity to share this news in person. So, if you are in Houston or attending AFPM in San Antonio and would like to hear more about our plans, we would be delighted to meet. Whether to discuss cargo flows, market outlooks, our next steps in Mexico and the Caribbean, or simply to enjoy a good cup of coffee, we look forward to seeing you and to enjoying some Texan hospitality and, hopefully, some fine weather.
Following the success of Chemical Challenger, Niels presents the next vessels to receive VentoFoils: Chemical Contender and Chemical Fighter.
New Year’s Party
Earlier this year, we had the pleasure of welcoming a large group of partners and friends to our (slightly postponed) New Year’s party. Although the Dutch winter had other plans for us on the original date, the flexibility so characteristic of the shipping community ensured an excellent turnout when we gathered on the rescheduled evening.
The programme opened with an introduction to Team Chemship, followed by an address from our CEO, Niels Grotz. In his speech, Niels emphasised that our responsibility extends beyond our day-to-day operations. He also proudly reaffirmed our continued support for Familiehuis Daniël den Hoed (www.familiehuis.nl), an organisation that remains close to our hearts.
A particularly memorable moment came when Niels placed our colleague Artemis He in the spotlight in recognition of her outstanding contribution to achieving the EcoVadis Platinum score. In appreciation of her dedication and hard work, Artemis was presented with the Chemship Lifetime Award, a well-deserved acknowledgement of her role in advancing our sustainability journey.
The evening was not only a moment for reflection, but also an opportunity to look ahead. In the presence of many valued partners, we marked an important milestone in our green transition with the signing of a contract between Econowind and Chemship for two additional sets of ‘Sails’ (Ventofoil systems).
Our positive experience with the MT Chemical Challenger, already equipped with Ventofoil technology, has given us the confidence to extend this solution to other vessels within our fleet. By further increasing our wind propulsion capacity, we are taking another tangible step forward. Demonstrating that our sustainability ambitions are firmly rooted in action.
The evening continued with excellent food, lively conversations, live music and a relaxed atmosphere. Despite the postponement, it proved to be an evening well worth the wait and a fitting start to 2026.
On our way to AFPM
Connecting in Texas
We are currently checking the validity of our ESTA status, which can only mean one thing: we are preparing once again for the AFPM Conference.
For us, AFPM has always been more than “just a conference”. A visit to Houston and San Antonio is an opportunity to reconnect with long-standing partners, catch up with industry friends, and remain open to new connections. In a world that remains, to say the least, unstable and challenging, sitting around the same table and exchanging views face to face still makes all the difference.
Travelling to Texas also gives us the opportunity to enthusiastically share the news of our expansion into the Mexican and Caribbean markets. Alongside our established USA–Mediterranean trade lane, this step reflects our ambition to further strengthen our presence in the region and create new opportunities for collaboration.
So, if you are in Houston or attending AFPM in San Antonio, let’s try to meet. Whether it’s to discuss cargo flows, market outlooks, our next steps in Mexico and the Caribbean, or simply to enjoy a cup of coffee, we would be delighted to see you and experience some Texan hospitality, hopefully with good weather.
See you there!
Chemship's journey continues!
“Setting Sail Towards Sustainable Shipping”
I am pleased to confirm that our previous investment in Wind Assisted Propulsion Systems (WASP) does not end with just one vessel. In January this year, we confirmed that two more of our chemical tankers will be equipped with four sails each.
Building on the success of Chemical Challenger, the first chemical tanker in the world to be equipped with wind-assisted ship propulsion technology, this repeat order highlights the growing confidence in wind propulsion across the industry.
Chemship is committed to advancing sustainability across every area of our business, as I firmly believe in the importance of achieving net-zero shipping. We recognise that there is still a long way to go in a fluctuating market, but that does not stop us from investing in systems that we already know make a real difference.
The results of the VentoFoils installed on Chemical Challenger speak for themselves. Combined with our fuel optimisation software, the sails have reduced fuel consumption by up to 15%. For us, this is more than enough reason to continue installing sails on two additional vessels, demonstrating that we are making meaningful progress towards a cleaner shipping future.
All going well, Chemical Contender and Chemical Fighter will both be fitted with four 16-metre ATEX-certified VentoFoils each, with the installations expected to be operational by the end of this year.
Harbour Run 2025
HYROX 2025
EPCA Run 2025
Staying active through sport and shared experiences
Moving Together at Chemship
Harbour Run 2025
A unique run through the harbour, combining sport, scenery, and raw energy.
On Sunday, October 5th, 2025, we took on the 12th Harbour Run with the iconic cranes and warehouses of the Port of Rotterdam as our backdrop. No smooth asphalt, but a rugged course filled with mud, sweat, and steel. Starting in Heijplaat set the tone immediately: roll up your sleeves and go. From hauling heavy bags to climbing the massive Container Wall, the atmosphere was electric. Whether running 6 or 10 kilometers, the team spirit and dockside views made every drop of sweat worth it. Tired, dirty, but proud at the finish. Once again, true harbour heroes.
HYROX 2026
A high-intensity challenge where endurance and strength came together.
The RAI Amsterdam buzzed with adrenaline as the race kicked off. What started fast quickly turned into a mental battle during the Sled Push and Burpee Broad Jumps. Brief recovery came with each run lap, until the notorious Wall Balls demanded the very last ounce of strength. The final stretch was a fight against gravity, but the release at the finish line made it all worthwhile. HYROX 2026 pushed limits and left only euphoria behind.
Running EPCA 2025
A refreshing way to stay active, clear the mind, and recharge between meetings.
Running – EPCA 2025 brought people together through movement and connection. In a relaxed, energetic setting, participants from different countries shared miles, conversations, and ambitions. The photo captures a group of Chemship colleagues alongside a participant from another company, reflecting the collaborative spirit of the event. More than just a run, it created space for meaningful interaction and strengthened international bonds. On and off the course, the enthusiasm was tangible, proof that sport is a powerful way to connect, collaborate, and recharge.
Marine Care urea barge: the Urea-Xpress
Already a few months ago, at the beginning of October, we celebrated another milestone together with our partners at Marine Care.
We have been working closely together for many years, as they are our sole supplier of cleaning chemicals and, more importantly, share a mindset similar to Chemship: always innovating wherever possible. They continuously improve their cleaning chemical formulations and develop next-level spectrometers, among other initiatives.
This time, they became the first in Rotterdam to introduce a dedicated urea barge, named the Urea-Xpress.
We were honoured to collaborate with Marine Care on the first delivery of urea to our Chemical Ranger.
Urea is required for Tier III engines to reduce NOx emissions from exhaust gases. Until now, this was delivered in IBC containers, making the transfer to the vessel a time-consuming process.
With the barge, they were able to service our vessel in less than two hours, supplying sufficient urea for several months at sea.
Once again, this represents an efficiency improvement in both our operations and theirs—reducing vessel idle time and lowering emissions, as our turnaround time in port is improved.
We wish Marine Care many successful years with their barge and smooth operations ahead!
an inside look at how chemship strengthened its sustainability performance
Behind the Score: Chemship’s EcoVadis Journey
When people see a sustainability rating, it often appears as just a number or a badge. But behind every score lies a story that involves reviewing policies, gathering documentation, and reflecting on how a company can improve its practices.
Over the past year, I had the opportunity to lead Chemship’s EcoVadis assessment process. What began as a structured evaluation quickly became a valuable learning experience for our organisation.
The effort led to an exciting result. In 2025, Chemship achieved the EcoVadis Platinum Medal with a score of 88/100, placing us in the top 1% of companies assessed worldwide. This achievement is particularly meaningful, considering that our score in 2024 was 66/100, demonstrating significant progress within a single year.
Understanding EcoVadis
EcoVadis is one of the world’s leading platforms for evaluating corporate sustainability performance. Companies are assessed based on their sustainability management systems and supporting documentation across several areas, including:
- Environment
- Labour & Human Rights
- Ethics
For XS-sized companies like Chemship, the EcoVadis evaluation focuses on these three key themes. The assessment examines how companies manage policies, procedures, and practices that support responsible and ethical business operations.
For many customers and partners, EcoVadis has become an important reference point when evaluating sustainability performance within global supply chains.
Preparing for the assessment
Managing the EcoVadis assessment required coordination across different parts of the company. The process involved preparing responses to detailed questionnaires and supporting them with documentation such as policies, procedures, and internal guidelines.
One of the most interesting aspects was realising how much of our sustainability framework was already embedded in Chemship’s day-to-day operations. As a chemical shipping company, regulatory compliance is a fundamental part of how we work. Safety standards, environmental requirements and operational procedures are not only essential for shipping, they also directly support the areas evaluated by EcoVadis.
This strong connection meant that many of our existing compliance practices already aligned with sustainability expectations. At the same time, the EcoVadis process encouraged us to take a closer look: Are our policies clearly documented? Are responsibilities well defined? Are our procedures communicated effectively?
By combining our regulatory foundation with clearer documentation and structure, we were able to present a more complete and transparent picture of how Chemship operates.
From 66 to 88: Focusing on improvement
Our 2024 EcoVadis score of 66/100 provided a solid starting point, but it also highlighted several areas where we could improve.
For the 2025 assessment, we focused specifically on the improvement opportunities identified in the previous evaluation. By reviewing EcoVadis feedback and strengthening certain policies and documentation, we were able to demonstrate clearer alignment with the platform’s sustainability criteria.
This focused approach made a significant difference. Our efforts resulted in a score increase to 88/100, earning Chemship the EcoVadis Platinum Medal and placing us among the top 1% of companies globally.
Looking ahead
Achieving the EcoVadis Platinum Medal in 2025 is an important milestone for Chemship. At the same time, it represents another step in our broader sustainability journey.
For companies in the shipping industry, sustainability and regulatory compliance increasingly go hand in hand. By maintaining strong operational standards and continuously improving our policies and documentation, we can strengthen both our regulatory performance and our sustainability profile.
As a next step, Chemship is also working towards the release of its first sustainability report, which will further enhance transparency and provide a more comprehensive overview of our sustainability efforts and progress.
For me, working on the EcoVadis project has provided a deeper appreciation of how many different efforts across the company contribute to responsible business practices. Because behind every sustainability score is a story, one built on teamwork, continuous improvement, and a shared commitment to doing better.
And at Chemship, that journey continues.
Artemis He
Business Analyst
An Indian Summer Evening in
Houston
Some traditions only grow stronger with time and the Chemship Houston Summer Party is certainly one of them. Year after year, the evening proves its value, and judging by the wonderful turnout, it has firmly established itself on Houston’s social calendar.
Despite the AOFA conference taking place at the same time, many friends and partners made the effort to join us. It was a pleasure to reconnect, exchange the latest market insights, share a little industry news and, above all, enjoy each other’s company in an informal setting.
Following many requests during last year’s edition, we were delighted to return to the TMA building and it truly felt like coming home. Our sincere thanks go to René Daigre, Rebecca, and the entire team at Texas Marine Agency Inc. (TMA). Their generous hospitality once again created the perfect atmosphere for an evening defined by openness, friendship and good spirits.
No Houston Summer Party would be complete without its now well-established karaoke tradition. As the evening unfolded and conversations grew livelier, the microphones made their appearance. Classic favourites were performed with great enthusiasm. Occasionally with more passion than precision. Fortunately, our talents clearly lie in shipping rather than on stage at the Super Bowl half-time show.
With another memorable edition behind us, Team Chemship has already begun the countdown to next year’s gathering.
Hi everyone,
My name is Vincent Pinte
I’m 35 years old and originally from Brittany, France. I joined Chemship in early March and will be working in the chartering department alongside Finn Visser on the ARA–Med trade route. Before joining Chemship, I spent 11 years as a dry bulk shipbroker with Affinity Shipping, working in both Chile and the Netherlands. I joined my previous company shortly after completing my studies in Shipping & Trading at the University of Nantes.
My wife and I live in the beautiful city of Gouda with our two children, who are 9 and 7 years old. In my free time, I enjoy spending time with my family, cooking (usually with music on), and playing competitive rugby with RFC Gouda.
Working for a shipowner has always been something I hoped to do at some point in my career, so I’m very grateful to Chemship for giving me this opportunity. My goal now is to become fully operational as quickly as possible and to build great relationships and memories with the team and our customers.
And I am Sietse!
Together with Vincent, I recently joined Chemship as a Business Analyst. In this role, I will rotate across the different departments within the organisation, gaining a broad understanding of the business while supporting various projects. I have an academic background in finance and shipping economics, having studied in both Rotterdam and Groningen. I was born and raised in the north of the Netherlands and currently live as one of the only employees of Chemship in Amsterdam. In my free time, I enjoy sailing, surfing and both playing and watching football. I look forward to starting at Chemship and meeting new people in the industry.
Chemship socials
Christmas dinner and party
We celebrated Christmas with a festive dinner and party for our employees and their partners. Complete with great food, good company, and a DJ who kept the party going well into the evening.
Christmas at the office with the kids
The day before Christmas, we welcomed our children to the office for a joyful holiday activity. They spent the day playing, decorating cupcakes, and enthusiastically helping Wilfred with the Christmas gifts lottery. A highlight for the kids and us.
Celebrating Our Photo Competition Winner
Last year, we organised a photo competition for the crew of our vessels, with the theme “The Mood of the Sky.” After receiving many impressive entries, Chief Officer Akash Avinash Gangadhare (M.T. Chemical Fighter) was selected as the winner.
He has now officially received his prize, which was presented on board by Henk Oudenes. In recognition of his outstanding photograph, Akash was awarded a GoPro camera along with a printed version of his winning shot.
Congratulations once again, Akash. We look forward to seeing more of your perspectives from on board.
Goodbye
Roy van Oudheusden
After eight successful years, Roy, our Trade Lane Manager for Europe to the Mediterranean, has decided to pursue the next step in his career elsewhere. Naturally, we are sad to see him go, but at the same time Roy will remain part of the close-knit chemical tanker community. For that reason, we are also grateful to have had him with us for all those years.
Roy has built a long and practical career in the chemical tanker business. It all started as a port agent in the Port of Rotterdam, serving some of the world’s largest chemical majors. That is also how we remember him, and perhaps where his determination originates, hiding behind a tank to check whether the surveyor had arrived on time.
During his time at Chemship, Roy developed into a trusted colleague who was always at the centre of the organisation. His focus was on our Turkish business, which he treated with great care and dedication, almost as if it were his own. We thank him sincerely for the excellent work he has done during his time with us.
Of course, we will miss him, but Roy’s departure also creates opportunities for new colleagues to develop in their own way. Fortunately, we have talented people in-house who are ready to take on this responsibility.
We wish Roy every success in the future, and we are certain that our paths will cross again.
