Supertanker Avoids Houthi Threats by Taking Longer Route Through Suez

An Asia-bound supertanker has taken the longer route through the Suez Canal to avoid the Bab el-Mandeb Strait, which has been threatened by Houthi rebels. The Olympic Luck, a Greek-owned very large crude carrier, partially laden with Saudi oil, transited the canal on Sunday.

The ship is now heading to an unspecified destination in Asia after switching from Europe, according to shipping fixtures seen by Bloomberg. It's unclear why Olympic Luck took this route, but reasons could include its western ownership or a more conservative Asian buyer.

Another supertanker, the DHT Gazelle, is also planning to take the Suez Canal route. The vessel began signaling from within the Red Sea on Sunday and is currently idling at the entrance of the canal, partially laden with crude from the Saudi port of Yanbu.