![Photo: Vale](http://media.assettype.com/bairdmaritime%2Fimport%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F201216-8-Vale.jpg?w=480&auto=format%2Ccompress&fit=max)
Brazilian shipowner Vale recently completed the final operational voyages of its fleet of single-hulled very large ore carriers (VLOCs) that were originally built as very large crude carriers (VLCCs).
Earlier this year, the company decided on the phase-out or substitution of all converted vessels engaged in its cargo transportation, either through early termination or amendment of contracts.
Vale will continue to serve long-term contracts with shipowners for the use of its more efficient and modern Valemax and Guaibamax vessels.