Nordic American Tankers Limited announces
acquisition of its twenty-first vessel

Hamilton, Bermuda, March 20, 2013.

Nordic American Tankers Limited ("NAT" or the "Company") (NYSE:NAT) today announced that the Company has entered into a preliminary agreement to acquire its twenty-first vessel, a very modern double-hull Suezmax tanker delivered from a top yard in South Korea earlier this year. The agreed purchase price is in the region of $55 million. This first class vessel is expected to be delivered to us no later than May 15, 2013. The acquisition will be financed from the financial resources of the Company.

The vessel was built at high technical specifications. Our focus on safety for crew, vessels and the environment will never cease. NAT is a company built on quality in all respects.

The acquisition represents a natural step in the further development of NAT. The Company is seeking to increase its dividend and earnings capacity through further expansion. We believe that our strong balance sheet, well defined and transparent operating model provide the Company with a solid competitive position going forward.

Nordic American Tanker Shipping Ltd., press release