While construction of the vessels Vertom Cyta and Vertom Tomma is in full swing, Vertom has ordered two additional vessels from Thecla Bodewes Shipyards. This brings the total to eight 7000-DWT diesel-electric multi-purpose dry cargo vessels of the LABRAX type.
The two extra vessels will have the same specifications, including the optimised hull shape and diesel-electric propulsion system. The LABRAX series, with a 118-metre length, 14.30-metre beam and 6.20-metre draught, is custom developed to Vertom Group’s requirements.
Also read: Thecla Bodewes Shipyards delivers first of six multi-purpose vessels to Vertom
Modular propulsion concept
The completely box-shaped cargo holds ensure maximum loading flexibility and cargo intake. Computational fluid dynamics (CFD) optimisation of the hull design has been performed for a fuel-efficient speed-power performance.
The vessel is powered by a future proof modular electric propulsion system to achieve EEDI numbers that are well below the future IMO standards. This modular propulsion concept is designed to be ready for future developments, by means of the ability to make the vessels’ propulsion methanol-electric or hydrogen-electric and to further reduce carbon emissions.
Also read: First of LABRAX series for Vertom leaves Thecla Bodewes Shipyards for sea trials
Deliveries to 2025
The first vessel of the series, the Vertom Patty, was launched on 23 September 2022. The sea trials in the North Sea took place in December 2022. The vessel’s maiden voyage has shown the vessel is achieving Vertom’s fuel consumption targets.
The upcoming launch of Vertom Cyta will be on 23 February 2023. Hull construction works for the next vessels in the LABRAX series have already started at Thecla Bodewes Shipyards and with the additional ordered vessels, further deliveries are scheduled from 2023 to 2025.
Also read: VIDEO: Thecla Bodewes Shipyards launches first of 7000-DWT LABRAX series for Vertom