Vertom Group has taken delivery of MV Vertom Rita, the first of a series of twelve diesel-electric short-sea vessels ordered from Chowgule Shipyards in India. The 6000-DWT vessel is the smaller version of the 7280-DWT vessel built in the Netherlands, of which six have already been delivered.
With its box-shaped dry cargo hold, MV Vertom Rita offers flexibility, catering to diverse shipping needs such as bulk and breakbulk transport. The design prioritises operational efficiency by combining reduced energy consumption with optimised cargo intake. Measuring 99 metres in length and with a gross tonnage of 3923 GT, the vessel ensures reliability and performance for short-sea operations.
The construction process benefited from proven designs and collaborative expertise, ensuring a streamlined build that emphasizes safety, durability, and consistency across the fleet.
Also read: Vertom orders four tweendeckers in India
Fleet renewal programme
‘The delivery of MV Vertom Rita is again a milestone for Vertom as we continue to renew our fleet and align with our long-term strategy,’ says Arjan de Jong, CEO of Vertom Group. ‘It is good to see the first vessel in this series ready to embark on its maiden voyage. We wish the crew a safe journey and look forward to welcoming the eleven additional vessels that will follow in the coming years.’
In addition to this series of twelve vessels, Vertom is investing in a broader fleet renewal programme. Alongside the 7280 DWT vessels currently under construction in the Netherlands at Thecla Bodewes Shipyards, these ships represent a significant modernisation effort.
‘With these vessels, we are making great strides toward achieving our target of reducing carbon intensity by forty per cent by 2030,’ De Jong adds.
Also read: Thecla Bodewes Shipyards delivers Vertom Lisa
Ready for future fuels
The MV Vertom Rita incorporates the latest diesel-electric propulsion technology, ensuring compliance with IMO Tier III standards while minimising environmental impact. The modular system utilises smaller, efficient engines that adjust to sailing profiles for optimal fuel consumption. This design not only reduces energy use, but is also ready for future alternative fuels, such as methanol-electric or hydrogen-electric propulsion.
In addition to its advanced engineering, the vessel is equipped with advanced data connectivity and automation systems, simplifying reporting and administrative tasks to improve crew efficiency.
Also read: Thecla Bodewes Shipyards delivers Vertom Anette
En route to Europe
MV Vertom Rita has started its journey to Europe, where it will operate in the European short-sea market. Deliveries of the other vessels are scheduled through 2029.
Picture by Vertom.
Also read: Thecla Bodewes Shipyards launches fifth LABRAX vessel for Vertom
