The Dutch short-sea shipping company, Vertom Group, has officially taken delivery of the MV Vertom Rita, the first in a series of twelve diesel-electric short-sea vessels ordered from Chowgule Shipyards in India.
Key Features of MV Vertom Rita
The MV Vertom Rita boasts a box-shaped dry cargo hold, designed for operational efficiency by reducing energy consumption while maximizing cargo intake, as highlighted by Vertom. With a deadweight tonnage (dwt) of 6,000, the vessel represents the smaller counterpart to the 7,280 dwt vessels previously built in the Netherlands, six of which have already been delivered.
Measuring 99 meters in length and featuring a gross tonnage of 3,923, the MV Vertom Rita is tailored for short-sea operations. Its delivery marks a significant step in the company’s fleet renewal and sustainability initiatives.
Advanced Diesel-Electric Propulsion
The MV Vertom Rita incorporates cutting-edge diesel-electric propulsion technology to meet IMO Tier III standards and reduce its environmental footprint. The modular system, featuring smaller, more efficient engines, adjusts to varying sailing profiles to ensure optimal fuel consumption.
In addition, the vessel is future-ready, with the capability to adapt to alternative fuels such as methanol-electric or hydrogen-electric propulsion. This aligns with Vertom’s commitment to sustainability and reduced energy usage.
Enhanced Connectivity and Automation
Equipped with advanced data connectivity and automation systems, the vessel simplifies reporting and administrative tasks, improving crew efficiency and operational productivity. These features underscore Vertom’s efforts to adopt innovative technologies in its fleet renewal strategy.
A Milestone for Vertom
Arjan de Jong, CEO of Vertom Group, emphasized the significance of the MV Vertom Rita’s delivery, stating,
“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. It is good to see the first vessel in this series ready to embark on its maiden voyage.”
Fleet Renewal and Expansion
The MV Vertom Rita is part of a broader strategy to introduce innovative short-sea vessels designed for operational efficiency, environmental responsibility, and adaptability. With deliveries of this series scheduled through 2029, the initiative plays a crucial role in reducing the environmental impact of short-sea shipping while meeting the evolving demands of the maritime industry.
In addition to the 6,000 dwt series, Vertom is pursuing a larger fleet renewal program. This includes the 7,280 dwt vessels under construction in the Netherlands and an order for four 10,700 dwt geared multipurpose vessels from Chowgule Shipyards. These multipurpose vessels, slated for delivery in 2027 and 2028, are designed to address the requirements of modern shipping, incorporating advanced technology for safety, crew welfare, fuel efficiency, and operational flexibility.
