Vertom Group has celebrated a significant milestone with the christening and launch of MV Vertom Tula, the ninth vessel in its innovative LABRAX series. The ceremony took place at Royal T Shipyards in Kampen and was particularly notable as it was the first vessel launched under the yard’s new name and Royal designation, which was recently granted in honor of its 100th anniversary.
A Royal Beginning for a Sustainable Vessel
The christening ceremony was a global affair, with the vessel’s godmother, Mrs. Tula Gonzaléz, traveling from South America with her family to perform the naming. This international presence highlighted the spirit of global maritime cooperation that is central to both Vertom Group and Royal T Shipyards’ operations.
Dirk de Jong, Technical Director for Vertom Group, emphasized the collaborative effort behind the vessel’s construction, stating that the MV Vertom Tula is a “true piece of Dutch craftsmanship” built through close collaboration between the shipyard, suppliers, and crew. This reflects Vertom’s commitment to quality, trust, and sustainable growth.
The LABRAX Series: A Focus on Efficiency and Sustainability
The MV Vertom Tula, like its sister vessels in the LABRAX series, is designed for exceptional cargo-handling capabilities and operational efficiency. The vessel’s key specifications include:
- Length: 118.60 meters
- Beam: 14.30 meters
- Cargo Hold: A spacious full-box cargo hold with a capacity of 329,700 cubic feet.
A key feature of the LABRAX series is its cutting-edge diesel-electric propulsion system, a low-resistance hull design, and a smart energy management system. These innovations are engineered to achieve significant fuel savings and emissions reductions. The vessels are also built with a modular design, making them ready to transition to alternative zero-emission fuels like methanol or hydrogen in the near future. This approach aligns with Royal T Shipyards’ long-standing commitment to “future-proof engineering” and “emission-free operations.”
The MV Vertom Tula will be completed in Kampen in the coming weeks and will then proceed to Royal T Shipyards’ facilities in Harlingen for sea trials, with delivery scheduled for September.
A Strong Partnership Driving Innovation
The collaboration between Royal T Shipyards and Vertom Group continues to be a driving force behind the success of their new builds. During the launch, Thecla Bodewes, CEO of the shipyards, remarked that the ship is “not just steel and technology” but the “result of craftsmanship, collaboration, and care,” celebrating the dedication of everyone involved in bringing the vessel to life. The event was attended by a broad range of maritime sector professionals, all united in their commitment to building the future of shipping.
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Source: Vertom
