Vertom Group launched second 7,000 DWT vessel MV Vertom Cyta at Thecla Bodewes Shipyards

The Vertom Group, one of the leading short sea shipping operators within Europe, has announced the successful launch and christening of its latest vessel, MV Vertom Cyta. The vessel was built at Thecla Bodewes Shipyards. She is the second of eight vessels being constructed at the yard facility in Kampen, The Netherlands. MV Vertom Cyta is named after Cyta de Jong, wife of Vertom CEO Arjan de Jong.

The MV Vertom Cyta features a diesel-electric propulsion system, which offers superior efficiency and reduced emissions, making it a more sustainable option for shipping operations. The vessel has been designed to meet the highest environmental standards, while also providing the highest levels of performance and reliability. With a length of 118.60m and breadth of 14.30m, the vessel is tailor-made to provide competitive shipping-solutions for Vertom’s clients.

The launch of the MV Vertom Cyta marks a significant milestone for Vertom, as it is the company’s ambition to continue investing in sustainable shipping technologies and expend its fleet. The vessel is equipped with state-of-the-art equipment and facilities, providing a comfortable and safe environment for the crew during their voyages.

“We are pleased about the ongoing collaboration with Thecla Bodewes Shipyards and all suppliers, which has recently been extended to an order of eight 7,000 DWT Diesel-Electric Multi-Purpose Dry Cargo vessels,” Vertom CEO Arjan de Jong said. “Having the second vessel, MV Vertom Cyta, launched today, is a testament to our commitment to sustainable shipping and our vision for the future of our industry. We are proud to have Cyta de Jong christen the MV Vertom Cyta and we look forward to many successful voyages ahead.” 

“Our company efforts in the search for sustainable solutions towards zero emission shipping definitely sees a further continuation in these 7,000 DWT vessels,” said Thecla Bodewes, CEO of Thecla Bodewes Shipyards. “The vessel’s systems are selected to be adapted at a later stage, which is a great advantage for shipowners like Vertom who wants to contribute towards the transition to a zero-emission shipping sector.”

The launching ceremony was held on 23 February 2023, at the Thecla Bodewes Shipyards facility in Kampen. The christening of the vessel was performed by Cyta de Jong, who gave a lively speech and broke a bottle of champagne against the bow of the ship, as tradition dictates. The MV Vertom Cyta will be commissioned in Kampen in the coming weeks followed by sea trials in the North Sea. Delivery is scheduled for mid-April.

The Vertom Group is an experienced and reliable partner focused on professional maritime services concerning sea-transport. Since 1974, Vertom has built a strong track record in the Short Sea Shipping market. The company’s extensive international network enables it to provide tailor-made shipping solutions that match the specific needs of its clients. Vertom offers solutions for all maritime services, including port agencies and liner services. The company continuously follows new market developments and applies the latest technologies to anticipate the changing needs of clients. Vertom currently operates a modern fleet of around 100 vessels in the range 1.500 to 10.000 DWT.

Thecla Bodewes Shipyards is a family-owned business in the 7th generation with combined experience in shipbuilding of over 300 years. The shipyard’s focus lies with delivering future proof “green” vessels using innovative sustainable solutions to decrease pollution and strive for a zero-emission shipping sector. With the portfolio of over 200 realised vessels, including 20 diesel-electric, LNG-electric and hydrogen-electric ships, and over 15 years’ experience with Diesel-Electric Propulsion Systems, the shipyard has demonstrable capability to deliver the vessels in time and to the highest standards, for the benefit of green-conscientious customers world-wide. Thecla Bodewes Shipyards builds shallow draft tugs and pushers, fuel efficient multipurpose vessels, state of-the-art dredgers and special purpose vessels.