Vertom Group takes delivery of first 6,000DWT cargo ship in series

Dutch shipping company the Vertom Group has taken delivery of the first unit in a new series of shortsea cargo vessels ordered from Indian shipbuilder Chowgule and Company.

The 6,000DWT Vertom Rita belongs to a series of 12 ships that are smaller variants of another 7,000DWT series being built for Vertom by Dutch shipbuilder Thecla Bodewes.

Vertom Rita features a box-shaped hold for transporting bulk and breakbulk cargo. Vertom said the design prioritises operational efficiency by combining reduced energy consumption with optimised cargo intake.

The vessel measure 99 metres long and has a gross tonnage of 3,923. It incorporates diesel-electric propulsion technology, ensuring compliance with IMO Tier III NOx emissions standards while minimising environmental impact.

The modular system utilises smaller, efficient engines that adjust to sailing profiles for optimal fuel consumption. Vertom said this design not only reduces energy use but is also ready for future alternative fuels, such as methanol-electric or hydrogen-electric propulsion.

The vessel is also equipped with advanced data connectivity and automation systems, simplifying reporting and administrative tasks to improve crew efficiency.

Vertom Rita and its 11 sisters will operate in the European shortsea market.