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A significant chapter in Dutch shipbuilding history unfolded in Kampen this week as the MV Vertom Tula, the ninth vessel in the innovative LABRAX series, was successfully christened and launched by Royal T Shipyards.
Previously known as Thecla Bodewes Shipyards, Royal T Shipyards celebrated its first vessel launch under its newly acquired Royal designation, awarded in June 2025 to mark the company’s centennial anniversary. The launch of MV Vertom Tula isn’t just a continuation of a proven ship series—it’s the debut of a new identity for one of the Netherlands’ most established shipbuilders.
“This launch is a true milestone,” said Thecla Bodewes, CEO of Royal T Shipyards. “MV Vertom Tula represents everything we stand for: teamwork, technology, trust, and the future of sustainable shipping.”
A Global Ceremony with a Personal Touch
The christening ceremony drew an international crowd and featured Mrs. Tula Gonzaléz as the ship’s godmother. Her journey from South America to Kampen with her family underscored the global spirit of collaboration at the heart of this project.
Representing Vertom Group, Dirk de Jong, the company’s new Technical Director, noted the significance of participating in such a pivotal moment so early in his tenure. “The christening and launch of MV Vertom Tula highlights the strength of our partnerships and our shared commitment to innovation and sustainability,” he said.
LABRAX Series: Built for the Future
At 118.60 meters in length and 14.30 meters across the beam, the MV Vertom Tula is designed for performance and environmental responsibility. Its box-shaped cargo hold offers 329,700 cubic feet of capacity, tailored to meet the evolving logistics demands of short-sea shipping.
The LABRAX series features diesel-electric propulsion, a smart energy management system, and a low-resistance hull—resulting in significant fuel savings and lower emissions. Each of the nine vessels in the 7,280 DWT class is designed to be compatible with future zero-emission fuel technologies, underscoring Royal T Shipyards’ long-term commitment to sustainable shipbuilding.
The shipyard has delivered more than 200 vessels to date and has over 15 years of experience in electric propulsion. MV Vertom Tula fully integrates these lessons, blending modern engineering with practical, future-ready performance.
The vessel is expected to complete outfitting at the shipyard’s Kampen facility in the coming weeks before heading to Harlingen for sea trials and final delivery this September.
Dutch Craftsmanship Meets Maritime Innovation
The MV Vertom Tula launch continues to build on a longstanding collaboration between Royal T Shipyards and Vertom Group. This partnership has proven essential in turning engineering visions into working vessels that meet today’s environmental and commercial standards.
“This ship is not just steel and technology,” said Thecla Bodewes. “It is the result of craftsmanship, collaboration, and care. Every person involved—from welders to engineers—helped bring this vessel to life.”
The event was attended by dozens of shipyard workers, suppliers, and maritime professionals. Together, they celebrated not only the vessel but the values that shaped it: sustainability, partnership, and Dutch ingenuity.
