New hybrid-electric vessel loads first cargo at ABP Ipswich

(Posted on 08/05/23)

Associated British Ports (ABP’s) Port of Ipswich, the UK’s leading grain export port, has welcomed the maiden call of the MV Vertom Cyta, a brand-new hybrid-electric shortsea General Cargo Ship.

The Vertom Cyta is the second in a series of four new Vertom vessels fitted with a diesel-electric propulsion system, which provides a more sustainable option for shipping operations with increased efficiency and reduced emissions.

The ship was officially launched with a ceremony at the Thecla Bodewes Shipyards facility in Kampen, Netherlands, on 23 February 2023. Following final fittings, the vessel departed the Port of Harlingen in the Netherlands on Monday 1 May, and sailed under ballast to the Port of Ipswich.

Whilst at the Port of Ipswich, Clarkson’s Port Services loaded the vessel’s very first cargo, 7,000 tonnes of wheat, which is due to be shipped to Portugal for her first delivery of commercial cargo.

Andrew Harston, Regional Director, Wales and Short Sea Ports, ABP said: “We are delighted to welcome the Vertom Cyta to the Port of Ipswich for her maiden cargo voyage. The Port of Ipswich has a proud heritage as one of Britain’s oldest trading ports, and ABP is pleased to continue its important trade heritage, while also having an eye to the future by welcoming vessels designed to be more efficient and environmentally friendly.

“Vertom is a leading European ship owner who are building a fleet of new vessels designed to anticipate future trends with the capacity to convert methanol fuel or hydrogen power.

“ABP is focused on supporting the energy transition and achieving Net Zero by 2040 through our new sustainability strategy – ‘Ready for Tomorrow’ – and it’s great to see hybrid ships such as the Vertom Cyta, working alongside electric cranes and electric vehicles at our ports to Keep Britain Trading sustainability.”