THECLA BODEWES SHIPYARDS I PROFILE

diesel-electric multi-purpose vessels for Vertom – following this, two additional 7,000-TDW vessels were contracted in December 2022.

“The LABRAX series commissioned by Dutch Vertom Group has strengthened our position in the short sea shipping market,” Project Developer Wilco Smit explained. “The vessels feature a reliable diesel-electric propulsion system and by utilising the smart power management system, we have further optimised the vessels’ energy and fuel consumption – greatly reducing the ships’ emissions. The second vessel of the series, “Vertom Cyta”, was successfully launched in February and will be delivered in April. Two other launches will follow later this year.

“The Labrax-series is a perfect example of how the yard is using local suppliers and subcontractors in order to achieve the highest system quality on board, but still focus on keeping the costs down in all respects: especially the suppliers from the northern part of the Netherlands, who are well known for their ability to react fast, and still provide the services we expect without sacrificing on quality.”

In partnership with one of its affiliates, a Dutch manufacturer of environmentally friendly power transmission solutions, TBSY has invested heavily towards perfecting its diesel-electric propulsion systems. These have a positive effect on a vessel’s propeller revolutions per minute. To further the efficiency of its vessels, the company has also designed a hull perfect for reduced resistance at sea.

“Each reduction in hull resistance has an immediate effect in fuel consumption,

and thus operational costs as well,”

Ms Bodewes said. “We know it is incredibly important for our hull lines to be optimised to the max, which is why our yards are dedicated to investigating CFD calculations and are frequently assessing vessel designs for potential improvements. It may sound odd but, when it comes to hull resistance, every single percentage saved counts.

“By achieving a 2 per cent saving in hull resistance – especially with current operational costs – companies can save a lot on fuel expenses. For our customers that’s quite an attractive option.”

Expertise in diverse markets

Currently underway at TBSY is a technically advanced research vessel. Once complete, the RV Wim Wolff will measure 40m in length and will provide the Royal Netherlands Institute for Sea Research (NIOZ) with state-of-the-art research facilities – including dry and wet labs. Following the successful construction of the vessel’s hull, the company has now started outfitting and interior installation at its Harlingen facility.

“The RV Wim Wolff is made of aluminium,” said Mr Smit. “Together with our engineering partners, we invested a lot of time into designing a SOLAS compliant vessel with a shallow draft that wasn’t made from steel. It proves that we can produce top-quality vessels from other metals, highlights the specialist skillsets of our workforce and also exemplifies our experience of different engineering methods.

“The ship will also comply with SOLAS classifications; for example, the aluminium hull meets the highest standards of fire integrity. We don’t often get the opportunity to build a 40-metre diesel-electric vessel like this to SOLAS specifications. One example of sustainable solutions implemented onboard the vessel is the use of deck covering made from recycled plastics. Not only this is better from an environmental point of view but it also contributes to safe working conditions for the crew.”

The diesel electric power management system also incorporates a battery bank which enables the vessel to sail without emissions and without underwater noise in the protected areas of the Waddenzee.

TBSYs’ Project Development department has recently expanded its capabilities; with an expertise in a diverse range of markets, new designs are essential. “We are regularly preparing new designs in-house, and by using our strong relationships with ship owners, we are able to adapt these designs for future trading,” Mr Smit said. “The department is working hard to develop technical solutions for potential zero emissions demands in collaboration with our network of key Dutch suppliers.”

The Dutch maritime industry

With a rich offering of highly qualified professionals at its doorstep, TBSY prefers to work with local suppliers and is fully invested in the Dutch economy.

“What you see still in The Netherlands is a huge network of skilled suppliers,” Ms Bodewes explained. “That's also why our customers like to come here, because they know they will receive a highstandard vessel. In the northern part of the Netherlands there is an abundance of small, but highly qualified suppliers. Not only do they provide quality, but they are extremely efficient as well.”

The Dutch maritime industry is incredibly important to TBSY: that plays an active role in discussions regarding the future of the industry. Recently, the spotlight has focused on the Maritime Masterplan – a commitment made by shipbuilders and the Dutch government to manufacture and manage 30 emission-free Dutch vessels by 2030.

“It is important to recognise that our industry has strategic importance to the Netherlands,” Mr Smit said. “Our nation is renowned for her innovation capabilities and the smart and high standard technologies in the maritime industry. We are strong believers in keeping that knowledge and creativity alive within Europe.

“Our maritime industry is vital to the country’s economy and key for the upcoming transitions including protection against both geo-political and environ - mental threats; it is an incredibly potent sector, full of exceptionally talented individuals, which is why we need to solidify its future.”

On the topic, Ms Bodewes added: “There will always be a need for new vessels; in particular ships that answer to the demands of green initiatives. It is so important that, as a shipyard, we are aware of our responsibility for our planet, to leave behind a safe and healthy world for our children,” she concluded. “That is why our mission is to strive for zero emission shipping, and that all starts on the drawing board.”