Just a week after the successful naming ceremony of Ussama Bhum and Varanya Bhum in Japan on 27 August, Regional Container Lines (RCL) introduced its two newest vessels on 3 September, the Hemma Bhum and Itthi Bhum, each with a capacity of 7,000 TEUs.
The grand naming ceremony took place at the Shanghai Waigaoqiao Shipbuilding Yard in China, where the ships were constructed. This event marks a significant milestone in RCL’s mission to enhance its fleet and expand its service offerings across the Asia-Pacific region.
The Hemma Bhum, meaning Golden Land, was christened by Nintira Sophonpanich, with Chartsiri Sophonpanich, President of Bangkok Bank, attending as the guest of honour. The name symbolizes RCL’s hopes for prosperity in its maritime ventures.
Similarly, the Itthi Bhum, which translates to Successful Land, reflects the company’s dedication to continuous achievement and excellence in the shipping industry. Charunee Chinwongvorakul served as the sponsor lady, accompanied by Vichit Chinwongvorakul, Chairman of Chinwong Food Company Limited, as the guest of honour.
RCL’s senior leadership, including Sumate Tanthuwanit, Chairman of the Executive Committee, and Twinchok Tanthuwanit, President of RCL, also attended, highlighting the significance of this accomplishment for the company.
“The naming of the Hemma Bhum and Itthi Bhum marks a thrilling new phase for RCL. These vessels are not merely additions to our fleet but are emblematic of our dedication to growth, innovation, and excellence in every journey we embark on,” commented on the event, Twinchok Tanthuwanit.
Both vessels embarked on their maiden voyages on the very day they were commissioned into service with RCL and PIL. With the addition of these two 7,000 TEU ships, RCL is set to boost its operational capacity, enhancing service efficiency and reliability for its customers and partners.
Furthermore, RCL has signed newbuilding contracts for two additional 7,000 TEU vessels with the Shanghai Waigaoqiao Shipbuilding Yard. These new ships will be equipped with the latest Energy Saving Devices (ESD) and will carry the Dual Fuel Ready notation, preparing them for future clean propulsion standards. Notably, the delivery schedule, set between 2026 and 2028, complements RCL’s fleet enhancement strategy.
