Thecla Bodewes Shipyards Begins Construction of BN 375, Launching New Partnership with Carisbrooke Shipping and Expanding LABRAX Multipurpose Series

21/05/2025

Thecla Bodewes Shipyards has officially started construction of building number 375, the first of two state-of-the-art LABRAX 7680 dwt vessels being built for Carisbrooke Shipping. The milestone was marked with a traditional start of construction ceremony at the yard in Kampen.

Mrs. Greta Croucher–de Vries, spouse of one of Carisbrooke Shipping's founding members, performed the symbolic first weld—highlighting the strong connection between both companies and celebrating the start of this significant fleet renewal project.

A Strong Start to a Forward-Thinking Partnership
Scheduled for delivery in 2026, BN 375 is a sister ship to the acclaimed LABRAX vessels currently under construction for the Vertom Group. This new project not only strengthens ties between the UK-based shipowner and the Dutch shipbuilder but also affirms their shared commitment to sustainable shipping.

The ceremony brought together team members and representatives from both companies, emphasizing a mutual vision for innovation and environmental performance in the short-sea shipping sector.

Next-Generation Design: High Performance, Low Emissions
The LABRAX 7680 series represents a new generation of multipurpose dry cargo vessels designed for operational flexibility and reduced environmental impact.

The vessels will feature:
Deadweight: 7,680 tons
Length: 118.60 meters
Beam: 14.30 meters

Cargo space: Two full-box cargo holds totaling 329,700 cubic feet
At the heart of the design is a diesel-electric propulsion system integrated with a smart power management system. This configuration significantly reduces fuel consumption and emissions compared to traditional vessels in this class—making the LABRAX series a key contributor to decarbonizing short-sea shipping. Additionally, the use of diesel-electric propulsion leads to a notable reduction in operational costs, further enhancing the vessel's overall efficiency and economic viability.

"We are delighted to officially begin building on our fleet renewal with Thecla Bodewes Shipyards," said Helen Tveitan, CEO of Carisbrooke Shipping. "The LABRAX 7680 vessels perfectly align with our commitment to sustainable operations and technological innovation. It's a proud and promising moment for the future of our fleet."

Building for a Sustainable Future
"This ceremonial first weld marks the symbolic and practical start of a shipbuilding process rooted in craftsmanship and innovation," said Thecla Bodewes, CEO of Thecla Bodewes Shipyards. "Together with Carisbrooke, we're taking the proven LABRAX design into a new partnership—focused on delivering future-ready, efficient, and environmentally responsible vessels."

A second vessel for Carisbrooke is scheduled to follow BN 375, further strengthening the collaboration and supporting the company's goal of operating one of the most modern and sustainable short-sea fleets in Europe and beyond.