KfW IPEX-Bank is providing €26m (US$28m) to finance the construction of two identical modern 7,700 dwt general cargo vessels for Carisbrooke Shipping. The vessels have been ordered from Thecla Bodewes Shipyards in the Netherlands. The financing is covered by the Dutch export credit insurance company Atradius.
Diesel-electric propulsion
The Labrax series ships have modern diesel-electric propulsion systems that are designed for fuel efficiency and sustainability, as well as a bow shape that also contributes to a good carbon footprint. The companies also highlight that there is potential to convert the diesel portion of the engine to run on CO2-neutral fuel. The ships are scheduled for delivery in 2026 and will be deployed in European short sea shipping.
Sustainable transportation goals
“We are very pleased to support our new customer Carisbrooke Shipping in this European project with our financing and to support its fleet renewal for environmentally friendly and sustainable maritime freight transport,” said Andreas Ufer, member of the management board of KfW IPEX-Bank.
“With this financing, we are once again emphasizing our commitment to supporting our customers in the transformation to climate-friendly and CO2-efficient shipping.”
In related news, Thecla Bodewes Shipyards recently completed the keel laying ceremony for Navigare Shipping’s Hav Leiti, the first of four vessels in the Gadus series of 5,600dwt dry cargo vessels. The delivery of the first vessel is scheduled for spring 2026. Click here to read the full story.