Thecla Bodewes Shipyards has begun construction on building number 375, the first of two Labrax 7680 dwt vessels being built for Carisbrooke Shipping.
Low-emission design
Scheduled for delivery in 2026, BN 375 is a sister ship to the Labrax vessels currently under construction for the Vertom Group. According to Thecla Bodewes Shipyards, the Labrax 7680 series represents a new generation of multipurpose dry cargo vessels designed for operational flexibility and reduced environmental impact. The vessels will be 118.60m long, with a beam of 14.30m and a deadweight of 7,680 tons. They will also have two full-box cargo holds totaling 9,336m3.
At the heart of the design is a diesel-electric propulsion system integrated with a smart power management system. This configuration reduces fuel consumption and emissions compared with traditional vessels in this class, making the Labrax series a key contributor to decarbonizing short sea shipping. Additionally, the use of diesel-electric propulsion reportedly leads to a notable reduction in operational costs.
“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, 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.
In related news, Thecla Bodewes Shipyards recently christened and launched the MV Vertom Joyce. The eighth vessel in the Labrax series is a multipurpose dry cargo vessel that features an advanced diesel-electric propulsion system. Click here to read the full story.