Royal T Shipyards Kampen, founded by Bodewes, has successfully launched MPV Greta C, the first vessel in a new series of LABRAX 7680 dwt multipurpose dry cargo vessels being built for UK-based shipowner Carisbrooke Shipping. The launch marks a significant milestone in the long-standing collaboration between Royal T Shipyards and Carisbrooke Shipping and underscores the shared ambition of both companies to advance efficient and sustainable maritime transport.
At the same time, the project highlights the strength of the Dutch maritime
manufacturing ecosystem. The vessel has been realised in close cooperation with a
network of highly specialised Dutch suppliers and maritime partners. Their expertise and close coordination with the yard enable an efficient construction process and contribute significantly to the speed, quality and reliability for which Dutch shipbuilding is internationally recognised.
Designed for the future of short-sea shipping
The LABRAX 7680 series has been developed to meet the evolving demands of modern short-sea shipping. Combining operational flexibility with improved environmental performance, the vessels are equipped with a diesel-electric propulsion system that substantially reduces fuel consumption and emissions compared to conventional vessels in this segment. While optimised for European short-sea trades, the vessels are also capable of operating on longer international routes, including voyages to regions such as South America. This versatility provides operators with greater trading flexibility while maintaining high efficiency and environmental standards.
Helen Tveitan, CEO of Carisbrooke Shipping:"The MPV Greta C represents more than just a new vessel for our fleet; it reflects the strong partnership we have built with Royal T Shipyards. With this series we are investing in efficient, future-ready tonnage that supports our ambition to operate one of the most sustainable fleets in the short-sea sector."
A ceremony connecting generations
The christening ceremony carried a personal and symbolic character. Mrs. Greta
Croucher-de Vries, spouse of one of Carisbrooke Shipping’s founding members and the vessel’s namesake, appointed her granddaughters as joint godmothers to christen the vessel. “The launch of Greta C beautifully reflects the continuity of our maritime traditions,” said Thecla Bodewes, CEO of Royal T Shipyards. “Seeing Greta’s granddaughters christen the vessel makes this moment especially meaningful. Shipbuilding is not only about innovation and performance — it is also about heritage, craftsmanship and the generations who continue to build the future of our industry.”
Next-generation design: performance, efficiency and lower emissions
The LABRAX 7680 series represents a new generation of multipurpose dry cargo vessels designed for efficiency, flexibility and lower environmental impact.
The vessels feature a deadweight of 7,680 tonnes, a length of 118.60 metres and a beam of 14.30 metres. Cargo capacity consists of two full-box cargo holds with a total volume of 329,700 cubic feet, allowing for efficient handling of a wide range of dry cargoes.
At the core of the design is a diesel-electric propulsion system combined with an
advanced power management system. This configuration significantly reduces fuel
consumption and emissions compared to traditional propulsion systems in this
deadweight range, contributing to the decarbonisation of short-sea shipping.
The diesel-electric setup also reduces operational costs and increases operational
flexibility, further strengthening the vessel’s commercial attractiveness.
Following final outfitting and sea trials, MPV Greta C will be delivered to Carisbrooke
Shipping and join the company’s modern fleet of multipurpose dry cargo vessels.
About Carisbrooke Shipping
With offices in Cowes (UK) and Rotterdam (NL), Carisbrooke Shipping manages a
versatile fleet of more than 20 modern dry cargo and multipurpose vessels. The company manages all core operations in-house, including technical and safety management, crewing and finance, and has built a strong reputation for safety, reliability and fuel-efficient operations.
