Royal T Shipyards proudly celebrates the launch of Heleen C, the second vessel in the new series of LABRAX 7,680ton dwt multipurpose dry cargo vessels being built for UK-based shipowner Carisbrooke Shipping. The launch marks another important milestone in the long-standing relationship between both family-owned companies and confirms the success of the upgraded LABRAX concept.
Following the delivery of her sister vessel Greta C earlier this year, Heleen C continues the next chapter in the evolution of one of Europe’s most successful short-sea vessel designs.
Building on a proven partnership
The construction of Heleen C once again demonstrates the strength of the Dutch maritime manufacturing sector. The vessel has been realised in close cooperation with a network of highly specialised Dutch suppliers and maritime partners. Their expertise, craftsmanship and close collaboration with Royal T Shipyards contribute to an efficient construction process and to the quality and reliability for which Dutch shipbuilding is internationally recognised.
The launch of Heleen C further strengthens the long-standing cooperation between Royal T Shipyards and Carisbrooke Shipping, a partnership built on mutual trust and a shared vision for efficient and sustainable shipping.
A vessel carrying family heritage
The naming of Heleen C also reflects the close and long-standing relationship between Royal T Shipyards and Carisbrooke Shipping. The vessel is named after Heleen Wester, who, like Greta – the namesake of the first LABRAX 7680 vessel – is the partner of one of Carisbrooke Shipping's founding members.
The naming tradition highlights the family values that continue to shape both companies and underlines the personal relationships that have been at the heart of this successful partnership for many years.
“Behind every ship are the people and families who have helped build these companies over generations,” said Thecla Bodewes, CEO of Royal T Shipyards. “Naming this vessel Heleen C is a wonderful tribute to those relationships and to the shared history between our organisations. It reminds us that shipbuilding is
not only about technology and innovation, but also about people, trust and continuity.”
The next generation of short-sea shipping
The LABRAX 7680 series has been developed to meet the changing demands of modern multipurpose shipping. Combining operational flexibility with improved environmental performance, the vessels are equipped with an advanced dieselelectric propulsion system and intelligent power management, significantly reducing fuel consumption and emissions compared with conventional vessels in this segment.
Designed primarily for European short-sea operations, the vessels are equally capable of trading on longer international routes, providing owners and operators with exceptional commercial flexibility.
A refined and successful concept
The LABRAX platform has already proven its value with the successful series of 7,280 dwt vessels delivered to Vertom Group. The new 7,680 dwt generation builds on this foundation, offering increased carrying capacity while maintaining the operational efficiency, reliability and versatility that have become synonymous with
the LABRAX name.
With a deadweight of 7,680 tonnes, a length of 118.60 metres and a beam of 14.30 metres, Heleen C features two full-box cargo holds with a combined capacity of 329,700 cubic feet, allowing for the efficient transportation of a wide range of dry cargoes.
A milestone before final completion
“The launch of Heleen C marks another important moment in our cooperation with Carisbrooke Shipping,” said Thecla Bodewes, CEO of Royal T Shipyards. “With this second vessel we continue to demonstrate that innovation often lies in continuously refining and improving proven concepts. The LABRAX 7680 series
offers shipowners a future-ready vessel that combines efficiency, flexibility and reduced environmental impact.”
Following the launch ceremony, Heleen C will enter her final outfitting and commissioning phase. The vessel is scheduled for delivery to Carisbrooke Shipping after the summer, when she will join her sister vessel Greta C in the company's modern and environmentally efficient fleet.
Looking ahead
With the launch of Heleen C, Royal T Shipyards and Carisbrooke Shipping reaffirm their shared commitment to innovation, operational excellence and sustainable maritime transport. The LABRAX 7680 series continues to set new standards for multipurpose vessels in the short-sea market, combining proven reliability with future-ready technology.
