Thecla Bodewes wins four-ship deal
Rendering of the new cargo vessel
(Source: Thecla Bodewes)
The Netherland's Thecla Bodewes Shipyards has clinched a four-ship contract from Faroe Islands-based family-owned shipowner, Navigare Shipping. The four Gadus 5600-type vessels of the shipyard’s own design will be the first newbuildings ordered by Navigare; so far, the company has built up its 15-ship fleet with secondhand acquisitions.
The 5,600dwt vessels will have fuel-efficient diesel-electric engines and advanced automation and control systems. They will be no bigger than the largest ships in the company’s fleet but will have significantly more cargo capacity and much lower fuel consumption.
The ships be ready for the future with electric propulsion and scope to adopt alternative fuels, batteries and mechanical sails. They will also be fitted with electrical cargo gear that can run on shore power.
Álvur Højgaard, Navigare Shipping CEO, commented: “We have put a lot of effort into designing these ships, ensuring that we can offer our clients competitive and sustainable solutions in the future. With this investment, we are ensuring that Navigare Shipping maintains a strong position in our market, and we look forward to getting these ships on the water.”
Thecla Bodewes Shipyards CEO, Thecla Bodewes, said: “Working with a new client for the first time is always a proud moment. Given the nature of this contract, which holds significant potential for sustainable shipping, we are particularly pleased to have been selected by Navigare Shipping. We are looking forward to cooperating together on the delivery of these four vessels, and to building a close relationship for the long-term.”
Navigare Shipping, set up in 1966, has offices in Iceland, Norway, Poland and Scotland. The company employs 35 staff in the Faroe Islands and has 200 seafarers on its books.
The Dutch shipbuilder specialises in multipurpose short-sea vessels, shallow-water tugs and pushers, and dredgers. It has delivered more than 350 ships so far, 25 of which have been powered by diesel-electric, LNG-electric or hydrogen-electric systems.
The first two Gadus vessels are due for delivery in 2026.
