TB Shipyards To Showcase Vessels at Breakbulk Europe

At Breakbulk Europe 2025, Thecla Bodewes Shipyards will showcase its standardized, diesel-electric propelled vessel series – designed in-house and ready to meet the evolving demands of breakbulk and project cargo transport. Find out more below about the shipbuilder’s growing portfolio of vessels, from coasters to MPVs.

In an industry where reliability, efficiency, and delivery speed matter more than ever, Thecla Bodewes Shipyards is proving that innovation doesn’t always have to start from scratch. Instead of custom one-offs, the Dutch shipbuilder focuses on a strong and growing portfolio of standardized vessel series – built with smart engineering, modular flexibility, and sustainability at their core.

Backed by fully in-house design and engineering, each vessel series is developed to serve a clear market need. From diesel-electric coasters to multipurpose cargo ships, the shipyard’s series concepts offer proven performance while still allowing for practical adaptations to meet specific owner or trade requirements.

“We don’t reinvent the wheel with every project,” says CEO Thecla Bodewes. “We’ve invested years into developing efficient, future-ready vessel series that serve the breakbulk and project cargo market. Our clients benefit from fast lead times, operational reliability, and sustainable propulsion—all built into the design.”

Labrax Series: A New Standard

A prime example is the Labrax series, currently under construction for Vertom Group as well as for Carisbrooke Shipping. The series features diesel-electric propulsion, optimized cargo holds, and reduced fuel consumption—an ideal solution for high-demand breakbulk and multipurpose operators.

The first seven ships in the series, including MV Vertom Patty and MV Vertom Cyta, are already demonstrating exceptional performance in commercial service. Their energy efficiency, quiet operation, and ability to handle diverse cargo types have positioned them as a benchmark for modern coasters.

Portfolio Depth: Salmo, Gadus, Ferox & Caranx Series

Alongside the Labrax vessels, Thecla Bodewes Shipyards is also producing its Salmo, Gadus, Ferox and Caranx series – each targeting specific cargo profiles and operational settings. Whether it’s heavy project components, sensitive breakbulk, or mixed cargo, these vessels offer ready-made solutions with high reliability and lifecycle value.

Smaller Ships, Smarter Thinking

For operators seeking compact and flexible tonnage, the shipyard has also introduced a new generation of 2500 - 4000 DWT diesel-electric cargo vessels. These ships offer shallow draft capability, low emissions, and efficient port operations—making them an excellent fit for regional and short-sea breakbulk trades.

Strong Orderbook, Strong Partnerships

With a full pipeline of ongoing builds and continued investment in sustainable propulsion technology, Thecla Bodewes Shipyards is well-positioned to support logistics providers, fleet owners, and cargo specialists in their shift toward cleaner and more efficient shipping.

Thecla Bodewes Shipyards will be exhibiting Breakbulk Europe 2025. Meet the team at Stand 2K51.

Top photo: TB Shipyards' Gadus series of dry cargo vessels. Credit: TB Shipyards