Third 'Labrax' Newbuild Launched for Carisbrooke of Cowes

29th June 2026

Jehan Ashmore

The newest Carisbrooke newbuild carries a special story, as the vessel is named after Heleen Wester, just as the same series ship, Greta C, was named after Greta. Both women are the partners of Carisbrooke Shipping's founding members, making this series a tribute to the families behind both companies. Credit: Royal T Shipyards -Linkedin

At a Dutch shipyard a newbuild was launched for Carisbrooke Shipping of Cowes, Isle of Wight.

The Royal T Shipyards at their Harlingen yard is where the MV Heleen C, a 7,720 dwt general cargo vessel, took to the waters last Friday.

The vessel represents the second launch this year within Carisbrooke’s ongoing fleet renewal programme, following the delivery of MC Greta C, another of the same LABRAX series, which enables increasing carrying capacity while maintaining operational reliability and efficiency.

The lead ship, MV Jill C, was launched last year, which also uses the latest in diesel-electric technology.

As Afloat reported, MV Greta C became the 100th newbuild since the shipowners' foundation. Currently the company operates more than 20 modern dry cargo and multi-purpose vessels from the head office in Cowes and also Rotterdam.

The latest Labrax is designed for European trading and features advanced environmentally friendly technology, including diesel-electric propulsion, cold ironing capability, and an innovative energy management system.

With an optimised hull design and improved fuel efficiency, the MV Helleen C reflects Carisbrooke Shipping’s continued commitment to sustainability, operational performance, and innovation within the maritime industry.

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About The Author

Jehan Ashmore

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Jehan Ashmore is a marine correspondent, researcher and photographer, specialising in Irish ports, shipping and the ferry sector serving the UK and directly to mainland Europe. Jehan also occasionally writes a column, 'Maritime' Dalkey for the (Dalkey Community Council Newsletter) in addition to contributing to UK marine periodicals.

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