KfW IPEX-Bank is providing financial support to Carisbrooke Shipping for its fleet renewal initiative. The British shipping company will receive approximately EUR 26 million, backed by the Dutch export credit insurance company Atradius.
Carisbrooke Shipping, based in the UK, operates a fleet of multipurpose freighters and general cargo vessels. The funds will be allocated to construct two new 7,700 dwt general cargo vessels at Thecla Bodewes Shipyards in the Netherlands. This move aims to rejuvenate and modernize Carisbrooke's fleet.
The ships, part of the 'Labrax' series, will feature diesel-electric propulsion systems designed for fuel efficiency and sustainability. They also have an innovative bow shape that contributes to a reduced carbon footprint. There is potential for future conversion of the engines to low-carbon fuels. These vessels are expected to be delivered in 2026 and will operate within European short sea shipping routes.
Andreas Ufer, Member of the Management Board of KfW IPEX-Bank, stated: "We are very pleased to support our new customer Carisbrooke Shipping in this European project with our financing and to support its fleet renewal for environmentally friendly and sustainable maritime freight transport." He added that this financing underscores their commitment "to supporting our customers in the transformation to climate-friendly and CO2-efficient shipping."