Thecla Bodewes Shipyards has laid the keel of Hav Leiti, the first vessel in the new GADUS series of four 5600-DWT dry cargo vessels. The vessel is being built for Navigare Shipping.
The Hav Leiti is the first of four highly efficient and sustainable cargo ships designed in close cooperation between Navigare Shipping, based in the Faroe Islands, and Thecla Bodewes Shipyards in the Netherlands. These modern vessels are designed to meet the highest standards of efficiency, durability, and environmental sustainability, while being ready for future alternative power sources.
‘The keel laying of Hav Leiti represents the start of a new era in sustainable cargo shipping,’ says Thecla Bodewes, CEO at Thecla Bodewes Shipyards. ‘This vessel series is a reflection to our dedication to innovation, reliability, and efficiency in shipbuilding. We are honored to collaborate with Navigare Shipping to deliver vessels that set new industry standards.’
The festive keel laying ceremony was attended by the owners of Navigare Shipping and the management of Thecla Bodewes Shipyards. In keeping with good maritime tradition, a special coin was welded onto the keel, symbolizing good fortune and safe voyages for the vessel and its crew.
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GADUS series
With a deadweight tonnage of 5600 DWT, the GADUS series is designed to optimise fuel efficiency while ensuring maximum cargo capacity and operational versatility. The vessels incorporate the latest advancements in shipbuilding technology to enhance sustainability and performance in global shipping operations.
The Hav Leiti is equipped with a diesel-electric propulsion system comprising four generator sets and a fixed-pitch propeller in a nozzle, ensuring minimal fuel consumption and reduced emissions, while delivering excellent manoeuvrability. Additionally, the vessel is compliant with IMO Tier-3 regulations and is equipped with a sewage treatment plant for environmentally responsible sailing in the Baltic area.
Further sustainability measures include a shore transformer system, allowing for emission-free discharging while in port, and an electric self-discharger on a wagon, enhancing cargo handling efficiency. The vessel also boasts a very high cubic cargo hold, making it ideal for various cargo types.
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Delivery in spring 2026
The entire vessel has been in-house engineered by Thecla Bodewes Shipyards and is equipped with an advanced automation system, ensuring optimal performance, safety, and reliability throughout operations.
The construction of Hav Leiti will continue in the coming months And the delivery of the first vessel is scheduled for spring 2026, followed by the completion of the remaining ships in the series.
Picture (top): Keel laying of the Hav Leiti at Thecla Bodewes Shipyards (photo by Thecla Bodewes Shipyards).
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