Festive launching of trawler Z-19 'Brigitte' at IBIS Sumar

A new milestone in craftsmanship and collaboration

Last Saturday, the festive launching of the trawler Z-19 Brigitte took place at IBIS Constructie in Sumar. In the presence of family, colleagues, and guests, the 36-meter vessel, commissioned by the Belgian Thysebaerdt family, was solemnly christened and launched. Accompanied by an impressive show featuring sounds from shipbuilding and seafaring, the newly built trawler, designed by Naval Consultant Herman Jansen, received many compliments from colleagues from Belgium and the Netherlands.

Design and construction
The Z-19 Brigitte is a robust fishing trawler measuring 36 meters in length and 8 meters in beam, with a draft of 4.5 meters and a weight of approximately 225 tons. The vessel's lines and technical design were created by Naval Consultant Herman Jansen, based in Monnickendam. The hull was constructed by IBIS Constructie in Friesland, utilizing a complete steel package supplied by Centraalstaal. This solid steel structure forms the foundation of a modern trawler that will soon be operating from its home port of Zeebrugge, Belgium.

Launching and outlook
The launching was executed using three heavy cranes and a floating pontoon, ensuring a careful and controlled transfer into the water. The Thysebaerdt family and the management of IBIS were widely praised for the quality and craftsmanship displayed. While shipyard director Jan Visser remains optimistic about future orders, some potential clients are holding back due to uncertainties surrounding Brexit. For the Z-19 Brigitte, this launch marks a promising beginning towards her future role in the Belgian fishing fleet.