1



                                                                    EXHIBIT 23.1








                         Consent of Independent Auditors


We consent to the incorporation by reference in the Registration Statement (Form
S-8 No. 333-49239) pertaining to the UNIFAB International, Inc. Long-Term
Incentive Plan and Restricted Stock Agreements with Certain Employees of our
report dated May 25, 2000, with respect to the consolidated financial statements
of UNIFAB International, Inc., included in the Annual Report (Form 10-K) for the
year ended March 31, 2000.


                                            /s/ Ernst & Young LLP


New Orleans, Louisiana
June 26, 2000