A new krill catcher originally ordered by a Norwegian company and built at the Tersan yard in Turkey already has a chequered career – before having even started fishing – and is now about to go through a major rebuild.
The new vessel was ordered by Norwegian krill operator Rimfrost and constructed at Tersan, to be completed at Westcon in Norway, until contractual disputes brought that relationship to an end and the trawler remained at the yard in Turkey as the contratc was cancelled in 2023.
The vessel subsequently came into the ownership of Aker BioMarine Antarctic – now the Aker QRILL Company.
A substantial rebuild is now in progress as the new vessel is being modified to fit in with Aker’s operational requirements. This includes a 25-metre lengthening, and a process of technological integration and customisation designed to maximise efficiency in krill harvesting while ensuring compliance with Norwegian fishing regulations and reinforcing sustainable feed production and marine-based nutrition.
The trawler has been taken out of the water and the cutting phase for the extension has been completed, marking a significant milestone in the transformation process.
‘This partnership represents an ideal solution for both parties,’ said CEO Webjørn Barstad.
‘Adding a fourth vessel to our fleet is crucial for our success as we enter the next phase of growth and development. Equipped with the latest and most advanced technologies, this vessel will bolster our ambition to maintain our leadership position in the krill industry and ensure access to renewable and sustainable marine raw materials – vital to meet the growing global demand for sustainable marine feed ingredients with excellent nutritional qualities.”
