February 04, 2021
Austral Fisheries' Cape Arkona has taken out the Baird Maritime Award for 'Best Multi-Purpose Fishing Boat' following her completion in 2020.
The vessel was designed by Norway’s Skipskompetanse and built by compatriot Baatbygg. Both are globally renowned firms and leaders in their respective fields.
Cape Arkona was designed and built with innovation in mind, as well as versatility - she is capable of trawling, potting, auto-lining and fully processing and refrigerating its catch within a single trip. Crew comfort, safety and convenience are also prominent features, all the while being powered an economical diesel-electric energy system.
“There is no doubt,” Baatbygg told Baird Maritime, “that the most unique feature about the vessel is the combination of catch methods and the possibility to carry all the different necessary fishing gear at the same time. The propulsion and power train are also unique for this type of fishing vessel and as far as we know, it is the first configuration of this specific type to also be tied in with a battery system to create a true hybrid.
“The vessel is a testament to Austral Fisheries’ unique ability to think outside the box and at the same time staying true to their commitment of being carbon neutral and leaving a low environmental footprint.”
Both Baatbygg and Skipskompetanse agree that the need to minimise vessels’ environmental impact has begun having a growing influence on the fishing vessel newbuilding industry.
“Optimisation of the design to minimise operational costs as well as the carbon footprint is essential,” remarked Skipskompetanse.
Austral Fisheries would like to thank Baird Maritime for the award, and acknowledge the collaborative work between Baatbygg, Skipskompetanse and the team at Austral Fisheries who made this history-making project possible.
The Cape Arkona has already made her maiden voyage and early reports are very encouraging as Austral look to streamline on-board processes and allow crew to adjust to her layout.
You can take a virtual tour of the Cape Arkona here.
And fine more info on the award here.
See our previous articles on the Cape Arkona below:
Austral Fisheries' Cape Arkona - Progress Update
The Cape Arkona Departs Norway for Fremantle
Some comments and quotes in this article were sourced from Baird Maritime's interview here