Optimarin makes fishing breakthrough with America’s Finest trawler
Ballast water treatment (BWT) specialist Optimarin says it has landed its first ever contract in the fishing segment. The Norwegian firm will now supply its soon to be USCG approved Optimarin Ballast System (OBS) for the Skipsteknisk-designed America’s Finest. Seattle-based Fisherman’s Finest will own and operate the 80m long stern trawler, which is currently being completed at Washington State’s Dakota Creek Industries yard.
America’s Finest, a ST-116XL design, has been hailed as Skipsteknisk’s most environmentally friendly vessel to date. It combines a highly-efficient DNV GL classed +1A1 Ice 1B hull, reducing resistance in both ice and the open water, with the ability to tow, process and freeze its white- and ground fish catch at sea. Its operational area will span the North Pacific, Gulf of Alaska and Bering Sea.
“This is a genuinely exciting contract for Optimarin, marking a breakthrough into a sector with attractive growth potential and a need for proven environmental performance,” comments Optimarin CEO Tore Andersen.
“America’s Finest lives up to its name and will lead the way in standards for the entire Bering Sea fleet. Our system is the perfect match, with proven reliability, effectiveness and - thanks to its UV nature, where no chemicals are produced or discharged - impeccable environmental credentials.”
Andersen notes that OBS’ imminent USCG approval, the first of its kind for a UV based unit, also played a key role in its selection:
“USCG compliance was absolutely essential for a vessel with this kind of operational footprint. The power of the UV lamps in OBS, boasting a capacity of 35kw, ensures they can meet USCG’s strict FDA/CFMDA criteria, eliminating all potentially invasive marine organisms in ballast water.
“OBS satisfied USCG’s comprehensive marine water tests in 2015, with full approval now expected in autumn this year. This, along with our vast experience of providing flexible, reliable and easy to install technology, is a key selling point for any owner looking to trade in US waters.”
Optimarin has now sold over 370 of its systems to shipowners across the world, with more than 270 installed, over 60 of which are retrofits. Its worldwide engineering agreements with Goltens and Zeppelin Power Systems ensure it offers its technology where and when it’s needed, meeting all individual client requirements.
The new system is scheduled for delivery and installation onboard America’s Finest in April this year. Alongside its high-efficiency and advanced BWT solution, the vessel offers accommodation for 49 people, hospital facilities, and is completely insulated to protect crew from the harsh conditions of its Northern operating areas.
Other shipowners that have chosen OBS include Saga Shipholding, MOL, Grieg Shipping Group, Gulf Offshore, Farstad Shipping, NYK, Nor Line, and Evergreen Marine Corp, amongst others. The system is fully approved by IMO and certified through DNV GL, Lloyd’s, Bureau Veritas, MLIT Japan, and American Bureau of Shipping.