Seattle-based Arctic Storm Management Group has collaborated with Rolls-Royce to build a 328-foot state-of-the-art pelagic trawler with shipbuilder Thoma-Sea Marine Constructor in Houma, La.
The new trawler will be a Rolls-Royce NVC 336 WP — about 328 feet long with a beam of about 69 feet — designed for pelagic trawl operation in the North Pacific, catching Alaska pollock and cod, and scheduled for delivery in 2021. The vessel will be equipped with a processing plant for fillets, surimi, fishmeal and fish oil, along with advanced ship technology and gear. It will accommodate a crew of more than 150.
“This will be the largest and most advanced fishing vessel ever to be built in the U.S.," said Doug Christensen, Arctic Storm Management Group CEO. "The fact that both the design and the supply and integration of the comprehensive equipment package is provided from, and coordinated by, Rolls-Royce is a key enabler for us.”
Rolls-Royce will supply the propulsion system based around a Bergen B33:45 main engine in combination with Bergen generator sets — the arrangement aimed at meeting requirements for low fuel consumption, reduced emissions, and low noise and vibration levels. The company will also supply the bow thruster, deck machinery systems, automation & control systems, power electrical system, steering gear and a flap rudder.
The deal is the largest fishing vessel contract to date for Rolls-Royce with a price tag of roughly $20 million.
“We are very happy about this contract, which could open possibilities within a new segment for us," said Walter Thomassie, managing director of Thoma-Sea Marine Constructor. "Our Louisiana-based shipyard and Rolls-Royce have worked well together before, and we feel confident that this project will follow the same successful path.”
“It is a critical factor,” added Christensen, “to have a technology partner with a strong presence in the region who are able to support the construction of the vessel at the yard, in addition to having a strong service organization to support us during operations. We strive towards continuous improvement in everything we do, however this investment will take us a giant step forward.”
