£1.2 Million Landing Craft Delivered to Bakkafrost Scotland

Bakkafrost Scotland, one of the leading salmon producers in the region, has recently taken delivery of a state-of-the-art landing craft valued at £1.2 million. This impressive vessel was constructed by Bute Boat Builders, a prominent boat builder located on the west coast of Scotland.

Vessel Details and Purpose

The newly launched craft, named Spirit of Bute, is designated for operations at Bakkafrost Scotland’s farm sites situated in Loch Striven, Argyll, Bute, and Arran. The name was thoughtfully chosen by 11-year-old Callum Perlich, the son of James Perlich, who manages the Ardyne farm site.

Investment in Local Industry

This latest acquisition marks Bakkafrost Scotland’s cumulative investment in boatbuilding on Bute at an impressive £7.2 million across seven vessels. This commitment not only fulfills the operational requirements of the company but also significantly bolsters the skilled labor market and the broader marine supply chain on the island.

Features of Spirit of Bute

With dimensions of 19.5 meters by 7.5 meters, the Spirit of Bute continues a lineage of successful builds for Bakkafrost Scotland on Bute, joining the likes of Maid of Ulva, Clare Anne, and Lady Charlotte. The vessel is equipped with an FNC8 net washing system, which is essential for maintaining clear nets underwater, thus supporting fish health and welfare by ensuring optimal water flow through the pens.

Additionally, Spirit of Bute is outfitted with a six-tonne crane and crew accommodation, facilitating essential lifting work and daily operational tasks across multiple sites.

Statements from Key Officials

Iain Laister, the managing director at Bakkafrost Scotland, emphasized the importance of this new vessel, stating:

“Spirit of Bute is an important addition to our fleet and a major investment in our farming operations in Loch Striven and Arran. It has been built around the day-to-day needs of our operations and will play a key role in work on-site, from net cleaning to lifting and general farm support.”

Laister also highlighted the significance of supporting the skilled workforce in the local supply chain, stating:

“This latest order reflects the standard of work being delivered by Bute Boat Builders, and also represents investment in a skilled west coast supply chain with deep experience of the aquaculture sector.”

Ewen Ferguson, director at Bute Boat Builders, echoed these sentiments:

“Building Spirit of Bute for Bakkafrost Scotland has been hugely valuable for the island’s economy, helping sustain specialist boatbuilding skills and allowing them to be passed on to the next generation. It has been a pleasure to build Spirit of Bute for Bakkafrost Scotland and we are grateful for their continued support of local yards.”

Conclusion

The launch of the Spirit of Bute not only represents a significant operational upgrade for Bakkafrost Scotland but also reinforces the strong bond between local businesses and communities. As the company continues to invest in its fleet and the local economy, it remains committed to ensuring sustainable practices within the aquaculture industry.

Image: Spirit of Bute continues a run of Bakkafrost Scotland builds on Bute, Bakkafrost Scotland