Aker QRILL Company announces construction of newest fishing vessel

Image | adobe.stock/Madeleine Steinbach

Krill, potentially one of the most bountiful multi-cell organisms on the planet¹, is known to be a good source for omega-3 fatty acids, among other health benefits. The Aker QRILL Company, leader in krill harvesting and creation of other krill-based ingredients, announced in a recent press release² an agreement with Tersan Shipyard to build the company’s fourth krill fishing vessel.

With the new ship construction, it brings a new milestone for both companies. For Aker QRILL Company, it marks an important move toward providing a strong position in the krill industry¹. Regarding Tersan Shipyard, this assists them in finding a buyer for a ship that was nearly finished in 2023.

"This partnership represents an ideal solution for both parties," said Webjørn Barstad, CEO of Aker QRILL Company, in the press release². "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."

In order to meet the specific demands needed for the Aker QRILL Company, the ship will have to be customized and rebuilt to their specifications. "We are glad to finally find a solution to a challenge we have been working hard to solve. This partnership provides valuable opportunities for both parties, and we are grateful for the chance to complete and deliver this vessel," expressed Ahmet Paksu, Vice President of Tersan Shipyard². "Partnering with Aker QRILL Company, the global leader in sustainable krill fishery, aligns perfectly with our vision of innovation and excellence."

It is anticipated that this new ship will begin CCAMLR krill fishery operations in the third quarter of 2026 under a Norwegian fisheries license².

References

1. WebMD Editorial Contributor. Krill oil: Health benefits, nutrients per serving, things to watch out for, and more https://www.webmd.com/diet/health-benefits-krill-oil (accessed Jan 9, 2025).
2. Sandstø, T. Aker QRILL company announces next vessel https://www.qrillaqua.com/blog-and-news/aker-qrill-company-announces-next-vessel (accessed Jan 9, 2025).