AWARDS 2024 | Best Medium Factory Trawler – Jan Maria – Skipsteknisk

Jan Maria is a very impressive, very modern and very well equipped trawler designed and built for a very experienced and substantial German owner.

Built very solidly and finely crafted, she is intended to operate in the very trying, cold and often rough waters of the far North Atlantic Ocean and Arctic.

As well as being equipped with the best of everything currently available for fishing, processing, freezing and storage, she is very comfortable, safe and dry. She will serve her owners and crew very well.

"She is designed to be highly efficient in terms of catch relative to fuel consumption," Vegard Nesset Hjelvik, Sales Manager Fisheries and Aquaculture at Skipsteknisk, told Baird Maritime.

"That balance between operational performance and environmental responsibility makes it a standout vessel in today’s fishing fleet. In addition, extra attention was given to the crew accommodation during the design phase - ensuring a comfortable living and working environment, which also supports better overall efficiency and crew well-being."

Hjelvik said that, when designing Jan Maria and sister ship Gadus, Skipsteknisk gathered input and experience from both owners to create efficient and well-adapted vessels, as such a collaborative approach was deemed essential.

"We also dedicated extra attention to the overall design and visual appearance of the vessels. It reinforced how valuable owner involvement is throughout the design phase - not just for functionality, but for creating a vessel that truly reflects their identity."

Hjelvik believes that the global fishing industry will continue progressing towards greater efficiency, sustainability, and digitalisation.

"There’s a strong push to reduce fuel consumption and emissions, which is generating interest in new and more environmentally friendly technologies. At the same time, advancements in automation and data integration are playing a key role in optimising operations and enhancing traceability throughout the value chain."

In certain regions and segments, there is a growing shift towards slightly smaller vessels. This trend is largely driven by the need to adapt to current quota levels and future expectations.

"It reflects a more strategic and flexible approach to fleet development—one that balances operational needs with economic considerations and evolving regulatory frameworks," Hjelvik told Baird Maritime.

For a list of the 2024 "Best Of" award winners, please click here.