Norwegian catamaran ready to take on groundfishing

Norway’s fishing fleet has a sleek new addition. The catamaran Seingen, recently delivered by shipbuilder Mundal Båt to family-owned Sjøliv, is turning heads as one of the few catamaran fishing boats operating in the country. Unlike the many catamarans supporting salmon and trout aquaculture, Seingen will focus on species like cod, haddock, and saithe along Finnmark’s rugged coastline.

This state-of-the-art vessel replaces Sjøliv’s previous boat, also named Seingen, which the company acquired in 2020. The new catamaran measures 50 feet long and 30 feet wide, offering ample deck space and stability that outperforms a monohull design. According to a report by Baird Maritime, the twin hulls also minimize surface resistance, making the vessel more efficient while boasting a projected lifespan of 70 years.

The catamaran measures 50 feet long and 30 feet wide, offering ample deck space and stability that outperforms a monohull design. Photo by Mundal Båt

Power and versatility are at the heart of Seingen’s hybrid propulsion system. Equipped with two Scania DI9 diesel engines, two 50kW electric motors, and a 378kWh battery, the vessel can operate in multiple modes. Diesel mode provides higher speeds, while electric and hybrid options significantly reduce emissions. The boat’s top speed reaches 14 knots, with a fully loaded cruising speed of 10 knots.

Fishing operations are supported by a total fish room capacity of 2472 cubic feet, spread across two hull holds and a deck hold. Deck equipment from Lofoten Hydraulikk and a vacuum system by MMC First Process round out the fishing capabilities. With a composite sandwich hull that is lighter and more corrosion-resistant than traditional materials, Seingen promises reduced energy needs, better insulation, and improved durability.

Facilities include two single cabins, a double cabin, a mess, a galley, a lounge, and a shared toilet. Photo by Mundal Båt

Comfort and functionality extend below deck, with accommodations including two single cabins, a double cabin, a galley, a lounge, and standing-height engine compartments for easy maintenance.

Designed by Maritime Engineering, a subsidiary of Mundal Båt, Seingen is ready to tackle Norway’s northern waters with efficiency and sustainability in mind. This remarkable vessel signals innovation for Norway’s groundfish fisheries, offering a glimpse into the future of fishing technology.

For full specs on the Seingen, visit Baird Maritime.