Norway's aquaculture fleet expands and enters emergency planning

The Norwegian aquaculture industry is seeing rapid growth in the use of bleeding boats, also known as processing boats. From just one vessel in 2018, the fleet has grown to approximately 35 boats operated by 11 shipping companies, primarily in Southern Norway. These specialized vessels are used to stun, kill, and bleed salmon and trout on board before transporting them in refrigerated tanks, a method driven by increased requirements for biosecurity, fish welfare, and cost-effective transport.

Separately, following a water crisis in Kirkenes, Kystrederiene and the Brønnbåteiernes forening (BREF) are calling for wellboat capacity to be integrated into Norway's national emergency preparedness plans. While typically used for fish treatment, these vessels have the capability to produce, store, and transport large quantities of fresh water from seawater. BREF representatives noted that their member fleet has the capacity to produce up to 6,000 cubic meters of fresh water per day, a resource they argue should be formalized through concrete agreements and practical exercises for use during community crises.