Norwegian shipyard Salthammer Båtbyggeri has secured a contract from vessel operator Charvest to build a hybrid service vessel for aquaculture operations.
The vessel, designated yard number 160, will be constructed at Salthammer’s facilities in Vestnes, Norway, with delivery scheduled for September 2027. It will be the third newbuild collaboration between the two companies.
The vessel will be based on the CoastCat 21eH design developed by Tomra Engineering. It will measure 21.2 metres in length with a beam of 12 metres and has been adapted to meet Charvest’s operational requirements for fish farming support services.
The hybrid propulsion system combines a battery package with shore power charging capability, allowing zero-emission operations while working alongside fish pens. The configuration is expected to reduce fuel consumption, emissions and operational noise.
The vessel will feature a heavy-duty working deck, two cranes and accommodation for four crew members in single cabins.
“This contract strengthens an already well-established cooperation between our companies. Having delivered two vessels to Charvest previously, we look forward to continuing our collaboration on this new project,” said Lasse Stokkeland, managing director of Salthammer Båtbyggeri.
Charvest managing director Ole-André Leine said the company’s previous experience with the yard was decisive in selecting the builder again.
“After two successful vessel deliveries, returning to Salthammer for our third project was a natural choice. The yard has a strong track record in service vessels, and we are confident in the quality of the final product,” he said.
Charvest provides service and fish bleeding operations for the aquaculture industry. The company took delivery of its first vessel in 2020 and a second in 2024, with the newbuild expected to expand the fleet to three vessels.
Founded in 1896, Salthammer Båtbyggeri is Norway’s oldest continuously operating shipyard and specialises in vessel construction and steel structures.