Baffin Fisheries' New 'State of the Art' Vessel Christened in Iqaluit

Baffin Fisheries, a Canadian-owned fishing company, has christened its new vessel Inuksuk II, the largest Canadian-owned fishing vessel in the country. The ship, valued at $72 million, will be used for turbot and shrimp fishing in Arctic waters and will offload its cargo in Newfoundland. The vessel will create more jobs for Inuit and is expected to be more efficient than its predecessor due to its larger size.

Baffin Fisheries, a Canadian-owned fishing company, has christened its new vessel, Inuksuk II, marking a significant milestone in the Arctic fishing industry. The vessel, valued at $72 million, is now the largest Canadian-owned fishing vessel in the country [1].

Inuksuk II, a factory freezer trawler, will primarily focus on turbot and shrimp fishing in Arctic waters, with its cargo offloaded in Newfoundland. The ship's dimensions are impressive, with a length of 80 metres and a width of 18 metres, capable of carrying up to 1,300 tonnes of frozen-at-sea turbot or 930 tonnes of shrimp [1].

The christening ceremony, held in Iqaluit, was attended by at least 50 employees, board members, government officials, and community members. Baffin Fisheries president Kavavow Mikijuk expressed pride in the new vessel, stating that it will allow the company to stay in the Eastern Arctic for longer periods without docking, thereby increasing efficiency [1].

The vessel is also expected to create more jobs for Inuit, aligning with Baffin Fisheries' goal of supporting local communities. The new range of computers for mapping and improved internet service in crew quarters will enhance the crew's working conditions and connectivity [2].

The journey to acquire and operate Inuksuk II has been challenging, with several delays and challenges including COVID-19 restrictions and a Russian attack on a Ukrainian metal supplier [2]. Despite these hurdles, the vessel has arrived and is ready to set sail, marking a significant achievement for Baffin Fisheries and the Inuit communities it serves.

References:
[1] https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/north/inuksuk-ii-christening-1.7598806
[2] https://nunatsiaq.com/stories/article/largest-canadian-owned-fishing-vessel-christened-in-iqaluit/