Engine company Yanmar America has completed the installation of powerful and fuel-efficient marine diesel engines in the two Maine lobster boats, Mattie & Ayva (Wesmac 50) and KGB (Libby 47), both based out of Bucks Harbour.
Mattie & Ayva is a new vessel while KGB has been given a new lease of life with a Yanmar repower.
Both vessels are powered by the Yanmar 6AYEM-ET common-rail, marine diesel engine. This tough and reliable six-cylinder turbo-charged engine boasts high torque and power with easy maintenance.
The 6AYEM-ET also employs advanced engine control technology to minimise NOx emissions without compromising on power. Careful control of the fuel injection pressure reduces CO2 and NOx emissions allowing the vessel to meet IMO Tier II and EPA Tier 3 regulations.
“More and more owners are looking at the Yanmar engine as a way to increase the power of their vessel without compromising on reliability or fuel efficiency,” said Yanmar America Account Manager Peter Powell who participated in the commissioning and sea trials of both vessels. “The lobster boat and license are something that these operators will likely be passing onto their kids, so they’re looking for a reliable, long-term investment.”
Maine lobster boats – often called the “pickup of the sea” – typically range in size from 22 to 40 feet. The wooden boats of yesteryear have largely given way to fiberglass designs which are both stronger and require less maintenance.
The fleet has also been growing in size and complexity, with modern vessels incorporating hydraulic haulers, bottom depth sounders, radar and GPS.
Maine supplies over 80% of the world’s lobster catch through a fleet of thousands of individual lobster fishers who own and operate their own small businesses. The lobster is harvested by hand and contributes over US$1 billion annually to the Maine economy.
