A prototype sailing catamaran has launched aiming to revive wind propulsion for artisanal fishing and reduce the environmental footprint of coastal fisheries.
With funding from the European Maritime and Fisheries Fund, the Skravik project, based in Finistère in Brittany, has bought a second-hand Corneel 26 catamaran and adapted it for use in commercial fishing.
After being upgraded to a working sailboat in the second half of 2021, the vessel is now being tested under real fishing conditions using lines, nets, longlines and traps.
The Skravik project was founded in 2017 by Tangi Le Bot, a professional sailor and doctor in marine ecology. Originally concerned with scientific expeditions the project turned to a more entrepreneurial focus in 2020.
A fishing laboratory
The sheltered waters off Brest in northwest France provide an ideal testing ground for the catamaran. The project partners are not only researching the feasibility of sail power but also studying how best to distribute seafood in local chains, reducing food miles and cooperating with consumers to make the most of all the species caught.
They also plan to share expertise with other projects, promoting the development and uptake of similar sustainable techniques. Skravik is continuing its research and looking to apply the technology to larger vessels and a wider range of fishing techniques, including offshore fishing.
