Inverlussa Marine Services has welcomed a major boost to Scotland’s growing fish farming industry with the delivery of the Naomi Jennifer, a 25-meter hybrid aquaculture support vessel. Built by Macduff Shipyards and delivered in late 2025, this advanced boat meets the rising needs of larger offshore operations, blending diesel and electric power for better efficiency and lower emissions.
Vessel Details and Design Features
The Naomi Jennifer stands out as Inverlussa’s 23rd vessel, tailored for the demands of modern salmon farming. Its hybrid system allows it to switch between diesel and battery power, cutting fuel use and environmental impact in Scotland’s coastal waters.
This design comes from Macduff Ship Design, focusing on handling bigger nets and heavier equipment at exposed sites. The vessel measures 25 meters long, with strong cranes and ample deck space for tasks like net cleaning and fish health checks.
Key specs include:
- Length: 25 meters
- Power: Hybrid diesel-electric
- Capacity: Supports larger farms with heavy gear
- Crew: Space for efficient operations in rough seas
Experts note this setup reduces noise and pollution, vital for marine life around farms.
The build process took about 18 months, reflecting Scotland’s push for sustainable tech in aquaculture.
Impact on Scotland’s Fish Farming Sector
Scotland’s fish farming has boomed, with salmon exports hitting record highs in 2025. The sector added over 30 percent to the economy last year, driven by demand for eco-friendly practices.
Inverlussa, a key player, now operates across the UK and Europe, servicing contracts for major producers like Cooke Aquaculture. The Naomi Jennifer will help with de-lousing and maintenance, tackling issues like sea lice that plague farms.
This vessel arrives amid trends toward bigger, more remote farms to boost output while protecting the environment. Recent data shows Scotland produced over 200,000 tons of salmon in 2025, up from previous years.
Farmers face challenges like harsher weather and stricter rules on emissions. Hybrid vessels like this one offer a practical solution, blending power with green tech.
Broader Trends in Hybrid Marine Technology
Hybrid vessels are gaining traction worldwide, with Scotland leading in aquaculture support. Similar boats have been ordered from Dutch builders like Nauplius Workboats, showing a shift to cleaner energy.
In 2025, global hybrid ship orders rose by 15 percent, per industry reports. This mirrors efforts in other sectors, like ferries, where diesel-electric models cut costs and carbon footprints.
Scotland’s government backs these innovations through grants, aiming for net-zero goals by 2045. The Naomi Jennifer fits this by using batteries for short trips, saving fuel on longer hauls.
Here’s a quick comparison of hybrid benefits:
| Feature | Traditional Diesel Vessel | Hybrid Vessel like Naomi Jennifer |
|---|---|---|
| Fuel Efficiency | Standard usage | Up to 20% savings |
| Emissions | Higher CO2 output | Reduced by 15-25% |
| Noise Levels | Louder operations | Quieter for marine wildlife |
| Maintenance | Frequent engine checks | Extended battery life |
This table highlights why hybrids are becoming standard in fish farming.
Challenges and Future Outlook
While promising, hybrid tech brings hurdles like high upfront costs and battery maintenance. Some older vessels in Scotland still run solely on diesel due to repair expenses.
Inverlussa plans more fleet upgrades, with two additional hybrids ordered recently. This could inspire other firms to follow, strengthening Scotland’s position in global aquaculture.
Looking ahead to 2026, experts predict further growth, with new honors recognizing farming leaders in the New Year lists.
As the industry evolves, vessels like the Naomi Jennifer show how innovation meets real-world needs. Readers, share your thoughts on sustainable farming below or spread this story to spark discussions on green tech in seafood production.
