HOFSETH HIRES TWO NEW HYBRID VESSELS FROM TRIDENT AQUA SERVICES

Hofseth hires two new hybrid vessels from Trident Aqua Services. New battery-hybrid service vessels strengthen low-emission and biosecure aquaculture operations

Trident Aqua Services has entered into an agreement with Hofseth for the delivery and operation of two new, modern hybrid vessels for Hofseth’s aquaculture operations. Multi Storfjord and Multi Navigator are now in operation and mark an important milestone for both companies, with a shared ambition to develop more sustainable, efficient and biosecure solutions for the aquaculture industry. Following the delivery, the two vessels will be officially named at a ceremony taking place on 13 June in Ålesund, Norway.

The new vessels, Multi Storfjord and Multi Navigator, have been developed by Trident Aqua Services, designed by Solstrand Trading and built at Sletta Verft, with a focus on high operational performance, electrification and biosecurity. The vessels are tailored to work in close interaction with Hofseth’s land-based infrastructure, enabling more efficient and future-oriented operations. Designed as multi-purpose units, the vessels are equipped to handle a wide range of activities, from mooring work to advanced service operations. Multi Storfjord is fitted with a 1500 kWh battery pack, while Multi Navigator has a 1125 kWh battery pack, allowing both vessels to operate solely on battery power for a full 12-hour working day. Combined with Hofseth’s innovative investment in shore power, the vessels will contribute to significant reductions in fuel consumption, CO₂ emissions and noise.

These vessels have been developed to ensure a high degree of biosecurity and stable operations under demanding conditions. With integrated systems for ROV operations, net cleaning and electrically driven pump solutions, work can be carried out within controlled parameters with reduced risk of cross-contamination. This provides increased control and more efficient use of resources, while supporting strict requirements for fish welfare and disease prevention. This delivery includes not only two vessels, but a complete service solution developed to create maximum value for the customer — operationally, economically and environmentally. The hybrid solutions provide significant benefits, with an estimated daily energy consumption of 2,420 kWh drawn from shore power across both vessels. On an annual basis, this replaces approximately 200,000 litres of fuel, assuming daily charging and normal operations. Through connection to Hofseth’s shore power facilities, the vessels can operate with minimal use of fossil fuel, contributing to lower emissions, reduced energy consumption, less noise and an improved working environment on board.

For Trident Aqua Services, this delivery marks an important milestone in the company’s continued commitment to invest in sustainable vessel solutions for the aquaculture industry. “As the world’s largest provider of vessel services to the aquaculture industry, we have a responsibility to drive development forward. These vessels show how we combine technology, experience and innovation to deliver solutions that create real value for our customers,” says Arild Aasmyr, CEO of Trident Aqua Services. He adds that the company looks forward to the upcoming naming ceremony for the vessels and hopes that both the community and other interested parties will take the opportunity to participate in the celebration, as the event is open to the public.

“We are always looking for new solutions and technology that provide more efficient operations, lower emissions and a safer everyday working environment for both people and fish. These vessels fit well with how we want to develop the future of aquaculture in Storfjorden” says Roger Hofseth, CEO of Hofseth. He points out that the collaboration with Trident Aqua Services provides access to future-oriented technology and operational expertise that help strengthen efficiency, biosecurity and fish welfare in day-to-day operations. At the same time, both parties underline that the delivery also represents an important milestone in the collaboration between the companies, where technology, vessel design and land-based infrastructure are viewed together to develop more robust and sustainable operations for the aquaculture industry.

About Trident Aqua Services

Trident Aqua Services is the world’s largest provider of vessel services to the aquaculture industry. The company operates globally and was established in 2025 through the merger of FSV Group, Intership and Aquaship. Trident Aqua Services provides services to many of the world’s leading aquaculture companies through long-term contracts. The company operates a modern and diversified fleet of 64 vessels in operation, with four further vessels under construction. Trident Aqua Services has around 1,000 employees and offers a broad range of maritime aquaculture services, including wellboats, feed carriers, premium and standard service vessels, as well as harvest and utility vessels. Headquartered in Norway, Trident Aqua Services has an international presence with operations in Chile, the UK, Ireland, Canada and the Faroe Islands, reflecting a long-term commitment to key aquaculture regions.

Image: Trident Aqua Services