China Launches World’s Largest Ocean-Going Aquaculture Vessel

China celebrated a significant milestone on July 20 with the re-delivery of the world’s largest ocean-going aquaculture vessel, Zhe Dai Yu Yang 60001 (Senhai Pioneer). This innovative project marks a new chapter in China’s efforts to explore new resources for food development while also showcasing cost-effective solutions in vessel conversion.

The vessel, originally a standard 1996-built Panamax bulker with an 80,000 dwt capacity, underwent a remarkable transformation. Its cargo hatches were reconfigured into seven breeding chambers, allowing it to hold a total of 80,000 cubic meters of seawater. Measuring 225 meters (738 feet) in length, the vessel is equipped to accommodate a crew of 30 members.

One of the most notable features of this project is the engineering innovation that enables the exchange of seawater between the tanks and the ocean. This clever design includes hull openings that facilitate water exchange while ensuring the vessel’s buoyancy and stability. The vessel also boasts advanced systems such as an intelligence feeding system, monitoring equipment, catching gear, and water quality monitoring.

Chinese officials have outlined the vessel’s primary role as a “mobile ocean ranch” operating in the Yellow and East China Seas. With the capability to harvest multiple species, including salmon, the vessel is projected to produce 2,280 to 2,800 tons of premium fish annually.

While China has previously constructed fish farm ships, the Zhe Dai Yu Yang 60001 project stands out for its cost-effectiveness. Senhai Muge (Zhejiang) Marine Technology, the company behind the project and its future operation, plans to convert three Capesize bulkers in a similar fashion, as reported by Xinde Marine News.