New Icelandic company Knarr Maritime introduced at Seafood Expo Global

Six Icelandic fisheries and fishing technology companies have joined forces to create Knarr Maritime, they announced on Wednesday, 26 April at Seafood Expo Global.

Icelandic Minister of Fisheries Thorgerdur Katrin Gunnarsdóttir was on hand at the expo for the official unveiling of the company, which will offer design, construction and technology services for fishing vessels. 

“The initiative can even further strengthen an already important industry of high-tech companies working with the Icelandic seafood industry,” Gunnarsdóttir said. 

The six founding members of Knarr Maritime are Nautic, Frost, Brimrun, Naust Marine, Skaginn 3X and Skipataekni. Each will contribute their experience and products in a joint effort to equip new-build fishing vessels with the best, most modern and intelligent equipment and technology, the new firm said in its inaugural announcement.

“The companies have complimentary skills and together they cover most aspects needed for a modern fishing vessel either themselves or with subcontractors,” it said. “Other key parts, such as engines and the actual shipbuilding, will be chosen in close cooperation with the buyers.”

Finnbogi Jonsson, who has extensive experience in Iceland’s food and seafood sector, has been named board chairman of Knarr Maritime. Haraldur Arnason, who has worked in the seafood sector for decades, including most recently with the international fishing gear provider Hampidjan Group, has been named managing director.     

“The Icelandic Seafood Industry has always been [on the forefront] when it comes to knowledge and technology for fisheries,” Jonnson said. “Knarr Maritime will not only build on that but also enable the industry to push the boundaries even further.”