Imtech Marine teams up with leading multibeam sonar supplier WASSP
Imtech Marine has successfully concluded a distribution agreement with WASSP, a world leader in multibeam sonar technology. The agreement with WASSP’s parent company Electronic Navigation Ltd(ENL) of New Zealand includes the entire WASSP F- and S-Series sonar portfolio and covers the Netherlands, Belgium and China. Developed by ENL, WASSP is a combination of technologies packaged into a uniquely versatile, powerful and cost-effective electronic fishing, marine surveying and scientific research tool.
In a short time, three WASSP systems have already been sold to existing Imtech Marine customers, Jaczon and Cornelis Vrolijk. A WASSP LF was installed on the “Zeeland” trawler belonging to Dutch pelagic fishing producer and wholesaler Jaczon and Imtech Marine also received an order for two systems from Cornelis Vrolijk. One of those systems is due for the Frank Bonefaas, a 120 m freezer trawler owned by the well-known family fishing firm Cornelis Vrolijk. The Frank Bonefaas is currently in drydock in Vlissingen in the Netherlands undergoing a complete refurbishment. As well as the WASSP LF and WASSP HF system, Imtech Marine is also carrying out the complete renewal of the bridge consoles and sonar room, The job is due for completion in August, 2013.
Cost savings
John Rijlaarsdam, Imtech Marine Service Department IJmuiden (Netherlands) commented: “The WASSP equipment is a real asset for skippers, giving them much more information about what is happening with fish under the vessel, so it is easier to get the maximum catch. This should result in more efficient fishing. Costs are reduced through considerable savings in fuel and crewing. The WASSP sonar is very versatile and also offers many interface possibilities with other equipment.”
Surveying, dredging and super yachts
As well as the fisheries sector, the WASSP equipment is very interesting for the survey, dredging and super yacht markets. “Technically and commercially it has huge potential,” said Hugo Abrahamse, Supply Chain Manager, Imtech Marine. “There is a strong demand.”
“Currently most super yachts use forward-looking sonars when considering where to drop anchor but the multibeam sonar provides a great alternative, giving much more detailed information,” he added.
About WASSP Multibeam Sonar
WASSP multibeam sonars allow a wide spectrum of marine users to accurately map the seafloor and see detailed information in the water column using its wide sonar coverage. The technology accurately profiles the water column and seafloor highlighting reefs, wrecks, fish schools, seafloor hardness changes and foreign objects. The information is presented in user-friendly displays, all controlled via a mouse and stored on the computer hard drive for future use. WASSP multibeam is available in two configurations. The primary objective of the WASSP F-Series is to enhance the skipper’s knowledge of his fishing environment, leading to improved catch rates, reduced gear damage and more productive sea time. WASSP S has been developed to bring the benefits of multibeam sonar to the survey, dredging and scientific research markets.
About Imtech Marine
Imtech Marine (headquartered in Rotterdam) is a leading company in the global maritime market, operating as a full-service provider and system integrator of tailor-made, innovative and sustainable technology solutions covering the whole ship. Imtech Marine specialises in automation (platform and bridge), navigation & communication including connectivity, energy and drive solutions, HVAC (heating, ventilation and air conditioning) solutions and fire protection technology, entertainment and maritime services.
Imtech Marine provides innovative systems and reliable services during the full lifetime of the ship. Imtech Marine reached annual revenues of more than €500 million in 2011, employing more than 2,600 employees in 97 offices in 26 countries based along shipping routes and close to shipbuilding centres.