The three fishing inspection vessels of the EFCA will continue operating in European waters

The European Fisheries Control Agency (EFCA) will continue coordinating the operations of the patrol vessels "Ocean Guardian" (IMO 9761401), "Ocean Protector" (IMO 9761437), and "Ocean Sentinel" (IMO 9761425), after awarding a new contract to ensure their continuity in monitoring and fishing inspection tasks.

The three vessels, sailing under the Portuguese flag, will continue to support the Member States of the European Union and the European Commission in the enforcement of the Common Fisheries Policy (CFP). Furthermore, they will remain the only patrol vessels whose operations are directly coordinated by a EU agency.

Their activities will take place in various areas of interest for European fishing, such as the Mediterranean, the Black Sea, the North Sea, the Baltic Sea, the western waters, and areas managed by the NAFO and NEAFC fishing organizations.

In addition to fishing inspections, these vessels participate in other coast guard missions, such as search and rescue operations, maritime surveillance, response to pollution incidents, and joint exercises with other European agencies.

As highlighted by the EFCA, the three patrol vessels are equipped with modern technology and better onboard facilities, allowing them to carry out their missions more effectively and improve coordination among the different countries of the European Union.

Photo: Vessel Finder (Gyssels Gilbert)