The mighty tuna seiner Belouve from Sapmer has carved a unique path through the world of fishing. From leading the charge in tropical tuna fisheries to navigating international waters via Panama, let’s dive into its fascinating story and understand how it continues to make waves.
Investing in the Future: Sapmer’s Vision
In the vibrant late 2000s, the tuna industry was booming, and Sapmer, a pioneering company from Réunion, took a bold step by investing in a new fleet of cutting-edge tuna seiners designed for efficiency and power.
| Vessel | Launch Year | Construction Site | Registered Flag |
|---|---|---|---|
| Franche Terre | 2009 | Piriou, Concarneau | Mayotte |
| Manapany | 2010 | Piriou Vietnam | Mayotte |
| Bernica | 2010 | Piriou Vietnam | Réunion |
| Dolomieu | 2012 | Piriou Vietnam | Réunion |
| Belouve | 2012 | Piriou Vietnam | Réunion |
| Belle Rive | 2013 | Piriou Vietnam | Mauritius |
| Belle-Isle | 2013 | Piriou Vietnam | Mauritius |
Modernizing Fish Processing and Efficiency Onboard
The fleet was not just about size and power; it was about revolutionizing the way tuna was processed and stored at sea. This was crucial for ensuring the highest quality of the catch.
- Brine Freezing: Each tuna was swiftly moved into a 537 m³ brine tank where the temperature held steady between -17°C and -20°C to begin the freezing process immediately after capture.
- Sorting and Storage: Post-freeze, the tuna were sorted rigorously by size and weight before being stowed in one of the six specially cooled holds, all maintained at a constant -40°C, providing a total cargo volume of 1470 m³.
Current Adventures: Belouve’s Continued Legacy
As of April 2024, the Belouve took on the Panama Canal, crossing from the Indian Ocean back to its familiar fishing grounds, still carrying its original Réunion colors and registration.
Life Aboard Belouve: Where Modernity Meets Comfort
Designed with both practicality and comfort in mind, the Belouve offers an impressive level of lifestyle enhancements for its crew, reflecting modern marine living.
- Living Quarters: The crew of 34 sail in style, with officers enjoying private cabins and other crew members sharing double cabins, each fitted with individual sanitary facilities to ensure comfort during long expeditions.
- Propulsion System: The advanced diesel-electric propulsion system is a standout feature, ensuring quieter and more efficient operation, important during fish stalking.
- Speed and Maneuverability: The vessel is equipped to reach speeds up to 17.6 knots, thanks to a powerful propulsion system that includes four 1300 kW diesel generators and twin electric motors operating with variable speed capabilities.
Shifting Tides: The Journey of Sister Ships
While Belouve continues to sail under its original name, some of its sister ships have begun their own adventures, changing hands and crossing seas.
- The vessel formerly known as Manapany, now the Ria de Aldan, went through a series of disarming stages in France before transitioning to the Panamanian flag under a new owner, ultimately settling in Manta, Ecuador.
- Similarly, Belle Rive and Belle-Isle, which initially flew the Mauritian flag, joined a new South American fleet, poised for operations in the Indian Ocean before a future in Manta.
The Significance Behind Names
The name “Belouve” calls back to the serene forests of East Highlands in Réunion Island, anchoring the vessel in both tradition and regional pride.
