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New twinrigger UK-24 'Anna' on her maiden voyage.
New twinrigger UK-24 'Anna' on her maiden voyage.

A contemporary twinrigger designed for efficiency and future-readiness

Last week, the new twinrigger UK-24 Anna departed from Harlingen for her maiden fishing trip. The vessel, designed by Naval Consultant Herman Jansen, was completed in Urk by main contractor Hoekman Shipbuilding. Skipper-owner Albert Romkes reports that the first rounds over the fishing grounds went smoothly: "Everything is working properly. We are very satisfied." Due to COVID-19, an official handover was not organized, but both the builder and the owner are proud of the result.

Design and construction
The UK-24 Anna is a modern twinrigger, measuring 27.75 meters in length and 8 meters in beam. The hull was built at Motex Shipyard in Poland and subsequently completed in Urk. Naval Consultant Herman Jansen not only designed the vessel’s characteristic lines but also developed a completely new hull shape, specifically optimized to achieve the ideal balance between sailing performance and fuel efficiency. Propulsion is provided by an 800 HP ABC 6DZC main engine, coupled to a Reintjes gearbox driving a 3-meter propeller from AMW Marine. Dieselservice Emmeloord supplied three Mitsubishi-powered generator sets to support onboard energy needs.

Innovation and outfitting
Throughout the design and construction process, sustainability, functionality, and operational efficiency were key priorities. Familiar with the Danish fishing sector, skipper Romkes deliberately chose several Danish suppliers: the winch system and hydraulics were supplied by Kynde & Toft, the steering system by As:Scan, and the refrigeration system — including floor cooling in the fish hold — by Nordkø. The complete fish processing installation was delivered by VCU Urk, featuring an advanced 5-bin rinsing machine, two langoustine preservation tanks, and Buus flake ice machines. Every element was selected to ensure maximum catch quality and efficient onboard processing.

First voyages and outlook
The first trial and fishing voyages immediately showcased the Anna's smooth and quiet operation. The vessel’s excellent performance, aided by the innovative hull design, was quickly evident. Both skipper Romkes and Hernand Jansen of Naval Consultant Herman Jansen expressed their satisfaction with the final result. "At first glance, it may resemble Danish twinriggers, but it is truly an original design," Jansen said. The first catches, primarily plaice and lemon sole, were successfully sold in IJmuiden. With her entry into service, the UK-24 Anna not only strengthens the fleet but also stands as a fine example of how close collaboration between design, construction, and practical experience leads to true innovation on the water.

Naval Consultant