VIA Océan, a company of Bolton Group, welcomes the entry into service of its newly built purse seiner “Via Alizé”. Registered in France, the Via Alizé will be the fourth vessel in the company’s Concarneau-based tuna fishing fleet. Via Alizé recently completed sea trials and incorporates the most up-to-date fishing and fish freezing technologies.

In full compliance with the ISSF resolution about conservation measures and fishing capacity management, Via Alizé is replacing another vessel in the fleet. Moreover, Via Alizé will join the VIA Océan fleet, becoming part of the Fishery Improvement Projects EASTI, engaged in developing the most sustainable fishing practices.

Built in Vietnam, the 67-metre length overall vessel is powered by a 3,000 kw Wartsila main engine and is capable of a speed of 14 knots. Its 1,200 cubic metres fish well capacity can freeze and hold fish at temperatures of minus 25°C to ensure the highest quality of frozen tuna. State-of-the-art electronics are installed onboard. Accommodation for a crew of 23 is fitted out to the highest standards and includes an onboard hospital. The crew hails from France and Cote d’Ivoire. This vessel is equipped with the latest environmental and fuel efficiency technologies, which also mark a milestone in the renewal of traditional fishing fleets.

The VIA Océan fleet of purse seiners, formerly known as Armement Saupiquet, will be now managed within the Tri Marine Group, part of Bolton Group since 2019 and dedicated to tuna trade and supply chain. The Via Alizé reconfirms Bolton’s long-term commitment to the entire tuna supply chain and to responsible quality: tuna fished sustainably, from fisheries managed for the future.