As part of the modernisation of the Waterdance fleet – and our continued investment in the UK fishing industry – we have contracted Whitby-based Parkol Marine Engineering to build a new 20-metre Netter. Scheduled for completion by April 2021, build no. 051 will become the Amanda of Ladram, skippered by John Walsh (our existing Amanda of Ladram will be renamed the Rachel of Ladram).

The first new offshore Netter to be built for the UK flag in almost twenty years, this new vessel represents another major milestone for the Waterdance fleet, following the building of a new Crabber, the Nichola of Ladram, in 2019, and a new Beam Trawler, the Georgina of Ladram, in 2020.

The vessel will have an overall length of 20.4 metres and a breadth of 7.70 metres, giving her improved stability at sea and ensuring ample space for comfortable, low-noise accommodation, a mess deck for a crew of eight and generous hold storage.

The new Amanda of Ladram will combine the traditional functionality of a conventional Netter with the latest boat-building design and technology approaches. A high-efficiency propulsion system and painstakingly-designed propeller and stern section will ensure she moves through the seas efficiently, resulting in lower fuel consumption and emissions. For extra safety, and to ensure minimal disruption of the working routine at sea, the vessel will also be installed with additional equipment (for example an extra generator) to be used should the primary system fail.

The Amanda of Ladram will be based in the port of Newlyn, Cornwall, and will primarily fish Area 7, SW Approaches and the Irish Sea for MSC-certified Hake, Monkfish, Turbot, Cod, Haddock, Pollock and other mixed fish.