Icelandic marine technology company Hefring Marine has partnered with the Northern Ireland Fishermen’s Federation (NIFF) to introduce intelligent performance monitoring systems across the region’s fishing vessels. The initiative, supported by Northern Ireland’s Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs, will pilot the company’s IMAS technology to help fishermen lower costs, enhance safety, and reduce emissions.

Participating members from the Northern Ireland Fish Producers’ Organisation (NIFPO) and the Anglo Northern Ireland Fish Producers’ Organisation (ANIFPO) will trial the system on commercial trawlers. The IMAS platform provides operators with real-time data on vessel performance and fuel use, helping crews fine-tune their operations and extend engine lifespan.

Fuel remains one of the highest operational expenses for the fishing industry, with rising costs adding further strain to the sector. According to Adam Holland, Fisheries Sustainability Officer, the technology offers vessel operators the ability to monitor consumption more accurately, supporting profitability and alignment with UK emissions goals.

The pilot also addresses crew safety. By using data insights to guide vessel handling in difficult sea conditions, IMAS could reduce risks in one of the most hazardous maritime professions. “Fishing is one of the toughest environments at sea,” said Karl Birgir Björnsson, CEO of Hefring Marine. “Our mission is to make it safer, more efficient, and sustainable.”

Crew training and data collection will underpin the project’s long-term goal—to create a smarter, more resilient fishing fleet for Northern Ireland.

Learn how this partnership could reshape the future of sustainable fishing in Northern Ireland — read the full story here.