RBS funding helps Scottish fishing business launch state-of-the-art vessel

A new, state-of-the-art fishing vessel has berthed in Orkney thanks to a significant funding package from Royal Bank of Scotland.

Family-run fishing business Skelwick, which has been providing fishing services for 25 years, is now the owner of 35-metre trawler MFV Aalskere.

Based in Kirkwall, the new vessel will primarily operate from Peterhead and be managed by fishing agent and partner Don Fishing Company. A crew of 18 staff will rotate their time on board the vessel.

The loan from Royal Bank of Scotland helped to secure the construction of the white fish trawler, which was designed and constructed in Denmark.

Iain Harcus, director at Skelwick and skipper of Aalskere, said: “We started out with our original fishing vessel, which has served us well for over two decades, so it’s been exciting to bring on a newer, more modern boat – the builders have done a fantastic job.”

Alan Smith, senior relationship manager at Royal Bank of Scotland, added: “It’s always a big event when a new boat enters service, so I’m proud to have been able to play a part in securing the arrival of MFV Aalskere. We wish Iain and his crew many safe journeys on board.”

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