Charter for Blue Whiting Spawning Survey

Tender description

Marine Scotland invites a tender from pelagic vessels of overall length greater than 60m to undertake an acoustic survey for Blue Whiting commencing at the shelf edge out to a maximum of 18°W and between 51°N to 62°N. The vessel will complete prescribed acoustic transects within these boundaries. The charter will be of 15 days duration taking place between the 21 March and 4 April 2022, The vessel must depart from a Scottish mainland port. Scientific quota is being offered in exchange for a number of days survey time (maximum 16 days depending on the daily rate of charter). Blue Whiting quota is to be allocated on the value of the catch at the time of landing. The catch is to be taken as Blue whiting quota. This quota must be taken at the first opportunity of the Blue whiting fishery opening in March/April. If the vessel lands more than the monetary value agreed, the excess must be covered by the vessel’s own quota allocation. Bidding vessels must therefore have sufficient quota in the relevant area. In the event that the allocated blue whiting quota offered under this contract cannot be caught, a pro rata offer of mackerel will be made. The value of any uncaught blue whiting quota leased out by the successful vessel will be deducted from this calculation. If the vessel lands less than the value agreed no additional compensation will be offered.