The European Fisheries Control Agency (EFCA) patrol vessel Ocean Protector has made its first berth at Dún Laoghaire Harbour on Dublin Bay on Friday, March 6th.
The bright-orange fisheries inspection ship is alongside the harbour’s Carlisle Pier for a four-day visit.
While the vessel has previously visited Dublin waters, this marks the first time she has berthed at Dún Laoghaire.
The visit makes use of the harbour’s recently upgraded fendering system installed at Carlisle Pier.
Operated by the European Fisheries Control Agency, Ocean Protector supports enforcement of the EU’s Common Fisheries Policy.
The vessel carries inspection teams who board fishing vessels at sea to check catches, licences and compliance with EU fisheries rules.
She also supports wider maritime tasks including surveillance, pollution monitoring and search and rescue assistance.
Offshore Watch — The EFCA patrol ship Ocean Protector pictured off the Dublin coast as she conducts fisheries inspection duties in Irish Sea waters Photo: Afloat
At 62 metres in length, Ocean Protector is equipped with fast rescue craft, advanced communications systems and a dedicated rescue zone on deck.
EFCA coordinates joint fisheries patrols between EU member states using vessels and aircraft deployed across European waters.
The agency is led by Irish marine scientist Dr Susan Steele, whose mandate as EFCA Executive Director was recently renewed.
Steele previously chaired Ireland’s Sea-Fisheries Protection Authority and has held senior roles across the Irish marine sector.
The vessel’s striking “EU Fishery Inspection” hull markings have drawn attention along the Dún Laoghaire waterfront during the visit.
After the four-day stopover, Ocean Protector is expected to resume patrol duties supporting fisheries monitoring operations in European waters.
