site.btaExecutive Agency for Fisheries, Aquaculture to Acquire New Patrol Boats

The Executive Agency for Fisheries and Aquaculture (EAFA) will acquire new and modern patrol boats, which will support effective control in fisheries and contribute to the protection of marine resources, the Regional Information Centre in Varna said on Thursday.

The agency will be equipped with seven new patrol vessels, which will be accompanied by trailers, ensuring mobility, wide range and cost optimization for both movement and winter storage of the boats. 

EAFA Executive Director Dr. Nikolay Georgiev told BTA in 2024 that the agency would seek funds from European Union for off-road vehicles and boats to use at sea and on the Danube River. At the moment, the agency has only one such vessel and its unsatisfactory technical condition in no way contributes to the implementation of the EAFA's control functions.

The new boats will be purchased under a project funded by the Maritime Affairs, Fisheries and Aquaculture Programme 2021-2027, with a total value of over BGN 2.9 million. The implementation of the project and the delivery of the new equipment is expected to ensure better monitoring and sustainable management of fish resources in the Black Sea. The implementation will continue until May 19, 2028.