25th April 2025
Hull-based freezer trawler Kirkella, owned and operated by our subsidiary, UK Fisheries, recently welcomed its first-ever female crewmembers. Three weeks into their first trip as deckhands, Hanna Jenkinson and Megan Dosdale are performing well, according to Sigurbjörn Sigurdsson, one of the vessel’s two rotating captains.
As recently reported by BBC News, the two women joining the vessel’s crew marks a milestone in the traditionally male-dominated fishing industry. Jenkinson and Dosdale completed the Maritime Futures Programme in Hull, a training initiative by East Coast Maritime Training, before joining the crew.
Built in 2018, Kirkella primarily catches whitefish such as cod, haddock, and saithe. The vessel is a significant supplier for the British fish and chips industry.
All new crew members start in the factory
Captain Sigurdsson says the new recruits are adjusting well to life at sea, have developed a good rapport with their crewmates, and are performing strongly in their roles. He credits the Maritime Futures Programme, developed by Hull Maritime, with attracting talented and well-prepared individuals.
“We currently have five new crewmembers on their first trip with Kirkella. We’ve placed a strong emphasis on welcoming young crew following their completion of the Maritime Futures Programme and certification. Many have gone on to build successful careers at sea with us,” says Sigurdsson.
The captain says all new crewmembers on Kirkella begin work in the factory and rotate through various workstations under the guidance of a more experienced supervisor. There, they learn trimming, how to pack products, and carry out most factory tasks—except emptying the plate freezer and filleting, which are handled by more senior crew.
“The two women, Jenkinson and Dosdale, are doing a great job and adapting well to the demands of life at sea. They’re a valuable addition to our crew,” Sigurdsson adds.
