The NAFC Marine Centre was established by Shetland Islands Council as a key element of its strategy to support the local fish catching, aquaculture and fish processing industries. In order to support these functions, NAFC diversified into Merchant Navy Training. The vision is to provide high quality resources to support and enhance the development and sustainability of the marine industries. Our mission is to be customer focused leader in maritime training, research and development, marine resources monitoring, inspection, advice and management.

 

Maritime Training

Recipients of NAFC Training include:

 

• Fishermen
• Fish & Shellfish Farmers
• Merchant Navy Deck & Engineering Officers and Crew
• Shore-Based Engineers
• Fish Processing & Other Food Industry Staff
• Recreational Sailors

 

Research and development

Recent NAFC projects include:

 

• Studies of monkfish biology and fisheries
• Assessment of local shellfish stocks
• Effects of a local landslide on the local shell fish fishery
• Monitoring of harmful algal blooms
• Studies of farmed cod
• Origins of farmed and wild salmon
• Trials of novel fishing methods

Monitoring & Inspection

NAFC operates a commercial company called Shetland Seafood Quality Control (SSQC) to provide inspection services, an analytical laboratory service and an environmental monitoring service to local and national companies and organisations.

 

Marine Advice & Management

The Marine Development Department undertakes a range of statutory functions for the Shetland Islands Council.

 

UHI Millennium Institute

The College is an active partner in the UHI Millennium Institute which is a partnership of 13 institutions across the Highlands and Islands of Scotland.

 

Da Haaf Restaurant

For those seeking some of the best seafood in Shetland, NAFC operates its own restaurant, open to the public and located within the main building on the campus.