Damon Cooper has been fishing commercially for 30 years and added a third boat to his fleet on Saturday, with the boat launch.
Otago Rock Lobster Industry Association executive officer Chanel Gardner said her husband, Mr Cooper, was committed to and very passionate about the fishing industry in Otago.
The boat was built in Dunedin to contribute to the local fishing industry, she said.
"The great thing about this is we chose to build it in Dunedin to support the local boat-builders and all of the tradesmen that go into building a massive vessel like this, so it’s a huge investment across the community," Ms Gardner said.
Elodie had been an upgrade to Mr Cooper’s fleet and had modern technology which included top-of-the-line computer systems, which made it more efficient and sustainable.
"There is reduction of fuel use and greater water efficiency on board, which makes the whole vessel overall a big step in sustainability for the fleet."
Ms Gardner said it had been a long time in the making, especially with Covid, regulatory pressures and restrictions.
"It’s been a long process because of the global situation getting parts, and everything always takes longer.
"It’s great to get it on the water, but it’s definitely been a labour of love."
The boat will mainly fish rock lobster and blue cod and its more efficient systems would enable Mr Cooper to get the rock lobster to market in excellent shape.
Mr Cooper said he was aiming to get Elodie to sea within the next week.
