Manon-Yvon: A Major Vessel Transformation to Boost Fishing Performance and Capacity

Navanex recently completed a large-scale transformation of the Manon-Yvon, a fishing vessel owned by Pêcherie Lero inc. in the Magdalen Islands. Through combined expertise in naval design, production engineering, and stability analysis, the team transformed this nearly 40-year-old vessel into a fishing platform better suited to current operational needs.

A Structural Modernization of a 40-Year-Old Vessel

The Manon-Yvon is a trawler specialized in crab fishing. Despite its age, the vessel had a solid foundation that the owner, Yvon Thériault, sought to modernize to extend its service life, increase fishing capacity, and improve working conditions on board. The mandate entrusted to Navanex included:

• The design of a 15-foot extension incorporating RSW holds.

• A comprehensive stability analysis to ensure the vessel’s safety and regulatory compliance following the conversion.

• Delivering detailed production engineering for shipyard execution;

• Integrating a bow thruster for enhanced maneuverability.

Overcoming a Challenging Hull Geometry

One of the main technical challenges was integrating the new midsection with the vessel’s highly shaped original hull. To meet this challenge, Navanex conducted a complete 3D scan of the vessel. This allowed our team to reproduce the hull digitally and precisely model the new extension for a seamless fit.

An Integrated Approach: From Design to Production

Navanex provided end-to-end support throughout the project:

• The preliminary stability analysis made it possible to size the holds while complying with both the vessel’s tonnage and Transport Canada’s stability criteria.

• All technical plans were approved by Transport Canada, ensuring full regulatory compliance;

• A complete steel structure model was delivered to Chantier Naval Forillon, supporting efficient production at the shipyard.

Results: More Speed, Space, and Versatility

The Manon-Yvon was relaunched in March 2025, with significant gains:

• The vessel’s length increased from 18.5 m to 23.13 m;

• It now includes a 54 m³ live hold, enabling it to transport up to 45,000 lbs of live crab;

• Deck space has doubled, offering improved workflow and flexibility for the crew;

• During the transformation, the owner also modernized the fore hold and installed a new generator.

Expertise Serving Eastern Québec’s Marine Sector

This project highlights the importance of an integrated approach to naval architecture, combining technical precision, digital innovation, and close collaboration with local shipyards.

The Navanex team—including Hubert Simard, Ahmed Kabbadj, Aaron Clark, Christophe Egger, and Charles Vézina—continues to support Quebec’s maritime companies in their expansion, modernization, and performance-driven projects.

Do you have a naval transformation project?

Contact our team to learn how Navanex can support you from design through production.