This is the author accepted manuscript. The final version is available from Elsevier via the DOI in this record.The presented work describes the hydrodynamic assessment studies of a much needed technical innovation of Sea Based Container Culture (SBCC) as part of a semi intensive, passive aquaculture culture system for farming the European lobster (Homarus gammarus). Factors that are known to influence growth and survival rates were obtained from previous literature, including flow rate, wave energy and motion characteristics; these factors defined performance criteria for SBCC containers. The internal flow velocities and external flow patterns for different SBCC container designs were measured and used to inform design decisions. Suitable graphical representations have been developed to assess SBCC containers on specific performance criteria. Oyster SBCC containers were found to provide stable motion characteristics but perform poorly against the lower velocity limit, indicating insufficient supply of Dissolved Oxygen (DO) to allow for optimal growth of European lobsters. Internal flow velocities were also measured on un-fouled and fouled SBCC containers; results showed SBCC 2 would not provide enough DO with 66% biofouling coverage (66% biofouling replicates one year deployment) and triggered a redesign. SBCC 1 at 90° yaw angle of attack demonstrated all round good performance against upper and lower velocity limits and motion characteristics; thus showed greatest promise for cultivation of European Lobster.The research was gratefully supported and funded by BBSRC (BB/M005208/1) and Innovate UK (131597) through the Agri-Tech Catalyst, Early Stage Awards. The project consortium consisted of the National Lobster Hatchery, University of Exeter, Falmouth University, Centre for Environment, Fisheries and Aquaculture Science, West Country Mussels of Fowey and Fusion Marine. Follow on work will also be supported by BBSRC and Innovate UK through the Industrial Stage of Agri-Tech catalyst and supported by funding from the Worshipful Company of Fishmongers
