A new oceanographic research vessel for the Environment Agency-Abu Dhabi (EAD) has been floated off by Construcciones Navales P Freire in Vigo.
The contract for what Abu Dhabi government describes as the ‘most advanced research vessel in the Middle East’ was signed in December 2020 and construction work started six months later.
This ultra-modern oceanographic designed entirely by Freire Shipyard is intended to carry out advanced research work in both deep and shallow waters. It has ecologically sustainable technologies that provide opportunities for lower fuel consumption and lower pollutant emissions, as well as allowing silent operation when navigating at low speed.
The vessel is able to accommodate 18 crew members and 11 scientists, and is equipped with the most advanced technology equipment available on the market that will allow it to meet the requirements of the different laboratories on board – with fishing, chemical, biophysical, dry and wet laboratories, as well as a facilities for the diving team.
Several Freire representatives were present at the launch ceremony, led by Jesús, Guillermo and Marcos Freire, who were accompanied by a delegation from the shipowner and supervision teams.
‘We are very pleased to proceed with a milestone in the construction of such an innovative ship,’explained the yard’s commercial director, Santiago Sío.
This is the eighth oceanographic vessel to be built at Freire Shipyard, which has two more vessels in its order book.
‘We have first-line clients and references of varied construction, from multipurpose compact ships to specific research units of size and capacity,’ Santiago Sío said.
