A new state-of-the-art coastal research vessel is set to revolutionise the understanding of our coastal waters.
The 37.7m vessel will support a wide range of marine research, including fisheries, aquaculture, climate science, oceanography and significant marine events such as the Harmful Algal Bloom (HAB) that is currently affecting South Australia.
The boat will be equipped with advanced sensors and technology, enabling the collection of critical data which will significantly contribute to addressing known data gaps in national databases and enhancing oceanographic forecast models.
The vessel will also play a crucial role in deploying and maintaining coastal observing platforms, including moorings that can be equipped with advanced sensors designed to detect HABs, which will help guide effective response strategies.
Funded through a $44 million commitment, made up of $25.35 million in State funding and matched with $19 million from the Commonwealth Government, the as-yet unnamed boat will also be able to collect samples and comprehensive data from various water depths.
The funding will enable the South Australian Research and Development Institute (SARDI), the research division of the Department of Primary Industries and Regions, to progress into procurement and design, with construction expected to begin in 2027.
The new vessel will replace the 40-year-old MRV Ngerin, which has served as a cornerstone of South Australia's marine research capability and has undertaken more than 500 voyages but is now unable to meet the growing demands of modern marine science.
It will be the only dedicated coastal research vessel operating in southern Australia east of Esperance, giving South Australia a competitive edge in attracting national projects, research collaborations and supporting the development of the "blue economy".
Once operational, the vessel is expected to support over 200 days at sea each year, providing critical infrastructure for agencies, universities, and industry across the nation, and strengthening South Australia’s reputation for world-leading marine science.
The vessel is anticipated to be operational by late 2029.
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