South African ice-breaking polar research and survey ship, the SA Agulhas II, has arrived at the V&A Waterfront harbour after embarking on a 6-month expedition to Antarctica. The ship will open its doors to the public for guided tours as part of the celebration of World Oceans Day on 8 June.
Also read: SA Agulhas II set to depart from CT in search of a sunken Endurance in Antarctica
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The iconic SA Agulhas II holds an important place in the realm of polar exploration, the ship is known for the remarkable discovery of the wreck of Endurance in the Weddel Sea on 5 March 2022, at a depth of 3 000 metres.
The South African Department of Forestry, Fisheries and Environment owns the ship, which is operated by African Marine Solutions. Constructed in the shipyard of STX Finland in Rauma, Finland, in 2012, it was handed over to the South African government and now sails under the flag of South Africa.
With a length of 134 metres and ten decks, the SA Agulhas II has a unique design that combines the functionalities of a polar supply ship and a scientific research vessel. It accommodates a crew of 45 and provides berth space for up to 100 scientists. It annually undertakes the vital task of supplying fuel, food, personnel and other essential resources to South Africa’s research bases in Antarctica, as well as the Subantarctic Marion and Gough Islands.
The team aboard the SA Agulhas II is dedicated to scientific exploration. The ship’s multifaceted nature enables it to support crucial research endeavours in the polar regions, contributing to a deeper knowledge of the world’s oceans and the delicate ecosystems they encompass.
Regrettably, all spots have already been filled for the tours aboard the SA Agulhas II, which is scheduled to take place on the 10 and 11 June 2023.
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Picture: V&A Waterfront / Facebook