RV Operations is the section responsible for the management, development and promotion of research vessel operations and specifically the operation of the R.V. Celtic Voyager, the R.V. Celtic Explorer and the Holland I deepwater ROV.
The Section is also involved with other aspects of sea-going research as well as managing the Foreign Vessel Observer scheme, the Integrated Marine Exploration Programme and the current Ship Management contract with our service provider P&O Maritime Services (Ireland) Ltd.
Marine Institute Research Vessel Operations
Mission Statement
"To manage, develop and promote the Marine Institute's national research vessels in a safe, cost effective and professional manner, in support of the implementation of the National sea-going programme of strategic research and monitoring."
Marine Institute Research Vessel Operations
Primary Objectives
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To execute the national sea-going programme of strategic research and monitoring to the best of its ability to achieve the objectives of all research cruises.
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Ensure the efficient operation and implementation of all survey programmes in the Celtic Explorer and Celtic Voyager schedules.
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Improve scientific instrumentation support services.
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To continually improve the range of research vessel facilities available to the Irish research community.
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To be responsible for the RV Observer programme, facilitate contact with foreign research vessel operators and to forge strategic partnerships on research vessels through barter exchanges, charterage and co-operative agreements.
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To pursue opportunities to charter the vessel to research institutes, government departments and companies throughout Ireland and Europe.
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To foster and facilitate a multidisciplinary approach to the utilisation of shiptime.
The Marine Institute's Research Vessels Fleet
We operate two purpose built research vessels, the RV Celtic Explorer and the RV Celtic Voyager and the Holland I deepwater Remotely Operated Vehicle (ROV).
Win Your Own Mission on an Irish Research Vessel!
Each year the Marine Institute runs the Bright Sparks Competition which offers emerging marine scientists the opportunity to gain hands-on experience in undertaking research on board the R.V. Celtic Voyager.
Proposals are invited from students interested in marine research to undertake a research survey on board the vessel. The successful applicant is awarded five days on board the Celtic Voyager plus up to €5,000 to cover the costs of consumables, logistics etc. The competition is announced in March/April each year - keep an eye on our website for further details.
Integrated Marine Exploration Programme
The Marine Institute’s Integrated Marine Exploration (IME) programme is a brand new initiative, the first of its kind in Europe, which is funded under the Government’s Strategy for Science, Technology and Innovation (SSTI) 2006-2013 and is part of the Sea Change initiative – A Marine Knowledge, Research & Innovation Strategy for Ireland in 2008.
Apply for Shiptime
If you are planning to carry out a survey on either the RV Celtic Explorer or RV Celtic Voyager, please visit Apply for Ship-time or contact Research Vessel Operations for more information.
Track the Research Vessels!
You can now track the position of our research vessels anywhere in the world!