Apply for Shiptime 2025/2026

Apply for Shiptime 2025/2026 Applications are currently being accepted for ship-time in 2025 and 2026 for the National Research Vessels (RV Celtic Explorer and RV Tom Crean).

The ROV Holland I as well as the Marine Institute's Slocum Gliders; “Laochra na Mara” and “Aisling na Mara” are also offered.

Applications for ship-time for 2025 and 2026 on the RV Celtic Explorer, RV Tom Crean and the ROV Holland I will be submitted using the Marine Institute’s new planning system ‘Marine Facilities Planning’ or MFP. Please click here to ‘Request an account’ to access the MFP. Applications must be submitted using the MFP by Wednesday 19th June 2024.

Each ship-time application will be reviewed and the applicant will be informed as soon as possible whether the ship-time they requested is available.  If the requested timing is not available, alternative dates may be offered.  The Vessel Charter Guidelines should be read carefully before submitting the Ship-time application form.

Further information, technical specification and contact details for the Gliders are available on the Glider Webpage.

Applicants may seek grant-aid to cover all or part of the vessel charter costs for Research Surveys or Ship-Based Training Programmes in 2025.  For information on eligibility for grant-aid and how to apply click here.

Closing Date for receipt of Grant-Aid applications is 19th June 2024.

Applicants for ship-based training are advised to consult with the Strategic Marine Alliance for Research and Training (SMART). Please contact smart@gmit.ie. SMART aims to standardise and optimise ship-based training for undergraduate and post-graduate students and develop nationally accredited ship-based training activities for national Higher Education.

The survey schedules CAN change during the year, therefore please contact Research Vessel Operations to check whether any survey slots remain for 2025 or to be notified if any dates become available.