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A modern platform for marine science
Delivered in July 2022, RV Tom Crean is used by the Marine Institute, other state agencies, and universities. Skipsteknisk AS designed the vessel, and Astilleros Armon Vigo S.A. built it. It enables more than 300 operational days and up to 3,000 scientist days at sea each year.
Research capabilities
The vessel carries scientific equipment for research, monitoring, mapping, and marine-observation operations.
Fisheries research
Scientific equipment aboard the vessel supports fisheries research at sea.
Seabed mapping
The vessel provides a platform for mapping the seabed during marine surveys.
Environmental monitoring
Researchers use the vessel and its equipment to monitor marine environmental conditions.
Oceanographic research
The vessel supports scientific investigation of ocean conditions and processes.
Observation infrastructure
Crews can maintain and deploy data buoys, observational infrastructure, and Remotely Operated Vehicles.
Survey performance and environmental design
The modern silent multipurpose vessel meets the stringent ICES 209 noise criteria for fisheries research. It can remain at sea for 21 days and operate in harsh sea conditions.
Its design incorporates energy-efficient technologies that reduce fuel consumption and minimise environmental impact and carbon footprint.
Principal dimensions, endurance, power, positioning, and container capacity for RV Tom Crean.
| Category | Specification | Value |
|---|---|---|
| Dimensions | Length overall | 52.8 m |
| Dimensions | Length PP | 48 m |
| Dimensions | Beam | 14 m |
| Dimensions | Draft | 5.2 m |
| Endurance | Time at sea | 21 days |
| Endurance | Range | 8,000 nautical miles |
| Power | Power generation | 2 × 1,350 kW and 1 × 400 kW |
| Power | Main propulsion motor | 2,000 kW |
| Power | Bow thruster | 780 kW |
| Power | Stern tunnel thruster | 400 kW |
| Other | Dynamic positioning | DP1 |
| Other | Container capacity | 3 × 20 ft containers |
Contact about RV Tom Crean
Email the Marine Institute with enquiries about the research vessel.