Serco’s Antarctic voyage departs Hobart

MARITIME AND
UNDERSEA WARFARE

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20 DECEMBER 2021

By: Reporter

The crew onboard the RSV Nuyina left Hobart for the Davis and Casey research stations, transporting 33 expeditioners and 1,500 tonnes of cargo to the continent.

RSV Nuyina departed Hobart on Monday this week, carrying supplies and expeditioners to the Davis and Casey research stations in Antarctica.

On board RSV Nuyina were 33 expeditioners, transit helicopters and 1.1 million litres of Special Antarctic Blend fuel. Throughout the voyage over the coming summer, the ship is also expected to undertake science commissioning activities.

Serco Maritime managing director Clint Thomas, AM, CSC, welcomed the opportunity to support and play a role in Australia’s Antarctic program.

“As a scientific research platform, icebreaker and resupply ship in one, Nuyina forms the centrepiece of the Australian Antarctic Program, and Serco’s operation of the new vessel ensures vital Antarctic operations and research can take place throughout the season,” Thomas said.

“We have been looking forward to this voyage for some time and our crew are excited to push the vessel’s capabilities in some of the world’s most formidable conditions.

“The Southern Ocean’s extreme weather, freezing temperatures, and mammoth icebergs are challenging to navigate, yet the ship’s state-of-the-art design and advanced capabilities mean it will be right at home.”

As part of the RSV Nuyina's construction and ongoing maintenance, Serco Australia oversaw the ship design and build, and is expected to maintain the RSV Nuyina for up to 30 years.

“With more than 50 years’ experience delivering services to the Ministry of Defence in the United Kingdom, and 24 years providing maritime services to the Royal Australian Navy, our expertise in complex project management and vessel operation has ensured Nuyina is both fit-for-purpose and in the best hands under our crew’s operation,” Thomas said.

According to a release from Serco Australia, the ship is expected to complete two voyages across the Southern Ocean this season.