Unveiling Northern Ireland’s Newest Research Vessel for Fishery and Oceanographic Studies: The AFBI’s Hybrid Propulsion System and Underwater Noise Compliance

In 2027, the Agri-Food and Biosciences Institute (AFBI) of Belfast, Northern Ireland will receive a new research vessel from Spanish shipbuilder Armon. The vessel, designed by Skipsteknisk, will be used for fishery and oceanographic research and will meet the strict underwater noise requirements defined in the ICES 209 report.

The vessel will have a length of 53 meters and will be arranged for a crew of 12 plus 12 scientists. It will also feature a hybrid propulsion system with a large battery pack, allowing emission-free operations for sustained periods of up to 21 days. The propulsion system can also be configured to run on biofuel.

The new AFBI research vessel will replace the 35-year-old Corystes and will operate in Northern Ireland’s coastal waters, the Irish Sea, and adjacent waters. The project is expected to be completed and delivered by Armon in 2027.