Marine and fisheries operations: future vessel concepts

Overview

Marine Directorate intends to procure a new research vessel to replace MRV Scotia. The vessel will operate year-round in the Scottish part of the UK EEZ and adjacent waters, supporting fisheries research, acoustic surveys, and oceanographic missions.

Indicative principal particulars

Maximum Length Overall: 85.0 m
Maximum Breadth: 19.0 m
Maximum Draught: 6.0 m
Endurance: 28 days at 11 knots
Speed: 13.25 knots (max), Trawling (Max): 7 knots
Crew & Scientists: 21+19 = 40
Workboat: RIB style, Maximum 8.0 m

Propulsion and energy concept

Diesel-electric hybrid arrangement with dual-fuel readiness (Marine Gas Oil and Methanol). Battery support for low-emission operations and shore power interface. Dynamic Positioning capability for station-keeping during scientific operations.

Mission concept

The vessel will support multidisciplinary research: fisheries trawling, hydrographic surveys, acoustic monitoring, and oceanographic sampling. Facilities include wet and dry laboratories, acoustic lab, and hangar for scientific equipment. Deck layout will allow deployment of trawl gear, CTD frames, and research winches. Drop keels for transducers and advanced sonar systems will be integrated.

Environmental and compliance goals

Design will meet UK MCA requirements, Lloyd’s Register classification (or other UK recognised Class Organisation), and IMO environmental standards. Emphasis on low underwater radiated noise (SILENT-R principles), energy efficiency, and compliance with ballast water and sewage treatment regulations.

Concept general arrangement (indicative zones)

Below is a schematic-style representation of key zones: