Serco’s crew is currently at the helm of RSV Nuyina, leading the Australian Antarctic Division Southern Ocean voyages over the summer.
Nuyina has set off on its 6,150 nautical mile (11,400 km) journey south from Hobart to Davis and Casey research stations to transit helicopters and deliver fuel, before completing various science commissioning activities.
Serco Maritime Managing Director Clint Thomas, AM, CSC, said Serco is proud to play such an important role in supporting 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,” Mr Thomas said.
On this voyage, Serco will transport 33 expeditioners and deliver 1,500 tonnes of equipment and supplies, including 1.1 million litres of Special Antarctic Blend fuel to Australia’s Casey research station on the Antarctic continent.
“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,” Mr Thomas said.
“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.”
Serco Australia project managed the overall ship design and build and will operate and maintain the vessel 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,” Mr Thomas said.
Nuyina will complete two Southern Ocean voyages over this Antarctic season.
