Investigating Our Oceans

Australian marine services company Teekay is set to deliver a world-class research ship that will help us better understand our oceans, climate change and weather.

Given the name RV Investigator after a national naming competition, the 89-metre ship will accommodate 40 scientists and cover 10,000 nautical miles in each voyage. Scientists from around the world will use the ship to undertake vital marine research that will inform our sustainable ocean management practices.

Celebrating the signing today of a contract between Teekay and the Australian Government for the design and construction of the RV Investigator Innovation Minister, Senator Kim Carr said the commissioning of the ship represents the Gillard Labor Government’s commitment to provide our scientists with the best kit possible.

“Australia has the world’s third largest ocean territory. It is rich in unique biodiversity and valuable resources. But only 12 per cent of the area is mapped,” Senator Carr said.

“The long-range research ability of the RV Investigator will allow scientists to understand our entire oceans — from the tropical north to the Antarctic ice-edge.

“I am pleased Teekay will be delivering the project. They have an impeccable track record in marine services and I believe they are well placed to deliver this important national research tool.”

Teekay Holdings Australia Pty Ltd was selected following a rigorous procurement process undertaken by the CSIRO. During the process, Teekay showed they could design and build the RV Investigator while delivering value for money based on their extensive ability.

The RV Investigator will be built in Singapore, by Teekay’s partners Sembawang Shipyard Pte Ltd. As a condition of their approved Australian Industry Participation Plan, Teekay will ensure Australian suppliers and expertise are used where possible.

The CSIRO will own and operate the RV Investigator on behalf of the Australian research community. The ship is scheduled to begin operating by mid 2013 and will be used by Australian universities, research organisations and their international collaborators.

The RV Investigator will replace the RV Southern Surveyor, which is operated by Australia’s Marine National Facility.

For more information on the RV Investigator, visit www.csiro.au.