RRS James Cook arrives in Falmouth for refit programme
RRS James Cook is one of two UK research vessels being maintained at Falmouth this year (Source: ap-group.co.uk)
The UK-flagged research vessel RRS James Cook has arrived at Balaena’s Falmouth facility to begin refit and maintenance work under a multi-million-pound contract with the National Oceanography Centre (NOC).
The agreement covers refit and maintenance programmes for both RRS James Cook and the also UK-flagged RRS Discovery, two of the UK's principal oceanographic research vessels. Balaena secured the contract earlier this year and said the work would draw on the yard’s shiprepair facilities, technical expertise and project management capabilities.
Operated by the National Oceanography Centre, RRS James Cook supports a wide range of scientific missions, from polar and equatorial research to deep-sea exploration. The vessel is capable of supporting operations from the ocean surface to depths of 6,000 metres and plays a key role in marine science programmes conducted by UK and international research teams.
Balaena said the maintenance programme is intended to keep the vessel operational while minimising time out of service. The company described the contract as an endorsement of its shiprepair capabilities and of its relationship with the National Oceanography Centre.
Commenting on the project, Balaena said it was “delighted to play a role in keeping these nationally important research vessels operational, combining specialist facilities, technical expertise and experienced project management to deliver essential maintenance while minimising vessel downtime”.
The arrival of RRS James Cook marks the latest stage in the long-term maintenance programme, with Balaena also scheduled to support RRS Discovery as both vessels continue scientific research and ocean exploration missions.
