Two new research ships for ocean data commissioned - Germany invests €324.7M in four cutting-edge maritime research and pilot vessels

Germany is upgrading its maritime fleet with four new vessels for pilot transfers and scientific research. The Federal Waterways and Shipping Administration (GDWS) and the Federal Maritime and Hydrographic Agency (BSH) have each ordered two ships, costing a combined €324.7 million. The projects aim to modernise operations in the North and Baltic Seas. The BSH has commissioned two research vessels, Wega and Deneb, set to begin service in 2029. These ships will replace older vessels of the same names. Wega will operate from Hamburg, while Deneb will be based in Rostock. Each new vessel measures 70 metres long, 15 metres wide, and has a draft of 4.2 metres, with space for 18 crew members and seven scientists.

In 2024, the BSH’s existing ships covered 25,000 kilometres, sampling 400 measurement points across the North and Baltic Seas. They also identified twelve new underwater hazards. The agency’s multipurpose vessels conduct seabed surveys, investigate obstacles, and supply data to defence and security authorities.

Meanwhile, the GDWS has ordered two pilot transfer vessels to replace the ageing Duhnen and Döse, both stationed in Cuxhaven. The new ships are under construction at Abeking & Rasmussen in Lemwerder, Lower Saxony. Their combined price tag stands at €54.7 million. The four vessels will enhance Germany’s maritime capabilities, from pilot transfers to environmental research. The BSH’s new ships alone account for €270 million of the total investment. Operations are expected to improve efficiency and data collection in northern European waters.