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RV Kronprins Haakon


The research vessel Kronprins Haakon

«Kronprins Haakon»

The research vessel Kronprins Haakon has been built to operate in challenging ice conditions, which means it can go further north and south than any other Norwegian research vessel. It is equipped with the very latest high-tech equipment, enabling us to perform more complex studies.

RV "Kronprins Haakon" has a cruising speed of 15 knots and is capable of breaking through ice up to one metre thickness. "Kronprins Haakon" represents a state-of-the-art for research vessels.

The ship is owned by the Norwegian Polar Institute while the time available for research is divided between three Norwegian institutions as follows:

  • 50% UiT The Arctic University of Norway 
  • 30% Norwegian Polar Institute
  • 20% Institute of Marine Research (operating)

The Institute of Marine Research is also the operationally responsible organization. 

The Norwegian Government decided in October 2012 to build a new polar research vessel. The Institute of Marine Research was in charge of the project, a total budget of approx 1400 mill. NOK, or app. 175 mill €. The new vessel was designed by Rolls Royce Marine.

See the building prosess here

See also the article: The Kronprins Haakon sails for the Antarctic (january 2019)