The ship is described as “one of the most relevant infrastructures” of the Azores Sea Cluster, financed by the Recovery and Resilience Plan (PRR).
The Azorean executive (PSD/CDS-PP/PPM) states that the vessel is expected to arrive in the archipelago by the end of 2025, at which time it will be integrated into the regional strategy for scientific and technological development related to the sea, in conjunction with the future Tecnopolo — Martec Research Center, to be built in the city of Horta, on Faial Island.
With an investment of approximately 20 million euros, the Azores Ocean is designed as a modern, technologically advanced, and energy-efficient research platform, featuring diesel-electric propulsion, a 15-day autonomy, and a capacity for 30 people onboard.
Outfitted with laboratories, a data center, and acoustic mapping systems reaching depths of up to 5,000 meters, the ship will facilitate biological, biotechnological, and energy prospecting missions, contributing to the production of knowledge and scientific innovation, according to the Regional Government.
During the ceremony in the city of Horta, José Manuel Bolieiro, President of the Azores Government, emphasized that “the Azores Ocean will serve the whole of Portugal,” highlighting that this platform “consolidates the region’s role in research and reflects the Atlantic vision of a country that values knowledge and sustainability.”
“We are more sea than land and are enhancing with science an Atlantic country with global relevance,” stated the executive head, noting the archipelago’s contribution to biodiversity protection and advancement in marine conservation policies.
José Manuel Bolieiro also expressed that “the Azores aim to be significant in a future being constructed in the present, through sustainability, science, research, and service to humanity,” reiterating that this project exemplifies cooperation and strategic vision shared between the region and the state.
The Regional Government underscored that this agreement “strengthens strategic cooperation between the two entities, enabling more efficient use of public resources and ensuring coordination between scientific research and national jurisdiction security and maritime surveillance missions.”
