R/V Aranda is the third research vessel carrying the name with pride, and the fourth proper research vessel in the history of Finnish marine research. The first vessel built for research purposes was S/S Nautilus, which was in operation 1903–1939. Before that, already in the late 1900’s, observations in marine science were made using various state-owned ships.
The modern Aranda was launched in Helsinki in June 1989. The vessel is owned by the Finnish Environment Institute (SYKE), and its home port is Helsinki. During 2017–2018 Aranda underwent a major refit and modification at Rauma Marine Constructions´ dockyard in Rauma, Finland. Her LOA was increased, stern section was reformed, propulsion was changed to diesel-electric, and the ship was modernized in many ways. Important goals in the refit were low emitted sound levels to sea, and a smaller carbon footprint. Aranda’s length is 66.3 m, beam 13.8 m, and gross tonnage 1969 GT. Aranda can now accommodate 27 scientists.
Aranda is a modern, ice-reinforced research vessel. She was planned for Baltic Sea research, but in principle, she is able to operate in all seas. Aranda has made scientific expeditions i.a. to Antarctic waters and the Northern Atlantic. The vessel is adapted to year-round multidisciplinary marine research, including chemistry, biology, physics and geology of the sea. The well-equipped laboratories and advanced computer systems facilitate sample treatment and data analysis under way.
What happens on Aranda. Watch the video and find out. There are also subtitles in English and this you may choose under the settings.
RV Aranda video - YouTube
As a result of advanced automation the functions the modern Aranda can be managed by a crew of 12–13 persons. The manoeuvrability of Aranda has been dimensioned for demanding research work, the ship being able to stay exactly in position at a station with the aid of DGPS and DP systems. Aranda has the equipment to receive satellite and weather images, and its own versatile weather station. Drinking water can be produced out of seawater by an apparatus using reverse osmosis. These installations are important for the research and sea safety on long cruises. All waste water is collected into tanks onboard, and pumped into sewage system at port. For longer oceanic voyages, the ship can be equipped with its biological waste water treatment plant.
Aranda’s propulsion is now purely diesel-electric, facilitating accurate, silent and energy-efficient maneuvering. There is enough power to operate in the Baltic Sea all year round and in Polar ice margin regions during three seasons.