Recently, the vessel Skagerak has undergone all necessary sea trials to measure the ship's performance and general seaworthiness.
– There were many big smiles when it turned out that all sea trials worked. What remains now are smaller things that can be solved, says Mats Hjortberg, one of two project managers.
The shipbuilding has previously had problems with the propulsion. The procured subcontractor has completed its assignment and the propulsion is now working.
– It has gone well but we have worked very intensively so that the ship could be certified today, says Mats Hjortberg.
After completed sea trials, tests of the scientific equipment began.
– The researchers have just had training in how to use the scientific equipment. The vessel contains advanced technology, so there are many new things to be acquainted with, says project manager Roger Karlsson.
Dynamic positioning – completion next winter
At the end of 2020, the steering group for the ship project decided that the installation of another thruster will be done next winter. It was after a careful analysis of the vessel's ability that it turned out that the vessel does not have sufficient capacity in terms of dynamic positioning, also called DP. DP is a computer-controlled system used to automatically keep a ship's position and course constant only by using the ship's propellers and thrusters.
Gothenburg becomes home port
Gothenburg will be the home port for R/V Skagerak. This was decided by the dean of the Faculty of Science at the end of May.
The marine infrastructure, a group of ship users together with the property and service unit, has investigated various alternatives to home ports from perspectives such as use, accessibility, safety and economy. The search area included Halland, Gothenburg and Bohuslän.
– Overall, a berth at Nya Varvet in Gothenburg is the best alternative, as the quay can be easily adapted and there is proximity to university activities such as the SCOOT project and organisations such as MMT and SMHI. The site also offers good visibility for the vessel in Gothenburg, says Dean Göran Hilmersson.
However, the vessel will remain at the shipyard in Falkenberg for a few more days for minor work and is expected to arrive in Gothenburg during week 27.
Inauguration in October
The vessel will be inaugurated on October 15 by HM King Carl XVI Gustaf. An event is currently planned for 40 specially invited guests with speeches by HM King Carl XVI Gustaf, Vice-Chancellor of the University of Gothenburg Eva Wiberg and Governor Anders Danielsson, but the number of guests can be increased if the restrictions as a result of covid-19 will allow it.
At the inauguration, four marine researchers from the University of Gothenburg will lecture and then participate in a roundtable discussion with HM King Carl XVI Gustaf. The working group for the inauguration also plans for tours of the vessel for staff.
Text: Carina Eliasson & Tanja Thompson
