KPI 2
At least 200 sailing days spent on scientific research, monitoring and education each year.
VLIZ provides researchers with logistical support by ensuring the management, maintenance and operation of research infrastructure and equipment. RV Simon Stevin is deployed for academic coastal oceanographic research in the Southern Bight of the North Sea and the eastern part of the English Channel. It also serves as a training platform for students from marine sciences as well as maritime training courses. In 2023, a total of 1139 people, including 758 scientists/divers and 381 students, boarded the ship. Eleven marine research groups made use of RV Simon Stevin within the scope of 30 different projects. RIB Zeekat can be deployed from the research vessel Simon Stevin or from the shore, including for sampling in coastal waters, the Belgian ports and the Scheldt estuary. The reinforced keel is designed to run the vessel aground on tidal banks.
