Research ship

British Antarctic Survey began operating the ice-strengthened Royal Research Ship Sir David Attenborough (SDA) from late 2021. The ship is registered at Stanley in the Falkland Islands.

RRS Sir David Attenborough

The RRS Sir David Attenborough, commissioned by NERC, built by Cammell Laird for operation by British Antarctic Survey, is one of the most advanced polar research vessels in the world.

Science this season

It's an exciting time on board RRS Sir David Attenborough.... The first big science season on board our big red ship is about to begin!

Science facilities – RRS Sir David Attenborough

Scientific facilities and capability

Panoramic view of the RRS Sir David Attenborough's Bridge - a large room with panoramic windows and control desks

Operational facilities – RRS Sir David Attenborough

Boats, cargo, helideck and hangar

SDA Science Trials

RRS Sir David Attenborough carries out cold water science trials.
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Diagram of the RRS Sir David Attenborough

Virtual Tour – RRS Sir David Attenborough

Welcome aboard the RRS Sir David Attenborough. The new polar ship is commissioned by NERC, built by Cammell Laird and operated by BAS.

People working on the sea ice next to the hull of a large boat

Science at sea

Enabling frontier science

Shipborne engineering and technology

Enabling scientific investigation in deep-sea biology, biogeochemistry and seafloor geology

SDA crew celebrate successful trials on the sea ice in front of the ship

Research outputs