RV Diplodus undergoes major rehabilitation to boost coastal research capabilities
The research vessel (RV) Diplodus, part of the Portuguese Institute for the Sea and Atmosphere’s (IPMA) coastal fleet, has docked at the Marina Formosa Algarve Boatyard in Olhão on April, 24th, for a comprehensive maintenance and modernization operation.This scheduled intervention aims to extend the vessel’s operational lifespan and enhance its reliability in support of IPMA’s coastal scientific missions.
The RV Diplodus plays a vital role in research and monitoring initiatives focused on small-scale fisheries, marine geology, geophysics, and coastal resource management.The refurbishment includes extensive work on the vessel’s hull and propulsion systems, upgrades to scientific and technical equipment, and improvements to onboard safety and comfort. These enhancements are critical to maintaining the quality of data collection and ensuring mission effectiveness.
The intervention, amounting to nearly half a million euros, is funded by the Mar2030 Programme under the MOPPA project, which supports the broader goal of improving governance and the sustainable management of small-scale coastal fisheries. This effort aligns with the EU’s Common Fisheries Policy and Portugal’s Strategic Plan for Small-scale Fisheries 2022–2030.
Following the refurbishment, RV Diplodus is expected to return to service in summer 2025, resuming its key role in shellfish bed monitoring campaigns along the Portuguese mainland coast as part of the MOPPA programme.
