The RSV Nuyina, operated by Serco, has completed a 9-week dedicated marine science voyage to the Denman Glacier, as a part of the Australian Antarctic Program. In completing its third 2024/25 season voyage, the Nuyina has facilitated research and navigated through harsh environmental conditions.
“This science voyage of the Nuyina was a very ambitious programme of operations, however everyone really put in the effort to learn…leading to ultimately a very safe and successful voyage,” Master Paul Clarke said.
The Australian Antarctic Program had previously been unable to access Antarctica’s Denman Glacier – which is of prime scientific interest as one of the largest, least-studied glaciers, with the potential to raise sea levels by 1.5m if it melts entirely – because of the Glacier’s extreme geographical remoteness and logistical challenges.
“The weather and ice always drive our schedule in the Antarctic. On one day, the wind increased until it was blowing consistently over 50 knots – this means almost zero visibility, and the air temperature remained down at -16°C. However, the ship held position really well.”
The purpose of the voyage was to leverage the Nuyina’s alleged unique combined capabilities as an icebreaker and research vessel to allow Australian scientists to conduct critical studies.
“While during a usual resupply trip we would wait until the weather improves, the main difference on this voyage was that we were trying to keep working through as much as was safe,” Clarke explained. “The operations planned had to remain flexible, as often while one thing was outside safe operating limits, another could go ahead.”
The Denman Glacier, for the Serco crew, has, according to Serco, assisted the Australian Antarctic Program to make new discoveries and lay the groundwork for future insights.