Specialized ships engaged in oceanographic research, marine exploration, offshore exploration and survey, fisheries and biological research, hydrography, mineral survey and meteorogical observations. Deck machinery supporting the scientific mission consists of cranes, trawling/coring winches and special overside-handling equipment.
See also Fishery research vessel G.O. SARS, Fishery research vessel CELTIC EXPLORER,Oceanographic research vessel RRS JAMES COOK.