Two new research ships for ocean data commissioned - Germany Invests €270M in Two Cutting-Edge Maritime Research Vessels

Germany’s Federal Maritime and Hydrographic Agency (BSH) has ordered two new research vessels, Wega and Deneb, to strengthen maritime data collection. The ships will replace older models of the same names starting in 2029. Their role includes mapping the seabed, identifying underwater hazards, and supporting environmental monitoring.

The Wega and Deneb will each measure 70 metres long, 15 metres wide, and have a draft of 4.2 metres. The total cost for both vessels reaches €270 million. Once operational, Wega will stay based in Hamburg, while Deneb will be homeported in Rostock.

In 2024, the BSH’s five existing ships covered around 25,000 kilometres in the North and Baltic Seas. They sampled 400 measurement points, tracking over 100 pollutants as part of routine environmental checks. That same year, the agency also discovered twelve new underwater hazards. The BSH’s multipurpose ships carry out seabed surveys for nautical charts and investigate obstacles that could threaten shipping. Their work ensures safer navigation and updated maritime records. Separately, the Federal Waterways and Shipping Administration (GDWS) has commissioned two new pilot transfer vessels for €54.7 million. These will assist with boarding and disembarking pilots in busy shipping lanes.

The new Wega and Deneb will expand the BSH’s ability to monitor marine conditions and detect hazards. Their deployment in 2029 follows years of research and survey work by the agency’s current fleet. The vessels will also support ongoing efforts to track pollution and maintain accurate nautical data.