Voith power for German scientific research vessel

At the heart of the R/V FALKOR II’s efficiency is its Voith Schneider Propeller (VSP), known for its minimal noise emissions, maximum manoeuvrability and active roll stabilisation – key features essential for marine research.

“For all the criteria important to the customer, the powerful Voith Schneider Propellers installed over ten years ago continue to offer unbeatable benefits and a major edge over competitors,” said Michael Rommel, head of sales & application management marine at Voith.

Clever conversion

Initially already designed to meet the highest requirements, the two VSP 36R6 ECR/300-2 in the stern will help ensure the necessary thrust and comfort of the vessel meaning that the crew on board will be able to work safely, even in rough seas.

Built to accommodate 98 people and featuring 980 square meters of state-of-the-art research space, the vessel is equipped with eight laboratories and cutting-edge equipment, including systems for microplastic analysis. 

The research vessel also boasts a special system for microplastic water analysis and three multibeam echosounder arrays, 11 tonnes of sonars and 15 other acoustic sensors. 

Originally built by GC Rieber as the Polar Queen, the 110-metre R/V FALKOR II was purchased and refurbished by the Schmidt Ocean Institute (SOI) in 2021.

Since then, the institute, founded by Eric and Wendy Schmidt in 2009, has been at the forefront of oceanographic research, providing R/V FALKOR II to the global research community free of charge.