RV Meteor IV

The new RV Meteor IV will be one of Germany’s largest and most capable multidisciplinary oceanographic research vessels. Operated by the GEOMAR Helmholtz-Center for Ocean Research and managed by the German Research Fleet Coordination Centre at the University of Hamburg, the vessel will enter service in 2026 as the successor to the long-serving RV Meteor III.

The approximately 98-m-long ship is designed for global operations, particularly in the Atlantic Ocean and Mediterranean Sea. It supports a broad spectrum of marine research disciplines, including physical oceanography, marine geosciences, marine chemistry, and biological oceanography. Advanced hydroacoustic systems, dynamic positioning, and a wide range of scientific winches and cranes enable complex sampling and survey operations.

RV Meteor typically accommodates about 30 scientists alongside a crew of around 30. Modern laboratory facilities, container lab capacity, and large working decks provide flexible infrastructure for multidisciplinary expeditions lasting several weeks to months.