Gdynia Maritime University GMU

On 19 February 2025, HM The Rector of Gdynia Maritime University, Professor Adam Weintrit, took part in an event to mark the anniversary of the foundation of the Polish Navy Hydrographic Office at the Polish Naval Museum in Gdynia. The event celebrated the 105th anniversary of the establishment of the Office’s predecessor, the ‘Hydrographic Service’, and was opened with a speech by the Head of the Hydrographic Office, Acting Commander Dariusz Beczek. After the official ceremony, a paper session took place during which a talk was given by Commander (retired) Dr Czesław Dyrcz entitled “The Navy’s Hydrographic Office - in Pursuit of Better Understanding of Our Sea”.

Celebrations also included a performance by the Vocal Group of the “Riviera” Navy Club, and a social gathering of staff members and guests in the Club.

The Hydrographic Service was founded on 19 February 1920 as one of the first institutions of maritime Poland. Its first head was Navy Captain Józef Unrug, and the first hydrographic vessel was the ORP Pomorzanin. The Hydrographic Service reported to the Navy’s Department of Maritime Affairs. Its responsibilities included overseeing the safety of navigation in Polish maritime waters, providing ships with essential charts and navigational aids, conducting measurements at sea and along the coast necessary for the preparation of nautical charts and navigational instructions, supplying Navy Command with hydrological and hydrographic data for operational purposes, and training personnel.