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Horyzont II

Launched on 22 June 1999 at the Gdańsk ‘Remontowa’ Shipyard in Poland, Horyzont II is a purpose-built, ice-strengthened vessel designed to bridge world-class scientific inquiry with hands-on maritime training. Built to withstand demanding polar environments, the ship routinely undertakes high-latitude Arctic expeditions to Spitsbergen, seamlessly combining oceanographic research with vital logistical support for polar research stations. 

Onboard accommodations cater for up to 57 crew members, scientists, and cadets in comfortable single and multi-berth cabins. 

 

Core Roles & Capabilities

Oceanographic & Marine Research

Horyzont II serves as a versatile, low-impact floating laboratory for GMU Maritime Institute-led research and international scientific charters: 

  • Customisable Modular Laboratories: Features two fully adaptable ISO laboratory containers, tailored to specific hydrographic, biological, or chemical expedition needs. 
  • High-Resolution Seabed Mapping: Equipped with multibeam echosounder systems for detailed bathymetric surveys and swath seabed profiling down to depths of 600 metres.
  • Deep-Water & Environmental Sampling: Outfitted with multi-water sampler systems (MWS) operating down to 3,000 metres, acoustic Doppler current profilers (ADCP), and real-time telemetry buoy deployment capabilities for comprehensive water column analysis.
  • Forward-Looking Sonar & Heavy Deck Handling: Features 180-degree forward-scanning acoustic sonar for navigation in shallow or icy waters, supported by onboard Palfinger/NOREQ marine cranes and heavy-duty deck winches for deploying heavy oceanographic gear.

Practical Maritime Education

Engineered as an active, high-seas learning platform, the vessel offers immersive vocational sea time for cadets and students: 

  • Mirror Navigation Suite: Alongside the main bridge, a dedicated training cabin features four student workstations that fully replicate the bridge's navigational controls for real-time simulation and watchkeeping. 
  • Hands-On Engineering & Automation: Integrated engine control rooms and modern propulsion suites provide practical operational training for marine engineers, deck officers, and electro-technical specialists. 
  • Dedicated Instructional Facilities: Includes a 32-seat lecture room and an integrated computing centre for coursework and data processing while underway. 

Polar Logistics & Specialised Cargo

Horyzont II acts as a vital lifeline to remote research installations in high latitudes: 

  • Containerised Freight Support: Accommodates two 20 ft ISO cargo containers (including temperature-controlled refrigerated units) on deck. 
  • Arctic Lifeline: Regularly supplies fuel, provisions, and delicate scientific equipment to Polish Academy of Sciences (PAN) polar stations in Svalbard. 

Onboard Comfort & Seakeeping

Designed for extended endurance voyages in harsh seas: 

  • High-standard living quarters with private en-suite facilities. 
  • Dedicated crew lounges, separate student messes, and well-appointed social spaces fostering strong shipboard community during multi-week expeditions.