RSV Nuyina approaching the Vlissingen shipyards in the Netherlands on Saturday morning. Photo: Mark de Wolf
Australia’s new icebreaker RSV Nuyina has arrived in the Netherlands after a 6,800-kilometre journey from its Romanian shipyard. The move to the Dutch port of Vlissingen signifies a significant step forward in the project, enabling equipment manufacturers and technical experts to complete final commissioning activities suspended by COVID-19 restrictions.
The vessel will now undergo testing of its state-of-the-art propulsion, electrical and navigation systems, the final stage of harbour testing before sea trials.
The 16,300 tonne icebreaker was towed through the Black Sea, the Mediterranean Sea and the Strait of Gibraltar on its 26-day journey, arriving in the port of Vlissingen on Saturday.
Serco RSV Nuyina Project Director David Astbury said the team had worked innovatively through COVID restrictions to ensure the commissioning activities could progress.
“While the pandemic has delivered unprecedented challenges to the project, the team has worked in consultation with our customer the Australian Antarctic Division and shipbuilder Damen to ensure work can continue on the vessel in the Netherlands safely and effectively.
“This move will ultimately ensure the Nuyina is ready for service next year.”
The Nuyina en route to the Netherlands. Photo: Damen
ENDS
Media contact: Tim Evans, +61 409 389 358
General media enquiries: Serco media line, +61 (0) 2 9409 8700 or [email protected]