NTNU's research vessel, R/V Gunnerus, was put into operation in spring 2006. The ship is fitted with a dynamic positioning system and a HiPap 500 unit, optimal for ROV operations and the positioning of any deployed equipment.

R/V Gunnerus official web site

R/V Gunnerus starboard side view. Photo: Fredrik Skoglund

Gunnerus is equipped with the latest technology for a variety of research activities within biology, technology, geology, archeology, oceanography and fisheries research. The ship is fitted with a dynamic positioning system and a HiPap 500 unit. This provides optimal conditions for ROV operations and the positioning of any deployed equipment. In addition to research, the ship is used for educational purposes and is an important platform for marine courses at all levels and disciplines.

The diesel electric system of Gunnerus has been specially designed for low hydroacoustic noise levels to accommodate testing and development of hydroacoustic equipment. The vessel is arranged with wet lab, dry lab and a computer lab in addition to a large aft deck. Accommodation comprise three double berth scientific personnel cabins and three single berth crew cabins. The large mess hall functions as a lecture room for 25 people.

History

The ship is named after Johan Ernst Gunnerus (1718-1773) who was an active scientist within bothany and zoology, Bishop in Trondheim and one of the founders of Det Kongelige Norske Videnskapers Selskap. Gunnerus is the second ship with the same name in service for research in the Trondheimsfjord. The first Gunnerus was built in 1919 an put into service 1920, designed at NTH for biological research at Trondhjem Biological Station.

Guests from many countries used this versatile ship until it was seized by the Germans during WWII. After the war the vessel was returned, but so much had been changed that it no longer was functional as a research vessel. Gunnerus was sold in 1952 and eventually went down in Lysøysundet in the 1970´s.

More information

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• R/V Gunnerus