Keel laid for Canadian Coast Guard’s newest OOSV

Seaspan Shipyards (Seaspan), Canada’s strategic shipbuilding partner for large non-combat vessels under Canada’s National Shipbuilding Strategy (NSS), and the Canadian Coast Guard (CCG) have reached an important milestone with the keel-laying ceremony for the offshore oceanographic science vessel (OOSV).

The keel laying is a significant milestone in a ship’s construction, during which a coin is placed near the keel, where it will remain for the duration of the ship’s life. 

This OOSV will deliver much-needed fleet capability for the CCG and an oceanographic science platform for a broad range of Canadian Government departments and scientists. It will support a wide range of oceanographic, fishery, geological and hydrographic survey missions.

These missions will advance scientific knowledge about the oceans, the seabed and the impacts of climate change, and help lead to healthier, more sustainable ocean ecosystems.

Equipped with the latest scientific research apparatus, this floating laboratory will be outfitted with specialized equipment that includes several wet and dry labs, an ocean sampling room, a scientific seawater system for studying oxygen levels, temperature and salinity, and a drop keel and sensor suite for collecting and analyzing data.

The ship will also perform search and rescue operations and environmental response as needed by the CCG.  

“The new OOSV will serve as the main platform for ocean science to help us understand and chart our seabed, protect our marine environment, and restore the health of our oceans. Congratulations to Seaspan’s Vancouver Shipyard workers as they reach this important milestone for this new ship,” Joyce Murray, Minister of Fisheries, Oceans and the Canadian Coast Guard commented.

“With the Offshore Oceanographic Science Vessel, we are progressing through construction of the third fleet of NSS vessels Seaspan will build, and we are delivering on our commitment to rebuilding a strong marine industry in Canada,” John McCarthy, Chief Executive Officer, Seaspan Shipyards noted.