RRS Sir David Attenborough
The RRS Sir David Attenborough, commissioned by UKRI–NERC, operated by British Antarctic Survey (BAS) is one of the world’s most advanced polar research ships.
The vessel depends on four Bergen B33:45 engines (two L9A and two L6A gensets) for its diesel-electric propulsion and onboard power, delivering the silent, resilient performance required for science in the most remote regions on Earth.
Key Facts
Biofuel Power Since 2025
BAS is rapidly decarbonising its marine fleet, and the Sir David Attenborough has become a key platform for low-carbon innovation. Trials with hydrotreated vegetable oil (HVO) began in 2023, and by the 2025-2026 season, the vessel was undertaking its 6,000-nauticalmile voyage to Uruguay and Antarctica running on HVO.
Bergen engines require no modification to operate on renewable diesel, enabling up to 94% reductions in lifecycle CO emissions without affecting range or scientific capability.
Built for Science
The RRS Sir David Attenborough made its maiden voyage to Antarctica in late 2021, supporting BAS’s five research stations and deploying oceanographic instruments on its first season south. Its operational profile demands exceptionally quiet and low-vibration performance, both to protect marine life and to ensure the accuracy of acoustic and seismic equipment.
Every aspect of the vessel’s design, from hull form to engine foundations, supports quiet operation. The Bergen engines sit on double resilient mounts as part of the ship’s low-noise architecture, preventing vibration from reaching the hull and protecting the performance of scientific transducers.
Contact us
Please fill in your contact details below and we’ll reply as soon as we’re able.
Contact us
Please fill out the enquiry form, and our dedicated team will promptly attend to your request