Officials say the vessel, built at Seaspan’s Vancouver Shipyard under the National Shipbuilding Strategy, can accommodate up to 34 crew and 26 scientists, and will provide them with safer, modern equipment at sea.

MP for Bedford Braedon Clark says, “The arrival of the CCGS Naalak Nappaaluk right here in our community strengthens our legacy and highlights the vital role our region plays in advancing marine science and protecting our oceans for future generations.”

The ship is an Offshore Oceanographic Science Vessel, expected to support marine research in the Atlantic and Arctic and improve understanding of those regions.

Minister of Energy and Natural Resources Tim Hodgson says his department “looks forward to testing and deploying scientific equipment onboard and actively using this vessel to deliver key marine science programs that advance Canada’s commitments to sustainable ocean management at home and abroad.”