Research Vessel Mya II

The 21-metre-long Mya II is the newest member of the AWI research fleet and sails for the AWI Sylt in the Wadden Sea between Sylt and Rømø as well as up to the island of Helgoland in the North Sea.

"It may be our smallest research vessel, but it is highly modern and very well equipped for coastal research."
Prof. Dr Karin Lochte, Director of the Alfred Wegener institute, about RV Mya II when it was commissioned in August, 2013.

Up to twelve scientists conduct research aboard the Mya II. With the help of the ship's modern equipment, researchers observe, for example, material flows between the different levels of the food web. Geologists use various measurement data to calculate, among other things, where which sediments are deposited, what the structure of the seabed is like and for which organisms it is suitable as a habitat.

Among other things, a current meter and a multibeam sonar are available for this work. The scientists also have access to an echo sounder for estimating the biomass of fish, for example, as well as various devices for deploying measuring systems and several sampling devices.

Mya II is also a training ship for young scientists. Students, interns and participants in graduate schools are constant guests on Sylt. They learn how to use modern oceanographic equipment on board Mya II.

To protect the Wadden Sea, the AWI has laid much emphasis on environmentally friendly technology by the construction of Mya II. A biocide-free hull coating was chosen, soot filters for the engines and an emission purification system were installed. Therefore, Mya II was awarded with the “Blue Angel” eco-label for ship design.