Gqeberha – Thousands of people took the free guided tours of South Africa’s Polar Research and Supply vessel – the SA Agulhas II – during the Open Day in Gqeberha, Eastern Cape.
The Open Day on Saturday, hosted by the Department of Forestry, Fisheries, and the Environment, attracted more than 3 000 people who toured the vessel, which arrived at the port of Port Elizabeth on Thursday, (16 May 2024).
The following day, (17 May 2024), 1 000 learners from 40 schools around the Metro were hosted by the SA Agulhas II.
In addition to exploring the SA Agulhas II, visitors on both days were able to engage with a diverse range of exhibits and interactive displays at an expo organised by the department and its partners.
The expo showcased the vital work being done in marine research, conservation, and environmental stewardship.
“We are thrilled with the overwhelming response by the residents of Gqeberha to the SA Agulhas II Open Day in Gqeberha,” said Forestry, Fisheries, and Environment Minister Barbara Creecy.
“This event provided a fantastic platform for the public to learn about the important research conducted aboard the SA Agulhas II and the critical role it plays as a supply vessel to the three research bases in Antarctica, Marion and Gough Islands in the Southern Ocean.”
The open day offered a valuable opportunity for members of the community to gain insight into the cutting-edge research and innovation driving South Africa’s efforts in marine conservation.
The department said it extends its gratitude to all partners and participants who contributed to the event’s success.
The SA Agulhas II is South Africa’s state-of-the-art Polar Research and Supply vessel that services three research bases in Antarctica, Marion and Gough Islands.
It therefore plays a crucial role in supporting the country’s research in Antarctica, the sub-Antarctic Islands, and the Southern Ocean.
The SA Agulhas II has just completed a relief voyage to Marion Island and is heading back to its home port in Cape Town.
Through the open day concept, which is usually hosted in Cape Town, thousands of South Africans in different coastal cities have an opportunity to experience and learn about South Africa’s marine research, the SA Agulhas II as a mobile research laboratory and a supply vessel.
The ports previously visited by the vessel include Port Elizabeth (2015), Durban (2018), Dar es Salaam (2018), Comors (2019) Comoros, and East London (2019).
