KAUST has recently acquired Saudi Arabia’s first research vessel, the R/V Thuwal. This vessel will help grant next-level research of the largely unexplored Red Sea. It is also especially exciting for KAUST marine science students, who will gain valuable experience through increased hands-on field work.
The 34.7 meter-long R/V Thuwal, which was previously used as a survey boat, was purchased from an Australian boat builder. The multi-utility vessel was loaded onto a larger ship and began its journey towards Saudi Arabia from Fremantle, Australia on July 31, 2013. After stops in Mauritius and Seychelles, it arrived at the port of Jeddah on August 22 and will be received at KAUST on Sunday, September 1.
The KAUST community is invited to be a part of welcoming our first research vessel:
R/V Thuwal Reception
Sunday, September 1
4:00 p.m.
Al Marsa Marina