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Vessels & Stations.
S.A. Agulhas II
S.A. Agulhas II is a South African ice breaking polar supply and research ship owned by the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment (DFFE).
SANAE IV
The first South African National Antarctic Expedition (SANAE) departed in 1959.
Marion Island
The Marion base is used mainly for environmental/biological research, and weather data collection.
Gough Island
South Africa has been operating a weather station on Gough Island since 1956.
SANAE IV
SANAE IVExplore more
Expeditions &
Operations.
Voyages to Antarctica, Marion Island and Gough Island take place annually to replenish supplies and exchange personnel.
Team Structure.
Supplies.
The Voyage.
Living at the Station.
Learn more
Discover.
The South African National Antarctic Programme (SANAP) consists of three stations, countless research projects, and a history of dedicated team members.
Team Photos.
Research.
Newsletters.
Legacy.
What’s happening
Latest News.
Welcome Home, Gough 70 Overwintering Team!
Welcome back, Gough 70 — and thank you for your service and passion for discovery in one of the most remote corners of the world.
Maritime Month
South Africa celebrates maritime month and highlights the significance of our oceans to trade, research, and environmental sustainability. As a nation deeply intertwined with the Southern Ocean, South Africa’s maritime strength extends far beyond its ports — it reaches all the way to Antarctica through the work of the South African National Antarctic Programme (SANAP).
SANSA: Volunteer position for relief voyage to SANAE IV, Antarctica
A unique opportunity for individuals with a scientific and/or engineering background, who are eager for an extraordinary experience in a remote Antarctic environment.
World Maritime Day 2025: Our Ocean, Our Obligation, Our Opportunity
Through SANAP’s work, South Africa plays an active role in the international maritime and research community—advancing knowledge about ocean systems, contributing to global climate models, and strengthening collective efforts to safeguard marine environments. The SA Agulhas II is more than just a ship; it is a floating laboratory, a logistical lifeline, and a symbol of our commitment to “Our Ocean, Our Obligation, Our Opportunity.”
Welcome Home, Gough 70 Overwintering Team!
Welcome back, Gough 70 — and thank you for your service and passion for discovery in one of the most remote corners of the world.
Maritime Month
South Africa celebrates maritime month and highlights the significance of our oceans to trade, research, and environmental sustainability. As a nation deeply intertwined with the Southern Ocean, South Africa’s maritime strength extends far beyond its ports — it reaches all the way to Antarctica through the work of the South African National Antarctic Programme (SANAP).
SANSA: Volunteer position for relief voyage to SANAE IV, Antarctica
A unique opportunity for individuals with a scientific and/or engineering background, who are eager for an extraordinary experience in a remote Antarctic environment.
World Maritime Day 2025: Our Ocean, Our Obligation, Our Opportunity
Through SANAP’s work, South Africa plays an active role in the international maritime and research community—advancing knowledge about ocean systems, contributing to global climate models, and strengthening collective efforts to safeguard marine environments. The SA Agulhas II is more than just a ship; it is a floating laboratory, a logistical lifeline, and a symbol of our commitment to “Our Ocean, Our Obligation, Our Opportunity.”
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Galleries.
SANAE IV.
Gough Island.
Marion Island.
S.A. Agulhas II.
South African icebreaking polar supply and research ship.
