South African National Antarctic Programme

S.A. Agulhas II sets sail for Antarctica

by Ria Olivier | Dec 17, 2024 | Antarctica, SA Agulhas II, SANAE, Take-Over Operations

Every year, the South African vessel, the SA Agulhas II, embarks on a journey to Antarctica, marking the beginning of its annual research and supply voyage. This critical mission is not only a symbol of South Africa’s dedication to scientific research but also a lifeline for the overwintering team, personnel rotations, and vital logistical support for stations on the frozen continent. On the 15th of December, the SA Agulhas II departed from Cape Town, South Africa, bound for Antarctica. This voyage marks the commencement of a multifaceted operation, which encompasses research, supply deliveries, and personnel exchanges between Antarctica and the rest of the world. Left: Shiraan Watson DCO of DFFE 
The SA Agulhas II plays a pivotal role in supporting research and exploration in one of the most extreme and least understood environments on Earth. South Africa’s station in Antarctica, SANAE IV Station, rely on the vessel’s annual voyages for everything from scientific supplies to food, equipment, and fuel. The vessel also delivers critical scientific personnel, scientists, and engineers who are essential for conducting experiments, research, and environmental monitoring on the frozen continent.
This year, the SA Agulhas II will carry a group of researchers to continue studies on climate change, marine biology, and glaciology, among other fields. Another essential aspect of this annual journey is the personnel exchange that occurs as part of the overwintering team rotation. The team that has spent the harsh winter months at the research stations in Antarctica will return home, while a new team will take their place for the upcoming year.
Above: SANAE64 Overwintering Team with DFFE Takeover Personnel.

The overwintering teams are a group of exceptional individuals who endure the Antarctic winter—a period marked by freezing temperatures, months of darkness, and isolation. They are responsible for maintaining research stations, conducting experiments, and ensuring that the infrastructure is operational during the harshest months. The rotation ensures that the same team does not endure multiple seasons of isolation and provides an opportunity for fresh perspectives and new expertise.
The SA Agulhas II is not just a research vessel—it’s a symbol of South Africa’s commitment to the exploration of one of the most remote places on Earth. The vessel’s crew is tasked with navigating the seas and icy waters that surround Antarctica, with the ship braving some of the world’s roughest weather and icy waters. The crew ensures the vessel stays operational throughout the voyage, providing safety and support to everyone on board. This year, as always, the vessel crew will work tirelessly to ensure that all operations go smoothly. They will transport cargo, assist scientists with their research, and ensure the safe arrival and departure of personnel.
We wish the SA Agulhas II, its crew, the overwintering team, and all personnel embarking on this important voyage a safe and successful journey to the frozen south.