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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.
World Penguin Day 2026 – Celebrating SANAP Research & Conservation
As we mark World Penguin Day on 25 April 2026, the South African National Antarctic Programme continues to play a vital role in advancing our understanding of penguin species...
Earth Day 22 April – Our Power, Our Planet
Earth Day is commemorated annually on 22 April and is one of the largest global environmental movements. In 2026, the theme “Our Power, Our Planet” highlights the importance of...
World Meteorological Day 2026: Observing the Skies from Earth’s Southern Frontiers
Each year on 23 March, World Meteorological Day marks the establishment of the World Meteorological Organization in 1950 and celebrates the vital role of meteorology in...
World Water Day 2026: Southern Ocean Science for a Water-Secure Future
Each year on World Water Day (22 March), the global community reflects on the importance of freshwater and the urgent need to protect it. In 2026, the theme “Water and Gender:...
World Penguin Day 2026 – Celebrating SANAP Research & Conservation
As we mark World Penguin Day on 25 April 2026, the South African National Antarctic Programme continues to play a vital role in advancing our understanding of penguin species across the Southern Ocean. Through long-term research led by dedicated scientists and field...
Earth Day 22 April – Our Power, Our Planet
Earth Day is commemorated annually on 22 April and is one of the largest global environmental movements. In 2026, the theme “Our Power, Our Planet” highlights the importance of civic action, community engagement, and collective responsibility in addressing...
World Meteorological Day 2026: Observing the Skies from Earth’s Southern Frontiers
Each year on 23 March, World Meteorological Day marks the establishment of the World Meteorological Organization in 1950 and celebrates the vital role of meteorology in safeguarding lives and livelihoods. For South Africa, this global effort is strengthened by the...
World Water Day 2026: Southern Ocean Science for a Water-Secure Future
Each year on World Water Day (22 March), the global community reflects on the importance of freshwater and the urgent need to protect it. In 2026, the theme “Water and Gender: Where water flows, equality grows” reminds us that access to clean water is not only an...
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Galleries.
SANAE IV.
Gough Island.
Marion Island.
S.A. Agulhas II.
South African icebreaking polar supply and research ship.
