ECIM inaugurates the "Ilán":
research vessel for work in near-shore environments
The dream of researchers at the Coastal Station of Marine Investigations (ECIM) to have a near-shore research vessel was made a reality by the inauguration of "Ilán". The fiberglass craft will allow students and teachers to undertake scientific investigation in coastal oceanography and ecology as well as to train undergraduate and graduate students in skills of marine exploration.
The craft, with a length and breadth of 8.37m and 2.30 m, respectively, is equipped with a 150 HP out-board engine that allows a maximum speed of 50 km per hour. The vessel also includes a small sleeping cabin to facilitate day and night samplings, a large stern deck to be able to manipulate oceanographic instrument, sampling nets, an arm and winch, and a diving platform. The new craft also allows that small groups of 4 or 5 students to take part in these activities alongside investigators.
