Spain’s Largest Research Vessel ‘Odón de Buen’ Makes Technical Stop in Tenerife
The Odón de Buen, Spain’s most advanced oceanographic research vessel, recently docked in Santa Cruz de Tenerife as part of its mission to bolster the nation's global marine research capabilities.
The Odón de Buen, the largest research vessel in the Spanish state fleet, recently made a technical stop at the port of Santa Cruz de Tenerife. Managed by the Spanish National Research Council (CSIC), the ship represents a major upgrade for Spain’s oceanographic capabilities. The project, which cost 85 million euros and was largely funded by the Ministry of Science and ERDF grants, aims to place Spain at the forefront of global marine research.
Built at the Armon shipyards in Vigo, the Odón de Buen is designed for versatility. Measuring 84.3 meters long and 18 meters wide, the ship uses a hybrid diesel-gas propulsion system to meet modern sustainability standards. Its robust design allows it to operate in harsh weather and polar regions, supporting a wide range of work, from underwater mapping and deep-sea research to climate change monitoring.
The vessel is highly advanced, featuring modular laboratories that allow a team of 39 researchers to analyze samples immediately on board. In total, the ship can accommodate 58 people. It is also equipped to deploy remote and autonomous underwater vehicles capable of reaching depths of up to 6,000 meters.
Named after Odón de Buen, the founder of the Spanish Institute of Oceanography, the ship is a tribute to a pioneer in the field. Following its stop in Tenerife, the vessel will continue its journey to Vigo. This visit highlights the strategic role of Canary Island ports as vital logistical hubs for marine science, supporting the regular research expeditions conducted by the CSIC.