On 9 July, Freire Shipyard launched the Anita Conti, a new research vessel built for the French oceanographic fleet operated by IFREMER. Named in honour of France’s first woman oceanographer, the vessel recognises her pioneering legacy in marine science. Replacing the Thalia, the Anita Conti will officially join the fleet in 2026 and is designed to support a wide range of scientific missions with enhanced capabilities and environmental performance.

With advanced equipment, hybrid propulsion, and energy-efficient systems, the vessel reflects a new generation of sustainable oceanographic research. Representatives from IFREMER and Freire Shipyard celebrated the launch as a major step forward for marine science, reinforcing France’s commitment to innovation and excellence in ocean research.

Read the press release here.

Picture Credit: Franck Betermin.