Maritime Robotics has further strengthened its collaboration with Jan De Nul by delivering the Otter Uncrewed Surface Vessel (USV) to Dubai. Named Vaquita 04, the vessel is now operational in Jebel Ali, conducting hydrographic surveys for dredging and coastal development projects.
The launch of Vaquita 04 highlights the growing impact of advanced USV technology in marine surveying. “Innovation and collaboration are key to our partnership with Jan De Nul, and Vaquita 04 exemplifies how USVs are transforming surveying efficiency and accuracy,” said Sebastian Minfjord, Service Manager at Maritime Robotics.
Dubai, renowned for its ambitious infrastructure projects such as the Palm Jebel Ali, faces unique surveying challenges, particularly in the shallow waters between the “palm leaves.” Traditional methods are less effective in these areas, making the Otter Vaquita 04 a perfect solution. Customized for these conditions, Vaquita 04 is equipped with advanced technology, including a multibeam echosounder and a Sound Velocity Profiler (SVP) winch, to collect critical bathymetric data for dredging, land reclamation, beach profiling, and sand placement.
Nils Lowie, Senior Engineer at Jan De Nul, noted the benefits of using USVs for safer, more sustainable survey methods. “The Otter USVs allow us to reach areas that are too dangerous for conventional vessels, providing a greener approach to surveying while enhancing safety for our personnel.”
