Outfitted with essential research equipment, including a acoustic fish tracking equipment, multi-parameter probe for water quality, cameras and imaging sonar system – the lab enables on-the-spot inspection of mussels and precise water quality assessments. Data from these instruments can be shared instantly with remote teams via secure digital connections, offering continuous oversight and enabling rapid responses to changing marine conditions.

A heavy-duty crane allows lifting of the  individual mussel-growing units for closer inspection. Cameras and sonar systems provide real-time imaging and continuous environmental monitoring, helping scientists track mussel health and growth with minimal disruption to the habitat. 

To further enhance operational insights, an ROV (Remotely Operated Vehicle) can be deployed directly from the moored platform. A crane and winch system manage the ROV’s safe launch and retrieval. The ROV is localized through an acoustic positioning system, ensuring precise navigation for underwater inspections, and feeding trials. Data gathered from the ROV—visual, acoustic, and sensor-based—feeds back into the wet lab, enabling a holistic overview of the ecosystem.

The research vessel will serve as a key operational asset for this pilot site. Its design, featuring dual-position control (interior and exterior), a protected cabin, and specialized equipment, enables safe and efficient sea operations. The vessel will be used for routine monitoring of the farm, deployment and maintenance of sensors and infrastructure, data collection, and transport of personnel and materials. Its additional onboard systems support reliable fieldwork and facilitate testing and validation of smart aquaculture technologies in real-world marine conditions.