Hespérides is classified by Lloyd's Register of Shipping with ice class 1C. She can move through up to 0.5 metres (1 ft 8 in) of ice at 5 knots (9.3 km/h; 5.8 mph). Her propulsion system uses a computer-controlled variable-pitch propeller and stern and bow thrusters. The vessel carries one helicopter.[1][2]
Name
Buque de Investigación Oceanográfica Hespérides, 'Oceanographic Research Vessel Hesperides', is named after Hesperides, the Greek nymphs of the evening, located on the Western Mediterranean.
History
In 2003–2004, she was the subject of a thorough renovation, the hull was strengthened even more to break ice, all systems were improved and the habitability of the ship. The vessel is equipped with eleven laboratories, spread over 345 m2 and located on the main deck and below.
In 2009, the vessel participated in a high-profile rescue of Ocean Nova, a vessel with 106 people in the Antarctic[3] and, in 2010, in the Malaspina Expedition.