RV ‘Simon Stevin’ can be used in the Belgian part of the North Sea and in the adjacent French, Dutch and English coastal waters (48°N - 56°N). The Scheldt estuary is also part of the work area of the ‘Simon Stevin’.
The VLIZ has a total of 1470 sailing hours or 190 sailing days at its disposal every year. The ‘Simon Stevin’ in principle undertakes journeys during the day between 8h00 and 17h00. Longer trips are possible. The sailing schedule is drawn up on a three-monthly basis so that we can quickly meet the needs of scientists.
Shipping time is requested by contacting Andre Cattrijsse or by completing the following form.
The schedule can be consulted here. Vacant days can be requested for afterwards.
If work is only carried out in Belgian waters:
Present the planning at least a week in advance to Andre Cattrijsse by e-mail or send it by fax to number +32 (0)59 34 21 31. The following information should be provided:
- the stations to be sampled (coordinates)
- detailed time schedule of the works to be carried out and the sailing times*
- the number of persons to be taken on board (and their coordinates) - up to 20 passengers for day trips, limited to ten scientists for overnight trips
- the meals to be provided
* The coordinator and the captain reserve the right to propose changes that may result in more efficient use of the shipping time in consultation with the scientist.
If work is also carried out in foreign waters (including the Westerschelde!):
In case of trips to foreign waters a diplomatic clearance (DIPCLEAR) has to be applied for through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. This clearance is to be provided to the competent administration. For Dutch coastal waters this administrative approval lasts at least three months, for French coastal waters four months, and for Brittisch coastal waters six months. For this reason the VLIZ also provides for a tentative one-year programme that enables the researchers and the VLIZ to prepare such campaigns.
