The new addition of the Royal Navy, the Hydrograph/Hydrograaf has arrived in Curaçao for carrying out warm weather tests and hydrographic surveys.
Since joining the Navy last year, the Hydrograph quickly built a reputation as a state-of-the-art vessel with advanced hydrographic, navigation and communications systems. This allows the vessel to accurately map waters, harbors and shipping channels. This capability plays an essential role in safely navigating maritime routes and maintaining safety of the Caribbean waters. During the stay in the region of Curaçao and Aruba, the Hydrograph will be carrying out extensive tests and collect hydrographic data. This contributes to a better understanding of the seabed and tidal currents in this region.
Commander of the Hydrograph, lieutenant, Leon Hartenberg, emphasizes: ““Due to its limited draft, the Hydrograaf is ideally suited for collecting data in shallow waters. This data is used to update existing nautical charts and other nautical publications and keep them up to date. Herewith Defense contributes with the safe navigation on the maritime access routes.
A good knowledge of the maritime environment is essential to support the various tasks of the Kingdom in the Caribbean Region.’’
The “Hydrograph” after the tests will return to the Netherlands.
