Privately funded ocean research vessel launched in Taizhou

Hai Ying Jia Ke, China's first privately funded ocean-going research vessel, is launched in Taizhou. [Photo/WeChat account: tzfb001]

China's first privately funded ocean-going research vessel, Hai Ying Jia Ke, was launched on May 5 in Wenling, a county-level city in Taizhou, East China's Zhejiang province.

The project, which fills a gap in the privately led construction of advanced research ships in China, was initiated in 2024 by local entrepreneur Cai Yunjie, who identified a shortage of deep-sea research vessels. He coordinated with universities and research institutes before mobilizing 36 investors, mainly experienced maritime professionals, to raise an initial 130 million yuan ($19 million) in funding.

The vessel measures 82 meters in length with a displacement of 3,500 metric tons. It has a range of 10,000 nautical miles and can operate continuously for over 60 days, with capabilities for global navigation and operations in light ice conditions.

Advanced construction standards were applied, including the use of high-strength steel and precise digital modeling. The vessel also integrates operational experience from fishermen to improve stability and safety.

With a total investment of 150 million yuan, the ship is expected to begin sea trials in July after outfitting. It will operate under a leasing model, providing support for marine research, seabed mapping, and offshore engineering services.