Launched in 2006, the RV MERIAN is a modern multi-disciplinary research vessel, even operational in near-polar regions. It can break through ice shields of up to 60 cm width and move among drifting ice floes. The ship is based in Rostock-Warnemuende. Main operation area is the North Atlantic Ocean, but also the entire Atlantic Ocean, the Mediterranean and the Black Sea. Being easily maneuverable, the MERIAN was built with a special propulsion system. Mounted below the hull are two propellers with the ability to turn a full 360°. They allow the ship to precisely maintain a fixed position at sea. This facilitates the deployment of remotely operated submersibles or special seafloor drilling devices. Two stabilizing systems guarantee a smooth passage for up to 23 researchers with a maximum stay at sea of 35 days.