On October 31, 2025, the RSV Nuyina successfully arrived at the Davis Research Station, marking a significant milestone in its resupply mission. After navigating through challenging sea conditions for six days, the vessel reached the edge of the fast ice, demonstrating its impressive icebreaking capabilities. The ship sliced through ice up to 1.6 meters thick at a speed of approximately 9 knots, creating a stark contrast against the frozen landscape.
As the vessel approached Davis, it traversed what is known as “iceberg alley,” where towering icebergs flanked the ship, some smooth and others jagged, showcasing hues of pale blue and aqua. The ship was anchored about one kilometer from the research station, enabling crew members to disembark directly onto the ice. The sight of a large research vessel seemingly “landlocked” in ice is both remarkable and peculiar.
Commencing Resupply Operations
Upon arrival, the team initiated resupply operations, which are expected to last over a week. The cranes aboard the RSV Nuyina began transferring cargo from the ship’s hold to trucks for delivery to the research station. In total, the mission aims to unload approximately 500 tonnes of essential supplies, including 12,600 eggs, 500 kilograms of bacon, and 600 kilograms of cheese, along with 140,000 litres of water and around 800,000 litres of fuel.
While some crew members focus on resupplying Davis, others are engaged in various research projects. A team drilled a hole in the ice to deploy a remote underwater vehicle, allowing for the observation of marine life on the seafloor. Another group worked diligently to retrieve data on sea level rise from a tide gauge located near the station. Wildlife ecologists also traveled to nearby Gardener and Warriner Islands to monitor local penguin populations.
Community Engagement and Celebrations
Participation in resupply tasks is a collective effort, with many crew members assisting in different capacities. Some volunteered for ‘slushie’ duty, helping in the kitchen, while others helped unpack containers or managed the fuel transfer from the ship to the station. Notable contributions included the unloading of one tonne of meat and ten tonnes of flour in a single day.
To foster camaraderie during the busy resupply period, the crew marked Halloween early with a themed dress-up quiz, where a jellyfish costume took home the prize. Throughout the operations, curious Adelie penguins were spotted sliding on the ice, and a few elegant emperor penguins made appearances, seemingly unfazed by the human activity surrounding them.
The resupply mission not only ensures that the Davis Research Station is well-equipped for the year ahead but also underscores the importance of collaboration among the crew. As the operation continues, the team remains focused on their critical tasks, ensuring the station is stocked and ready for the challenges of the Antarctic environment.
