Tamhae 3
The cutting-edge 3D/4D geophysical exploration research vessel fulfils the general demands of the seismic and oceanographic research industry for operating seismic streamer cables, seismic bottom nodes, high-resolution seafloor mapping, seafloor surveys, and sediment sampling.
Primary Specifications
IMO number: 9540106
Ship history
With the TAMHAE 3, the Korea Institute of Geoscience and Mineral Resources (KIGAM) is strengthening its geophysical research and exploration role.
The Ministry of Trade, Industry, and Energy and KIGAM have been working together since 2016 to replace the country’s outdated geophysical exploration research vessel, “TAMHAE 2,” with this new and improved 3D/4D geophysical exploration research vessel.
HJ Shipbuilding & Construction (HJSC) won the project in 2021 and built the vessel at their Yeongdo Shipyard.
The TAMHAE 3 is South Korea’s first multi-purpose geophysical exploration vessel with advanced 3D and 4D research equipment. It can conduct geophysical explorations in oceans, polar regions, and continental shelves, such as marine energy resource analysis and fault examinations.
The new vessel can deploy up to 8 seismic streamers, each up to 6 kilometres long. It also has seabed seismic exploration and high-resolution 4D monitoring capabilities. It can accommodate 50 crew members and travel up to 36,000 kilometres at 15 knots (28 kilometres per hour), enabling coverage of both Poles.
The TAMHAE 3 can cover all sea areas around the world. It is a state-of-the-art geophysical exploration research vessel that can enhance Korean seabed seismic exploration. The vessel has an ice-class hull for polar navigation, a dynamic positioning system, noise control mechanisms, and an auto-navigation system.
Naming ceremony: On July 6, 2023, Kim Yoon-mi, a senior researcher from KIGAM, named the vessel “TAMHAE 3”.
2025: Awarded 'Best Large Research Vessel 2024' by Baird Maritime/Work Boat World.