Geotechnical Survey Vessel

A geotechnical survey vessel tests seabed soil to characterize foundations for offshore wind turbines, platforms, pipelines, and cables. It deploys a seabed drilling rig or downhole tools to take cores and run cone penetration tests (CPT), measuring shear strength, density, and stratigraphy through a moonpool or over the side. Dynamic positioning holds station over the borehole. Investigation and reporting follow ISO 19901-8 (marine soil investigations) and the related geotechnical practice in ISO 19901-10, distinguishing the work from hydrographic survey, which maps the water depth and seabed surface rather than its mechanical properties.