Deep Ocean Exploration Initiative Deploys Mariner XL Remotely Operated Vehicle for Advance Deep-Water Expeditions at UN Ocean Conference
Blue Horizons: The Mariner XL, a Game-Changer in Deep-Sea Technology
With the world's spotlight on Nice for the upcoming 3rd United Nations Ocean Conference (UNOC-3), focus has shifted towards tangible, scalable solutions for marine ecosystem preservation and sustainable ocean resource use.
Enter: The Mariner XL, Deep Ocean Search's newest innovation - a revolutionary 6,000-meter-rated Remote Operated Vehicle (ROV). Born from the ingenious minds at Marine Operations London LTD, the Mariner XL redefines the boundaries of Work-Class ROV (WROV) capability at extreme depths.
Compact Power for Ultra-Deepwater Tasks
The Mariner XL is not just a powerhouse; it's a compact one, fitting into just four 20-foot containers. This makes rapid and simplified global mobilization a breeze, without requiring structural changes to support vessels.
Nicolas Vincent, Chief Operating Officer at Deep Ocean Search, shared his enthusiasm: "We're thrilled to unveil the Mariner XL, showcasing our dedication to technical excellence, teamwork, and global readiness."
Its all-electric propulsion, dedicated HPU for manipulators, and advanced inertial/acoustic positioning make it versatile for various sectors, from offshore oil & gas and marine renewables to scientific research, mineral sampling, and defense.
Engineered for Performance and Sustainability
The Mariner XL's lightweight, modular design lowers mobilization costs and reduces support vessel demands, minimizing the carbon footprint - an essential consideration as the maritime industry faces increasing environmental scrutiny.
Technical Highlights:- Dimensions: 2.86 x 1.70 x 1.70 m- Weight: 3,300 kg- Payload: 200 kg- Thrust: Up to 275 kg axial, 260 kg vertical- Speed: 3 knots axial, 1.5 knots vertical- HD camera, multiple manipulators, and high-spec INS/DVL navigation- Advanced bathymetric sensors, including the Valeport VA500
From surveying subsea infrastructure to conducting precision metrology and debris field investigations, the Mariner XL delivers. Its dynamic positioning capabilities and tooling flexibility make it suitable for both routine and specialized missions.
Built for Global Deployment
Set to grace the seas in summer 2025, the Mariner XL builds upon Deep Ocean Search’s two-decade legacy in deep-sea operations. The company's track record includes the development of the first full-depth side-scan sonar (11,000m) and the integration of geotechnical tools on autonomous vessels.
The Mariner XL debuts at UNOC-3, showcasing how advanced yet eco-conscious underwater technology can support SDG 14, the UN's sustainable development goal focused on life below water.
Key Applications- Deep-Sea Surveys and Mapping- Marine Environmental Monitoring and Research- Subsea Infrastructure Inspection- Search and Recovery Operations
Benefits in the Context of UNOC-3 and Sustainability- Supporting Ocean Science and Conservation- Enhancing Maritime Safety and Efficiency- Promoting Sustainable Practices- Enabling Data-Driven Decision Making
[1] Source: UNCTAD, “Advances in Unmanned and Autonomous Underwater Vehicles (AUVs/ROVs) for Deep-Sea Exploration and Environmental Monitoring,” 2023. Available at: https://unctad.org/en/pages/PublicationWebflyer.aspx?publicationid=2877
- The Mariner XL, with its advanced technology and lightweight, modular design, is not only a powerful Work-Class ROV, but also an eco-conscious innovation that strives for sustainability in the lab and in the deep sea, aligning with the goals of the United Nations Ocean Conference (UNOC-3) and promoting a more sustainable use of ocean resources.
- As part of the renewable energy sector, the Mariner XL's versatility extends to marine renewables, making it an invaluable tool for metrology and surveying subsea infrastructure, supporting the development and maintenance of sustainable underwater technology.
- With its all-electric propulsion, the Mariner XL not only contributes to the growth of renewable energy in the maritime industry, but by minimizing its carbon footprint and reducing support vessel demands, it also champions sustainability, a crucial aspect, especially as the industry faces increasing environmental scrutiny.
