A Legend Restored
The SS Explorer – Leith, Edinburgh was Scotland’s first purpose-built Fisheries Research Vessel and in addition to studying Fish stocks, fishing practices and equipment, continued areas of maritime research pioneered by HMS Challenger. This research played a crucial role in the development of our fishing industry technology and our understanding of the seas and their ecosystems. Explorer is also a survivor, having survived the shipbreakers on two occasions and a collision on a dark night in the Cromarty Firth.
SS Explorer was commissioned by the Scottish Home Department in 1945 to operate for the Marine Laboratory in Aberdeen. Built by Alexander Hall and Co in Aberdeen and launched on the 21st June 1955, Explorer was Scotland’s leading scientific research vessel in service for the Marine Lab for 28 years.
Our Vision for the Future
SS Explorer will be fully restored; moored at a publicly accessible berth in the port of Leith together with a shoreside interpretation centre serving the local and wider community as a maritime museum and marine science educational resource, a visitor attraction and an attractive venue contributing to the economic regeneration of Leith and North Edinburgh.
Support for the future SS Explorer
Drydocking Explorer
Explorer has not been dry docked for long time. The scope for dry docking is currently under development, with plans to secure funding in 2025 and 2026.
Maintainence
Every day a new piece requires cleaned, fixed or secured. The dedication of our volunteers stands testament to their desire to keep the Explorer in working order. But we need more hands on deck to preserve the past for our future.
Visitor Centre
We want to turn the Explorer into an interactive learning space where we can share it’s scientific contribution and encourage STEM learning for future Marine Biologists or Engineers.
