(From CAS Website) China's first large-scale small water plane area twin hull (SWATH) vessel "Shiyan-1" set sail in Sanya, Hainan province on May 9, 2009.

The new vessel "Shiyan-1" is China's first large-scale SWATH with more than 2,000-ton displacement. The 60 meter-long and 26 meter-wide vessel is equipped with an AC frequency-conversion drive system and a dynamic positioning system. It is known for its outstanding features of vibration and noise reduction, and automation. Shiyan-1 could be used to carry out comprehensive and multi-disciplinary marine investigations in hydro-acoustics, marine physics, geo-biology, marine and geological environment, due to its outstanding properties such as seaworthiness and quietness, noted experts.

The all-welded steel structure "Shiyan-1" could cruise in all types of water except ice zones. With spacious lab and deck, it is an excellent platform for scientific expedition.

The ship was designed by the No. 702 Institute under the China Heavy-duty Ship-Building Incorporation, under the supervision of three CAS institutes including namely Institute of Acoustics, the South China Sea Institute of Oceanology, and Institute of Automation.