During RV Tan Kah Kee’s (RV TKK) port call in Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia, the vessel joined OceanXplorer (OceanX) for a reciprocal ship visit and exchange. The event brought together crew members, researchers, and students to share insights on ocean exploration and marine science.

Faculty, crew representatives, and students participating in Leg I of the “XMU at Sea” Undergraduate Training Cruise (XMU@SEA) visited OceanX, guided by Andrew Craig, the Expedition Coordinator & ROV Program Lead. The delegation toured the vessel’s Mission Control, research laboratories, submersible facilities, helicopter deck, and bridge, gaining a firsthand look at its integrated approach to ocean research and storytelling.

OceanX uniquely merges deep-sea exploration, marine science, and media production. Its dual Triton submersibles, Nadir and Neptune, reach depths of 1,000 meters, while its ROV system extends capabilities down to 6,000 meters. Outfitted with advanced mapping and acoustic systems, onboard labs, aerial assets, and full media infrastructure, the vessel seamlessly combines scientific sampling with immersive public outreach.

At the bridge, Second Officer Isobel Backhouse delivered an energetic overview of the vessel’s navigational and operational systems. The visit showcased how OceanX’s specialized layout, specialized equipment, and lighting design support both rigorous scientific missions and high-end documentary filmmaking.

In return, the OceanX team boarded RV TKK. Faculty and students from presented XMU@SEA RV TKK’s laboratories, bridge, and scientific suite. Discussions focused on vessel operations, marine equipment, and ocean literacy initiatives.

This joint meeting offered a meaningful platform for international exchange, uniting early-career students and scientists in a shared mission to explore and protect the ocean.

Photos: Jiajun Huang, Kun Chen 

Revised by MarOps