Live more
Vessels & Stations.
S.A. Agulhas II
S.A. Agulhas II is a South African ice breaking polar supply and research ship owned by the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment (DFFE).
SANAE IV
The first South African National Antarctic Expedition (SANAE) departed in 1959.
Marion Island
The Marion base is used mainly for environmental/biological research, and weather data collection.
Gough Island
South Africa has been operating a weather station on Gough Island since 1956.
SANAE IV
SANAE IVExplore more
Expeditions &
Operations.
Voyages to Antarctica, Marion Island and Gough Island take place annually to replenish supplies and exchange personnel.
Team Structure.
Supplies.
The Voyage.
Living at the Station.
Learn more
Discover.
The South African National Antarctic Programme (SANAP) consists of three stations, countless research projects, and a history of dedicated team members.
Team Photos.
Research.
Newsletters.
Legacy.
What’s happening
Latest News.
Introducing Marion 82 Overwintering Team
Meet the overwintering team members of Marion 82
International Day of the Celebration of the Solstice
On 21 June, SANAP join the global community in celebrating the International Day of the Celebration of the Solstice
SEAmester VIII – South Africa’s “Class Afloat”
SEAmester VIII journey—where science meets the sea, and the classroom knows no bounds.
Celebrating World Albatross Day – Protecting Giants of the Southern Ocean
19 June 2025 marks World Albatross Day, a global celebration of these magnificent seabirds whose wide wingspans and far-ranging flight paths have long captured the imagination of sailors, scientists, and nature lovers alike. We celebrate the tireless work of scientists, conservationists, and partners who are helping to give these majestic ocean wanderers a fighting chance. Let’s continue to raise awareness and support efforts to keep the skies above the Southern Ocean filled with soaring wings.
Introducing Marion 82 Overwintering Team
Meet the overwintering team members of Marion 82
International Day of the Celebration of the Solstice
On 21 June, SANAP join the global community in celebrating the International Day of the Celebration of the Solstice
SEAmester VIII – South Africa’s “Class Afloat”
SEAmester VIII journey—where science meets the sea, and the classroom knows no bounds.
Celebrating World Albatross Day – Protecting Giants of the Southern Ocean
19 June 2025 marks World Albatross Day, a global celebration of these magnificent seabirds whose wide wingspans and far-ranging flight paths have long captured the imagination of sailors, scientists, and nature lovers alike. We celebrate the tireless work of scientists, conservationists, and partners who are helping to give these majestic ocean wanderers a fighting chance. Let’s continue to raise awareness and support efforts to keep the skies above the Southern Ocean filled with soaring wings.
Experience more
Galleries.
SANAE IV.
Gough Island.
Marion Island.
S.A. Agulhas II.
South African icebreaking polar supply and research ship.
