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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.
Celebrating the International Day for Biological Diversity with SANAP – 22 May 2025
The United Nations has designated May 22 as the International Day for Biological Diversity (IDB), a day to reflect on the vital role biodiversity plays in sustaining life on...
Welcome back to Marion 81 Overwintering Team
MARION 81 Overwintering Team Front sitting (left to right) - Vanessa Stephen - FITZ Birder, Monique van Bers - MFM Mouser, Peter Cunningham- SAPRI Sealer, Tanganedzani Tshitavhe...
Celebrating Women in Maritime National Day 2025
An Ocean of Opportunities for Women - Celebrating Women in Maritime National Day 2025 As we mark Women in Maritime National Day 2025, we celebrate the increasing presence,...
Celebrating International Penguin Day
Every year on April 25th, we celebrate International Penguin Day—a global reminder of the unique role penguins plays in our planet's ecosystems. These birds are not just symbols...
Celebrating the International Day for Biological Diversity with SANAP – 22 May 2025
The United Nations has designated May 22 as the International Day for Biological Diversity (IDB), a day to reflect on the vital role biodiversity plays in sustaining life on Earth. The 2025 theme, "Harmony with Nature and Sustainable Development," underscores the...
Welcome back to Marion 81 Overwintering Team
MARION 81 Overwintering Team Front sitting (left to right) - Vanessa Stephen - FITZ Birder, Monique van Bers - MFM Mouser, Peter Cunningham- SAPRI Sealer, Tanganedzani Tshitavhe - SAWS Assistant Meteorological Technician, Tokozile Mdleleni - DFFE Communications...
Celebrating Women in Maritime National Day 2025
An Ocean of Opportunities for Women - Celebrating Women in Maritime National Day 2025 As we mark Women in Maritime National Day 2025, we celebrate the increasing presence, leadership, and impact of women in South Africa’s polar and ocean research landscape—especially...
Celebrating International Penguin Day
Every year on April 25th, we celebrate International Penguin Day—a global reminder of the unique role penguins plays in our planet's ecosystems. These birds are not just symbols of the icy South—they are indicators of ocean health and climate change. From the...
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Galleries.
SANAE IV.
Gough Island.
Marion Island.
S.A. Agulhas II.
South African icebreaking polar supply and research ship.
Do more
Events.
National
International Day for the Preservation of the Ozone Layer
International Day for the Preservation of the Ozone Layer
International
See more
Videos.
Visit the Antarctic Legacy of South Africa’s YouTube channel for videos and insights from their work in the Antarctic region.
