RV Tom Crean, Ireland’s newest marine research vessel named after the Kerry explorer will be officially commissioned in Dingle next month, reports RadioKerry.

At almost 53-metres RV Tom Crean will be used (by the Marine Institute) for ocean surveys, fishery, acoustic and environmental research and buoy and mooring operations.

The €25 million newbuild recently docked in Galway Harbour, Afloat adds the homeport of the Spanish shipyard built ship which today is in the Celtic Sea having previously departed Cork Harbour.

Tom Crean's grand-daughter Aileen Crean-O'Brien will perform the commissioning ceremony in Dingle on October 6th.

She says it’s a proud moment for the family.

To listen, click here for an audio clip link.