Pourquoipas Vessel Reviews and Specifications

On February 7, 2019, the research vessel 'Pourquis Pas' embarked from Seyne-sur-Mer to initiate a groundbreaking search operation aimed at locating the lost submarine 'Minerve.' Tragically, the 'Minerve' vanished along with its 52 crew members on January 27, 1968, approximately 20 kilometers south of Cap Sicié, close to Toulon. It is believed that the wreck lies at a depth of 2,250 meters beneath the sea's surface. The French Navy publicly unveiled this search initiative on February 13, 2019, shortly after presenting the plans to the families of the lost crew on February 11. Historical efforts in 1970, involving the calculations from the geophysical detection laboratory led by Professor Yves André Rocard, identified three potential locations for the submarine's resting place. Consequently, 2019 has been designated as a pivotal year to explore a target area of 283 square kilometers, situated 20 kilometers offshore from Cap Sicié, characterized by flat seabed conditions comprising mud and sand. The coordinates pinpointing the 'Minerve' are 42º 52 N, 05º 47 E. The search operations will leverage advanced technology from Ifremer and the Hydrographic Service of the Navy. The initial phase includes a thorough survey of the seabed, followed by a more extensive operation in July utilizing an underwater drone with capabilities to dive up to 2,850 meters and cover one square kilometer per hour, boasting a resolution of approximately one meter. Additionally, another remotely operated vehicle (ROV) will analyze sediment layers up to 70 meters deep should any insights suggest a wreck could be entrenched within the sediments. The information collected will feed into a third and final phase of this extensive research campaign, scheduled between November 18 and December 18, 2019. During this crucial phase, Ifremer’s submarine 'Nautile' will investigate sites that generate the most promising sonar echoes, aiming to capture images and conclusively identify the lost submarine. The estimated budget for this comprehensive operation is set at five million euros.

Contrary to common misconceptions, the POURQUOIPAS (IMO 9285548) is not a dredger; it serves as a specialized oceanographic survey and research vessel. Owned by IFREMER, holding a 55% stake, and the French Navy, with 45%, this remarkable ship was constructed in 2004 by the esteemed shipbuilding company, Les Chantiers de l'Atlantique. The POURQUOIPAS plays a vital role in advancing marine research and understanding oceanic ecosystems.