THE Bermuda Institute of Ocean Sciences' (BIOS) research vessel, the Bank of Bermuda Atlantic Explorer, was welcomed home this week.Scientists, crew and invited guests were on hand as the vessel made her way through Ferry Reach, to dock alongside the non-profit research institute, formerly known as the Bermuda Biological Station for Research.

The 168-foot vessel was christened and put to work earlier this year.

"It's an extraordinary day for BIOS," said the institute's president and director, Tony Knap.

"A world-class ship and a new docking facility allow us to enter a new era in ocean science research. We thank all who helped to make this a reality."

Ironically, an agreement was signed only this week for the purchase of the Weatherbird II, the research vessel which preceded the Bank of Bermuda Atlantic Explorer. The asking price for the Weatherbird II was $1.5 million.

An American firm Planktos Inc., a wholly-owned subsidiary of Solar Energy Ltd., will purchase the retired vessel for a unique project.

According to a press release issued by the company: "The management of Planktos has entered into an agreement with (BIOS) to purchase their research vessel RV Weatherbird II.

"It will be undertaking the first commercial iron fertilisation of the ocean project as soon as the vessel is outfitted.

"Further details on this programme will be disclosed shortly.

"Diatom (the company which owns Planktos) has advanced $100,000 as a good faith deposit, required for the purchase of RV Weatherbird II. It is intended that the vessel be renamed RV Planktos I."

According to the BIOS, the addition of the Bank of Bermuda Atlantic Explorer has enabled the research facility to "greatly expand oceanographic research and educational opportunities".

Said a spokesperson: "Replacing the RV Weatherbird II with the new ship has allowed for greatly improved seaworthiness and our ability to conduct scientific operations in higher sea-state conditions in the winter months and, it is significantly more comfortable on longer journeys.

"Expanded deck space allows the ability to carry larger and more delicate equipment and instruments.

"It also holds the necessary space for semi-permanent equipment installations to support our time-series research."