
The Oceanographic Research Vessel BIO Hespérides and the Oceanographic Vessel BO Sarmiento de Gamboa are Spain's two infrastructures for the development of scientific projects in polar regions.
Since its launch in 1991, the BIO Hespérides has participated in over twenty Spanish Antarctic campaigns, and in 2007, it completed a campaign in the Arctic. The vessel is operated by the Spanish Navy, with the Marine Technology Unit of the Spanish National Research Council (CSIC) being responsible for the maintenance and operation of the scientific equipment on board. It is based in Cartagena.
The BO Sarmiento de Gamboa, launched in 2006, has participated in several Spanish Antarctic campaigns. Following the entry into force of the IMO Polar Code on 1 January 2017, the vessel obtained certification for navigation in polar waters north of 63º S during the austral summer and in ice-free waters. The vessel is based in Vigo. It is operated by the Marine Technology Unit of the Spanish National Research Council (CSIC).