The regional oceanographic ships managed by the ship unit of the Spanish Institute of Oceanography (IEO) of the CSIC are the B/O Ramon Margalef and B/O Anas Alvari o.

Both ships are equipped with the most modern electronic navigation and situation systems, as well as the necessary means to collect samples, both of water and sediments, to determine physical and chemical variables of sea water, as well as for studies of marine flora and fauna.

The B/O Ramón Margalef was delivered in 2011 and is specially designed for oceanographic and fisheries research, including the integrated study of ecosystems. Due to its size and capabilities, it is classified as a regional ship. It has 10 days of autonomy and space for 11 researchers and technicians, in addition to its 14 crew members. It develops its activity at the national level and adjacent seas and has cutting-edge technology to study marine geology, physical and chemical oceanography, marine biology, fisheries and environmental control.

The B/O Ángeles Alvariño was delivered in 2012. This ship provides the national and European oceanographic fleet with a floating laboratory equipped with the latest technologies. Also classified as a regional vessel, like the previous one both have the capacity to use the ROV LIROPUS; it has the capacity to accommodate 13 researchers and technicians, in addition to its 14 crew members. It also has a design that ensures low levels of radiated noise to the water, allowing it to work without altering the natural behavior of marine fauna. Its advanced technology allows to study marine geology, physical and chemical oceanography, marine biology, fisheries and environmental control.