Fridtjof Nansen (1861-1930) is most famous for his crossing of Greenland and the "Fram" expedition, but he was also oceanographer and his doctoral thesis was in zoology. He was also one of the founders of ICES (the International Council for the Exploration of the Sea).

"G.M. Dannevig" was originally named "Kystfangst" and owned by "Fiskeriteknologisk Forskningsinstitutt" (Institute of Fisheriy Technology Research).

"G.O. Sars" represents a new generation of marine research vessels. With its vibration- and noise-damped diesel generators and its propellers driven by direct current motors, "G.O. Sars" is an extremely quiet vessel under way. It emits 99 percent less noise under water than conventional research vessels.

"Håkon Mosby" is owned and managed by the Institute of Marine Research (IMR). It is used for both scientific programmes and education of students in marine biology, oceanography and geology.

Johan Hjort" is named after the first IMR director and one of the founders of ICES (International Council for the Exploration of the Sea), Johan Hjort (1869 -1948).