The seismic research vessel delivered in June 1999 for Aker Geo has been designed as a geophysical survey vessel for unrestricted service. The vessel is purpose built for demanding seismic survey, with accommodations forward, engine room amidship, diesel electric propulsion system and seismic areas and helideck in the aft part.

The seismic areas are equipped with hydraulically powered winches and auxiliary equipment, a control room and a workshop. The survey capacity is enhanced by a stern arrangement for operating the streamer cables.

Overall length of Aker Amadeus is 84.00 metres, breadth is 18.50 metres and draught is 6.1 metres.

The modern and innovative research vessel is specifically designed for the purposes of Namibian fisheries research. The vessel meets the latest standards set for this type of vessels requiring particularly special care in the design of laboratory equipment, propulsion and power generation system. The vessel has also very high overall technical standards and special attention has been given to the vessel's serviceability and low maintenance costs.

Furthermore, the ship features a dynamic positioning system and it is operational in any African sea and weather condition in all seasons with no restrictions. This versatile specialized vessel will be approximately 62 meters long and will provide accommodation for 44 crew members and research personnel.

The tasks of the research vessel include monitoring of fish stock, as well as collecting and analyzing biological and oceanographic samples. The multi-purpose specialized vessel will also be used for meteorological research and it will provide assistance for the control of fishing. The vessel will be equipped to sort, freeze and store fish for the scientific purposes as well.

S.A. Agulhas II is a multipurpose vessel that, among other tasks, operates as a supply, research and passenger vessel as well as an icebreaker.