oceanographic research vessel; ocean survey ship
A ship equipped for scientific investigation of the ocean, including physical, chemical, biological, and geological surveys.
The oceanographic research vessel collected deep-sea organisms.
調査船 is a general 'survey ship', while 海洋調査船 specifically refers to oceanographic research vessels.
Compound of 海洋 (ocean) + 調査 (investigation) + 船 (ship).