The Launch
Making waves far beyond its shores
On the eastern edge of Newfoundland and Labrador lies the Town of Holyrood, a small coastal community known for its rugged shorelines, rich fishing history and strong ties to the ocean. Today, however, Holyrood is making waves as a hub of innovation, driving the future of ocean technology, research and training through The Launch.
A vision of the renowned Fisheries and Marine Institute of Memorial University, The Launch is a state-of-the-art marine living lab providing a safe and sheltered near-Arctic environment where students, researchers, faculty, and members of private industry can explore the next advancements within the ocean sector.
Complete with world-class experts and cutting-edge equipment and infrastructure, The Launch is a place for everyone to explore.
Seas of opportunity
Sitting in a unique location at the south end of the Labrador Current – The Launch boasts some of the coldest and most pristine waters on the planet. These qualities make the facility ideal for testing and training all year round, while also providing a comprehensive suite of resources such as workshops, technical training and meeting and lecture spaces.
Home to the Centre for Applied Ocean Technology, the Offshore Safety and Survival Centre, and the Offshore Safety and Survival Research Unit, The Launch hosts a wide array of specialized facilities including the Marine Autonomous Systems Testbed, Remote Operations Centre, Holyrood Subsea Observatory, and SmartAtlantic.
Most recently in March 2024, The Launch became a designated test center for NATO’s Defence Innovation Accelerator for the North Atlantic (DIANA), providing advanced infrastructure where companies and researchers can de-risk, demonstrate and validate dual-use technologies for both defence and civilian purposes.
This designation exemplifies the Marine Institute’s continued commitment to industry and academia and is a great example of the power of international collaboration while fostering innovative technologies and developing solutions for real-world problems.
Riding the waves together
Formerly known as the Holyrood Marine Base, The Launch has undergone several phases of growth and development since 2010, with the latest addition being the completion of the Arthur W. May Building in 2023. This building marks a significant milestone in the ongoing evolution of The Launch, and it’s a testament to the continued investment in both the facility and the community.
“ACOA has been a partner of the Fisheries and Marine Institute of Memorial University since the very beginning of our development in Holyrood. They share our vision to bring opportunities in the ocean sector to the community,” said Dr. Paul Brett, Vice-president pro tempore of the Marine Institute. “The team at ACOA has supported each phase of our development, and we eagerly anticipate their continued support as we expand the ocean of opportunities for both the Canadian and global economies.”
The Launch is more than just a physical space—it is a beacon of knowledge, collaboration, and innovation. Through partnerships with government, industry and community, The Launch is shaping the future of the ocean sector, creating new opportunities for exploration, and making waves far beyond the shores of Newfoundland and Labrador.
To learn more about The Launch, please visit: The Launch - Fisheries and Marine Institute of Memorial University of Newfoundland