The team at Signs Express Southampton have worked closely with the National Oceanography Centre (NOC), the UK’s centre of excellence for oceanographic sciences based in Southampton, on numerous project over the years. So, when they were offered the chance to get involved with the branding of the NOC’s Autosub Long Range, Boaty McBoatface, the team jumped at the chance. Mark Kendall, co-owner of Signs Express Southampton stated, “We have loved working with the NOC over the years, as they bring us some really interesting projects and to be involved with a cause as worthy as theirs is truly excellent. We don’t just specialise in applying graphics to sea-worthy vessels however, we have provided them with all sort over the years from banners to illuminated signs and this project was just the icing on the cake.” Boaty McBoatface is joining ocean scientists from the University of Southampton and British Antarctic Survey (BAS) on an expedition to study some of the deepest and coldest abyssal ocean waters on earth and how they affect climate change. Considering the sub’s epic journey, the graphics that were applied had to be of the highest marine grade vinyl that would withstand the icy temperatures and prolonged periods of time submersed at great depths and under great pressures. This was no barrier for Signs Express Southampton who, over the years, have applied graphics to several submersible crafts. Boaty McBoatface has been given the name following last year’s campaign by the Natural Environment Research Council to name the UK’s new polar research ship, which has been named after famous broadcaster and naturalist, Sir David Attenborough despite popular vote. In a compromise, the Council has dubbed this groundbreaking vessel and several others like it Boaty McBoatface. The mission will begin by traveling to the Southern Ocean aboard the BAS research ship RRS James Clark Ross on Friday 17th March from Punta Arenas, Chile. Photo courtesy of National Oceanography Centre.