This Is What The ‘Boaty McBoatface’ Ship Will Actually Be Called

The polar research ship that was subject to a hijacked online poll has finally been named – but Boaty McBoatface is not dead in the water after all.

The outrageous name overwhelmingly won a poll run by the Natural Environment Research Council (NERC) – but organisers spoiled the fun by refusing to listen to public opinion.

Now, however, a compromise has been struck.

The £200m ship, which will explore the polar regions, will bear the name of the Sir David Attenborough, the supremely popular broadcaster and environmentalist.

But, in a victory for daftness everywhere, one of the ship’s high-tech, remotely operated subs will be called Boaty McBoatface.

All hail Boaty McBoatface (NERCscience)

Attenborough, who turns 90 this Sunday, said he was “honoured” to lend his name to the ship.

“I am truly honoured by this naming decision and hope that everyone who suggested a name will feel just as inspired to follow the ship’s progress as it explores our polar regions,” he said.

“I have been privileged to explore the world’s deepest oceans alongside amazing teams of researchers, and with this new polar research ship they will be able to go further and discover more than ever before.”

The Science Minister Jo Johnson, who confirmed the news, said the government would build on the interest generated by the viral naming poll.

How the ship will look (NERCscience)

He said it will invest up to £1 million in a new Polar Explorer Programme to engage young people.

(Credit: NERCscience)