Australia’s $528m Antarctic icebreaker wider than initially designed as bridge impasse labelled ‘farcical’

Tasmania's harbour master says RSV Nuyina's dimensions significantly changed from original design and windage area' now too large

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Australia's $528m icebreaking research vessel is significantly wider than initially designed and lacks the turning ability to safely pass underneath Hobart's Tasman Bridge and refuel on the other side.

On Thursday, Guardian Australia revealed the RSV Nuyina had been denied permission to pass underneath the bridge due to safety concerns. The 160m long ship must now sail hundreds of kilometres to refuel at a port on the side of the state, costing the cash-strapped division more money and generating more emissions.