The British Antarctic Survey (BAS) undertakes a balanced programme of scientific activities in Antarctica supported by five aircraft and two ships. The Royal Research Ship (RRS) James Clark Ross (JCR) was commissioned in 1991 and has a dual role undertaking scientific survey and the resupply of BAS Antarctic stations. During the ships first year of operation, problems developed with the main and auxiliary seawater pipe systems. Failure of seawater pumps also became a significant problem. A programme to investigate the failure mode and effect a solution was conducted. Investigations into the failure modes included an on-board study of possible galvanic action, the role of cavitation and turbulence, and chemical reaction. In-situ studies were complemented by laboratory tests and changes in installed materials. This paper reviews the problem and the process to eliminate failure of seawater systems.