A new concept in design for a vessel to conduct marine research within the coastal zone

The University of Delaware, College of Marine Studies, in conjunction with J. W. Gilbert Associates, Inc., has designed a unique vessel for coastal zone oceanographic research work. The vessel is now under construction in Morgan City, Louisiana. Unique features of the vessel include its relatively high cruising speed, automated galley, modular laboratory furnishings and use of portable laboratory vans. Length overall of the vessel is 120 ft (36.58 m), its beam is 23 ft 2 in (7.07 m) and its draft midships is 4 ft 4 in (1.32 m). A crew of 6 will man the vessel, which can berth an additional 12 scientists. A cruising speed of about 18 knots is obtained by utilizing all aluminum construction and a semi-displacement crewboat hull. Low speed maneuvering and stationkeeping ability are maintained by use of twin rudders and twin controllable pitch propellers.