History, design criteria and construction of a high powered intermediate-sized oceanographic ship

An intermediate, high-seas research vessel design conceived at Woods Hole after extensive experience with the design and operation of oceanographic ships concentrated upon determining and meeting basic requirements and objectives for this type of vessel rather than emphasizing details of equipage, outfit and scientific equipment. The resulting design has attempted to provide a sound foundation in the form of a good hull design properly arranged to provide manned and operating spaces in the areas of least motion and a reduction of complication of basic equipment and operating procedures. As a result many aspects of equipage and outfit will still remain open and flexible at time of delivery making the design more adaptable to various oceanographic tasks. The construction of three ships has been funded by the National Science Foundation from this design.