140 Foot Shoal Draft Research Vessel

For Florida Institute of Oceanography

This unique vessel is intended primarily for conducting multidisciplinary studies in inshore waters but will be capable of offshore work as well. It would be able to transport large amounts of equipment and investigators throughout the Caribbean basin and conduct river, estuary, and coral reef studies on a scale that have not been possible before. Water jet thrusters at the bow and stern will each be directable through 360 degrees allowing the vessel to move in any direction, including sideways, and maintain precise positioning. The thrusters will also provide propulsion with no exposed rotating machinery to endanger marine mammals, divers, ROV tethers, or ecologically sensitive bottom habitats. Diesel electric propulsion will permit immediate switching between screw and thrusters so that all docking, station keeping, and close quarters maneuvering may be performed with thrusters alone. The main propellers will be used only when their higher power and efficiency are required for cruise.

The propulsion engines and generators are located in the forward end of the vessel with exhaust pipes led through a narrow forward stack. This arrangement reserves the most comfortable parts of the vessel for labs and accommodations and keeps the noise and exhaust fumes as far from the working areas as possible. Ironically, the forward stack contributes to excellent visibility since its narrow profile obscures a smaller arc of the horizon than one of the pilothouse window frames. The lack of a large uptake stack close to the pilothouse permits windows which provide full 360 degree visibility around the horizon. The pilot house floor is dual level so that the vessel operators may see aft over the heads of equipment operators and observers. Floor to ceiling windows on the aft side of the pilothouse will provide an exceptional view of the working areas from the main control station.

FIO has been unsuccessful in securing further funding for this project which is now on indefinite hold.

Preliminary Dimensions and Characteristics

Length Overall.................138' - 9"

Length on Main Deck......134' - 3"

Length on DWL...............130' - 0"

Beam (molded)................. 36' - 0"

Hull depth..........................13' - 0"

Draft at DWL..................... 9' - 0"

Full Load Draft................... 9' - 6"

Propulsion: Diesel Electric Twin 925 kW generators

Ship's Service: Twin 200 kW generators

Berths 30