R/V FAY SLOVER
Length Overall .......... 55' - 0"
Beam ......................... 17' - 7"
Draft ............................ 5' - 0"
The research vessel FAY SLOVER is an enlarged and improved version of a highly successful
Gulf Challenger operated
by the University of New Hampshire for the past eight years. The distinctive feature of these vessels is the high
horsepower which permits samples to be gathered over a wide area in similar conditions of tide and weather. Twin
seven hundred power diesels power the new vessel at speeds over 20 knots. This affords researchers maximum time
on station and increase their availability for shoreside commitments.
The hull form was developed specifically for the scientific mission and provides low speed motion comfort, fuel
economy, and maneuverability usually lacking in craft designed to operate at higher speeds. Non-research functions
such as rescue boat and liferaft storage are segregated on the vessel's foredeck which is served by two davits
mounted on the forward pilot house corners. The centrally located pilothouse is arranged to provide visibility
in all directions and is raised to put sightlines above the heads of people working on the after deck. Laboratory
and accommodations areas are located below the raised foredeck. Bunks for six persons are installed.
The after deck is served by an 8000 pound capacity A-frame and screw hold-downs are installed on a standard pattern
for securing scientific equipment. Two thousand gallons of fuel provide a range of 580 miles.