All American launches Duke research vessel

Duke Unversity Marine Lab cat leaves AAM construction hall

The All American Marine, Inc. (AAM) shipyard in Bellingham, Wash., has completed construction and launched an aluminum research and survey vessel for Duke University.

AAM is the exclusive North American builder of hulls designed by New Zealand based Teknicraft Designs and the Duke research vessel is based on two previous Teknicrat Design vessels built by AAM for NASA. Teknicraft’s patented hydrofoil-assisted hull design is proven to have industry-leading low-wake wash energy and fuel economy.

The 77’ x 26.5’ Duke University Marine Lab (DUML) is powered by twin Tier 3 CAT C18 “D” ACERT engines, rated at 803 bhp/2,100 rpm. Driven by twin fixed pitch propellers, it has a cruising speed of 24 knots.

The vessel has live aboard accommodations for 14 persons, can accommodate up to 30 passengers and is constructed and certified under USCG Subchapter “T” regulations.

The vessel will allow marine scientists from DUML and other institutions to conduct research along the Atlantic seaboard in a wide range of fields including marine ecology and conservation, biological oceanography, and renewable energy ocean development.

The vessel was procured as part of an $11 million gift for the construction and operation of a new state-of-the-art research vessel that will expand teaching, research and outreach capabilities at the Marine Lab. The Marine Lab has been without a large research vessel since two of its boats were retired. The 135-foot Cape Hatteras retired in 2012 and the 50-foot Susan Hudson retired in 2014.

“All American Marine is proud to have been selected by Duke University to build this state-of-the-art education platform. The vessel is not only equipped with Teknicraft’s patented hydrofoil design, which provides both lift and fuel efficiency, it also has wet and dry labs, oceanographic equipment, a galley and sleeping quarters. It will be an ideal oceangoing classroom train undergraduate and graduate students in oceanography and marine biology at the Duke Marine Lab at Beaufort, N.C.”

All American Marine Business Development Manager, Ron Wille

In addition to the university’s programs, the vessel will also be used to support science outreach programs for local K-12 teachers, students, and community members. Researchers and instructors from other institutions will also be able to charter the vessel for scientific or educational purposes.