Silver Ships delivers survey boat to USACE

The Corps will use the all-welded aluminum vessel for surveying the waters in both the Gulf of Mexico and rivers of the New Orleans District. Designed and engineered by naval architect Lou Codega, PE of Smithfield, VA, the vessel's hull form is designed to handle the short choppy seas of the Gulf Coast regions.  

The survey boat can achieve a top speed of 28+ knots with a range of 300+ miles and operates at a cruising speed of approximately 25 knots. Power is provided by twin Caterpillar C18 diesels rated at 803 hp each and coupled to Twin Disc v-drive gears.

The pilothouse has full, unobstructed 360° visibility from the operator's station at all vessel speeds. All interior spaces on the vessel are climate controlled by two 18 kBTU and one 12 kBTU air conditioning systems. Pilothouse accommodations include Mylar shades, hydraulic/suspension seating for a crew of two plus a dinette settee for four. Forward cabin accommodations include an enclosed berthing area for four, Magna Germ Type 2 marine sanitation system with private head, shower, full galley and hanging storage locker.

Navigation and communications equipment includes two Raymarine E165 radar/chartplotters and two ICOM M506 VHF radios and Carlisle & Finch 12" searchlight.  Onboard electrical service is supplied by 12/24 volt DC power. A 21.5kW Caterpillar C2.2 diesel generator and 60 amp shore power are provided, supplying 120 and 240 volt auxiliary power to the boat.