UNCW Announces Major Addition to Research Vessel Fleet

As an internationally recognized leader in coastal and marine science research and education, the Center for Marine Science (CMS) at the University of North Carolina Wilmington (UNCW) is excited to announce the upcoming addition of an All American Marine-made, cutting-edge 73-foot research vessel to its fleet.  

“This vessel will provide our faculty, students and partners with a state-of-the-art platform to explore and study the marine environment, contributing significantly to our mission of advancing marine science and promoting stewardship of coastal environments,” said CMS Executive Director Ken Halanych. “Our partnership with All American Marine is a strategic step forward in enhancing our research and educational capabilities.” 

UNCW’s strategic commitment to world-class operations is exhibited in this expertly designed vessel by Teknicraft Design in Auckland, New Zealand. The new vessel will measure 73 feet long and 26.7 feet in beam. With twin engines, the propeller-driven vessel is engineered to serve as a versatile research platform, capable of supporting an array of innovative scientific missions.  

“The vessel will be the largest piece of interdisciplinary research equipment at the university and will support geophysical surveys (sand, offshore energy), oceanographic instrumentation deployment (CORMP buoys, gliders), fishery surveys, research diving, biological studies and community outreach programs,” said CMS Associate Director of Marine Operations Jay Styron. 

Built to meet U.S. Coast Guard (USCG) Subchapter T standards, the vessel will ensure the highest levels of safety and efficiency in diverse maritime environments as an essential part of the university’s environmental stewardship. 

“The vessel will be outfitted with a dry lab, a wet lab, 10 bunks, a galley, two shower/heads, a deck crane, an A-frame 5000 lb. cap, state-of-the-art marine electronics, acoustic Doppler current profilers and a multibeam sonar system,” Styron said. 

“The acquisition of a new research vessel marks a major advancement for our research,” said Provost and Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs James J. Winebrake. “This vessel will significantly enhance our ability to conduct advanced marine and coastal studies--reflecting our commitment as the state’s coastal university--and will strengthen our role in preserving coastal ecosystems and supporting the region’s economic and environmental vitality.” 

Building a vessel of this size and capacity will take some time. UNCW anticipates receiving the vessel in spring 2026. Unparalleled opportunities, nationally prominent programs, community commitment and world-class operations and infrastructure are the pillars of the university.