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Construction Begins on New University Research Vessel

  • By Matt Jones
  • 03/19/26

Key Takeaways

  • All American Marine is building a 78-foot aluminum catamaran research vessel for UTMSI to support diverse scientific missions in the Gulf of Mexico.
  • The vessel will feature advanced research capabilities, including modular equipment, onboard labs, and specialized systems for tasks like ecology studies, seafloor mapping, and water analysis.
  • Designed for flexibility and performance, it will accommodate up to 30 passengers on day trips, reach speeds of 20 knots, and support both short-term and extended offshore research missions.

Boat-building company All American Marine recently announced that it has begun construction on a new catamaran research vessel for the University of Texas Marine Science Institute (UTMSI) in Port Aransas, Texas, according to a news release. The aluminum vessel will measure 78 feet by 26.7 feet and support academic, survey, and scientific missions in the Gulf of Mexico.

Its built-in amenities will include modular deck equipment, dedicated wet and dry labs, and an adjustable hydrofoil system, the news release reports. Its coastal and offshore efforts will include ecology research, seismic work, fisheries surveys, gravity coring, water chemistry analysis, and academic use for undergraduate and graduate programs.

“This vessel represents an investment not just in infrastructure, but in people, discovery, and Texas’s coastal future,” said Dr. Sharon Herzka, UTMSI Director. “By expanding access to modern, purpose-built research capabilities, we’re empowering scientists and students to ask bigger questions, pursue new collaborations, and deliver the science needed for generations to come.”

The vessel will have capacity for 30 passengers during day missions and 14 passengers for extended, offshore research excursions. It will come equipped with the scientific equipment necessary for water sampling, marine life observation, mapping the seafloor, and geophysical surveys, according to the news release.

It will have twin 803-horsepower Caterpillar C18 Tier 3 diesel engines, capable of a cruising speed of up to 20 knots and survey speed of down to 3 knots, and a fuel capacity of 1,600 gallons.

“All American Marine is proud to partner with UTMSI on a vessel that brings together efficiency, flexibility, and proven performance,” said Ron Wille, president of All American Marine. “The Teknicraft platform allows a single vessel to support a wide range of scientific missions while maintaining the reliability and operational efficiency researchers depend on.”

About the Author

Matt Jones is senior editor of Spaces4Learning. He can be reached at [email protected].

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