Port Angeles, Wash.-based aluminum vessel maker BRIX Marine on Sept. 23 announced a pre-build of a new Long Island Sound Study-commissioned catamaran research vessel designed for environmental research.
The 44-foot catamaran, which is being constructed for the Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection, is expected to support marine and water quality research by gathering data necessary to help better understand Long Island Sound’s ecosystems.
The new vessel is set to include a walkaround structure and a larger advanced onboard lab so scientists can synthesize water sampling and trawl fishing activities data and is outfitted with a pair of 750HP Scania DI13 Marine Diesel engines and a fuel capacity of 2 x 250 gallons.
“Our LabCat hulls have built a reputation for performing like much larger vessels,” BRIX Marine Managing Director Perry Knudson said. “The 4416 for CT DEEP will fit into this same category. We are proud to have our boat supporting the science that promotes a healthy ocean in Connecticut and the North Atlantic.”
The new vessel is expected to be ready “by 2025,” according to BRIX Marine.
