R/V VIRGINIA: Flexible oceanographic research vessel

摘要

The 28.4m × 8.5m R/V Virginia was ordered to perform oceanographic research in Chesapeake Bay and mid-Atlantic coastal waters, and offers flexibility in outfitting, allowing for high utilisation and affordable day rates. The vessel has also been designed to easily adapt to evolving scientific research areas such as wind energy development surveys, environmental impact studies, sediment studies and the servicing of ocean observing systems. Two Cummins QSK 19M engines have been coupled to a Finnoy 2G27-42FK two-in/one-out marine gear driving a Finnoy controllable-pitch propeller. The propeller turns inside of a Rice thrust nozzle with triple Rice rudders for steering. This arrangement means the vessel can operate efficiently on a single propulsion engine when on station or during low-speed transits, to reduce overall engine hours and emissions.