Two new oceanographic-class research ships, part of NOAA’s plan to modernize its research fleet, have reached a key construction milestone.
In March, the 244'x51'x22' Discoverer was launched in Houma, La., at Thoma-Sea Marine Constructors. Now 68% complete, the Discoverer will be homeported in Newport, R.I., after commissioning.
The Discoverer and its sister ship, the Oceanographer, to be homeported at Honolulu, will support a variety of NOAA missions, including deep sea expeditions, missions to monitor oceanographic conditions and marine life studies.
Both vessels incorporate new clean energy technologies, including vessel emission controls and high-efficiency diesel engines. Four Cummins QSK 38 Tier 4 engines drive a diesel-electric propulsion system with an integrated Siemens Energy BlueDrive PlusC platform and batteries storing 712 kWh of electrical power.
The propulsion system delivers power to Schottel L-drives and a Tees White Gill pump jet bowthruster.
The hybrid systems are projected to reduce fuel consumption by about 15,000 gals. per year, and reduce carbon dioxide emissions by about 5,700 tons, according to NOAA.
Oceanographer was floated in fall 2024 at Thoma-Sea and construction is 76% complete. The new ships will operate with a crew and scientists of as many as 48 people. Both ships are expected to be completed in 2026.
The U.S. Navy awarded a $178 million contract in 2020 to Thoma-Sea for the design and construction of the new class of NOAA vessels. The average age of NOAA’s 15-ship fleet is now over 30 years, and by 2030, six ships will likely reach the end of their service life, according to the agency.
“These new state-of-the-art ships will ensure NOAA can continue to meet its mission to support safe navigation, coastal resource management and the nation’s economy,” according to a construction update issued this week.
NOAA’s fleet of research and survey ships is operated, managed and maintained by the agency’s Office of Marine and Aviation Operations. The ships are crewed by NOAA Corps officers and civilian professional mariners.
