52′ Research Vessel for NOAA Gray’s Reef National Marine Sanctuary

RV GANNET: Advanced Research Vessel for NOAA’s Gray’s Reef National Marine Sanctuary

All American Marine (AAM) proudly delivers the RV GANNET, a 52-foot aluminum catamaran research vessel built for NOAA’s Gray’s Reef National Marine Sanctuary (GRNMS). Located 19 miles off Sapelo Island, Georgia, GRNMS is one of 15 U.S. National Marine Sanctuaries, protecting one of the largest live-bottom reef ecosystems in the Southeastern United States.

Innovative Hydrofoil-Assisted Design

Designed by Nic de Waal of Teknicraft Design, the 52’ x 19’ semi-displacement aluminum catamaran is based on the successful NOAA RV Storm Petrel. Equipped with twin Cummins QSC8.3 engines and twin propellers, RV GANNET offers enhanced fuel efficiency, extended range, and excellent maneuverability, ensuring NOAA’s ability to conduct research in both inland waterways and offshore environments.

Cutting-Edge Research Capabilities

Designed for multi-mission scientific exploration, RV GANNET is equipped for seafloor mapping, habitat characterization, marine species monitoring, and data collection. Key research features include:

• 250 sq. ft. aft working deck with adjustable A-frame for launching scientific equipment
• Interocean Conduction Wire Winch, Hauling Winch, and Morgan 300.4 Crane for deployment and retrieval operations
• Wet laboratory for specimen analysis and dry laboratory for data processing
• Flexible deck socket system for adaptable research setups
• Covered flybridge for elevated vessel operations

Enhancing Marine Conservation & Stewardship

Gray’s Reef is the only protected natural reef on Georgia’s continental shelf, covering 14,000 acres of essential marine habitat. The RV GANNET will support NOAA’s long-term monitoring efforts, providing a high-performance platform for ocean research and conservation.

“We are beyond excited to put the RV GANNET to work,” said Stan Rogers, Sanctuary Superintendent. “This vessel will transform research and monitoring capabilities at Gray’s Reef and across the South Atlantic Bight.”

Advancing NOAA’s Mission

Constructed at AAM’s Bellingham, WA facility, RV GANNET represents the next generation of sustainable marine research vessels, reinforcing NOAA’s commitment to ocean conservation, scientific discovery, and ecosystem protection.