Eastern Shipbuilding to Build Catamaran for University of Miami

Eastern Shipbuilding has been contracted to build a 96 x 40-ft. aluminum catamaran research vessel for the Rosensteil School of Marine and Atmospheric Science at the University of Miami. The design for the new boat was by Tim Graul Marine Designs of Sturgeon Bay Wisconsin. DeJong and LeBay are working with the yard on engineering details. Propulsion will be provided by a pair of 19-liter six-cylinder Cummins QSK19 main engines each generating 760 hp @ 2100 rpm. The drive system, from the main engines aft, is supplied by Servogear AS of Norway. The Servogear model HD220H has a ratio of 2.609:1 and turns an 1,100-mm controllable pitch propeller. Steering by Jastram and two Wesmar bowthrusters are integrated with the Servogears to operate with a Simrad Dynamic Positioning system. Hydraulics for the main winches and bow thruster are also taken off the Servogears. Design speed for the vessel is 13 knots. Electrical power will be generated by a pair of six-cylinder Cummins 6BT5.9GM 65Kw gensets. An electric motor will provide additional hydraulic service to a variety of small cranes and winches required for the deployment of research gear. Cutting of the aluminum was underway in early July with vessel delivery anticipated for February 2000.