Burger Boat Delivers R/V Arcticus

Burger Boat Company delivered the R/V Arcticus, a 78-foot research vessel for the United States Geological Survey (USGS), on Friday, October 17, 2014.

The Arcticus replaces the 38-year-old R/V Grayling and brings the USGS Great Lakes Science Center (GLSC) large vessel fleet up-to-date. The Arcticus will be stationed at the USGS base in Cheboygan, Michigan and incorporates modern marine standards and state-of-the-art technology to more safely and effectively conduct fisheries research.

The Arcticus was designed and constructed for a 40-50 year service life and is capable of performing critical scientific and mission-related tasks including lake-wide bottom trawl surveys, acoustic surveys, gill net surveys, a variety of over-the-side science operations. JMS Naval Architects of Mystic, Connecticut developed the concept design of the Arcticus. For over 50 years the USGS GLSC has operated a unique and valuable deep-water fish ecology and assessment program that is the foundation for fisheries management throughout the Great Lakes.

Propulsion is provided by twin Caterpillar 454 BHP C12 C-Rating Tier 2 diesel engines and a bow thruster for increased maneuverability and station-keeping. The design includes a wet lab, dry lab, retractable transducers, ample working deck areas, large pilot house with excellent visibility and comfortable accommodations and working areas for a three-man crew and six scientists.