Research Vessels Construction Progressing as Scheduled

Seattle-based Naval Architecture and Marine Engineering company Guido Perla & Associates, Inc. (GPA) reports that construction of the AGOR 27 R/V Neil Armstrong is progressing according to plan at Dakota Creek Industries (DCI) in Anacortes, Wash. A major milestone was achieved recently with the completion of the hull assembly after the stern block was set, followed by the installation of the pilot house.

The complex vessels, AGOR 27 and sister vessel AGOR 28 R/V Sally Ride, also well under way at DCI, meet the latest standards in shipbuilding technology, complying with the highest safety standards and providing unprecedented capabilities for advanced oceanographic research. GPA’s proven design standards offer an economical solution that evolved throughout many years by working with clients in developing the most practical and economical vessel to construct and turning complex ideas into reality. These established standards include many GPA methods and ideas that exploit the benefits of engineering and enable shipyards to build more vessels in less calendar time in a cost-saving manner while owners benefit from a vessel that provides efficient operations. 
After developing the Basic Design, Regulatory Design and Detail/Production Engineering for the navy-owned, advanced oceanographic research vessel, GPA now supports DCI onsite throughout the construction and delivery of the 238-foot vessels. GPA’s track record of construction projects together with DCI provides a solid foundation based on competence, practicality and understanding of government contracts and procedures coupled with well-coordinated teamwork.

“Teamwork is the ability to work together towards a common vision and to direct individual accomplishments towards organizational objectives. Working closely with DCI and equipment suppliers is the key to moving through this advanced project the way we are and achieving each milestone within the given parameters. DCI is producing vessels of outstanding quality and together, we are meeting our timelines and are on schedule for the launch of AGOR-27 in the 1st quarter of 2014.” said Eric Engelbrecht, GPA’s Project Manager for these vessels.

These vessels are yet another example of GPA’s diverse capabilities and experiences that enhance their ability to integrate several types of design ideas and established in-house design features and standards into new vessel concepts, thus continuously adding variety to the gene pool of their designs. GPA’s range of designs tailored to customers’ diverse requirements and preferences is likely one of the most versatile vessel portfolios among renowned naval architects worldwide.”

Delivery is scheduled for late 2014 for AGOR 27 and early 2015 for AGOR 28. Once completed, AGOR 27 will be operated by the Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution, and AGOR 28 will be managed by the Scripps Institution of Oceanography under charter party agreements with ONR. Both ships will be supporting scientists with ongoing research worldwide, including in the Atlantic, Western Pacific and Indian Ocean regions in a wide variety of missions.