The Monterey Bay Aquarium Research Institute (MBARI) has unveiled plans for a new addition to their fleet of research vessels. The R/V David Packard, named after MBARI’s founder, will replace the retirement-bound R/V Western Flyer and become the new center of operations for the remotely operated vehicle (ROV) Doc Ricketts. MBARI engaged Glosten in 2010 to develop a concept design for the vessel–a cutting-edge R/V that would shuttle the Doc Ricketts around Monterey Bay and other marine destinations to collect vital data for geological, ecological, and biogeochemical research. Much of the work around these projects is conducted on board the research vessel, so ships must be equipped with the necessary facilities and features to support scientific missions. The 50-meter David Packard has the capacity for 12 crew and 18 scientists and will offer MBARI an even greater range of capabilities than its predecessor, with the chops to reliably handle general-purpose research in addition to ROV-driven missions

Glosten provided design and specification services for the shipyard bid package and assisted in the bid review process. Once construction of the vessel is underway at Friere Shipyard in Spain, Glosten will serve as the on-site construction support team on behalf of MBARI. Construction is expected to begin in spring of 2021, with an expected completion date in May 2023.  For more details about the R/V David Packard, view the original press release.