The twin-engine vessel is BLUETIDE’S first vessel for their marine research, education, innovation, and conservation work based out of Puerto Rico. The mission of BLUETIDE is to “Influence, Innovate, Support and Increase the eco-responsible economic impacts of a sustainable “Blue Economy” in the US Caribbean,” and this vessel will help to achieve and grow their efforts in the region.
For the operator, the most valuable feature of these vessels is the excellent fuel economy, which consumes approximately the same gallons per nautical mile throughout the estimated cruising speed of 18-24 knots, with a fuel-efficient survey operation speed of 3 knots. Spacious accommodation is provided for up to 30-day passengers, or 8 live-aboard crew and scientists on extended voyages.
“The acquisition of this vessel will give us another perspective of the sea as an asset and a resource to educate ourselves, explore and innovate in a collaborative way, spearheading a new economy for the region” said Guifre Tort, Bluetide’s former Interim Executive Director