Teknicraft was commissioned to design a 38m, 500 passenger harbour tour and event charter, Salish Explorer for Argosy Cruises. This new monoull, constructed by All American Marine in Bellingham Washington, was launched in the winter of 2017 adding to Argosy Cruises eight existing vessels that are currently in operation.Salish Explorer will operate in the Puget Sound, Lake Union, and Lake Washington areas giving guests a Northwest Native American cultural experience.
The boat is appointed with three passenger decks, two of which are enclosed, with the third, Upper Deck open for sightseeing and outdoor enjoyment. Main and Second Deck interiors provide built in perimeter seating with the large central areas open to allow versatile seating and table options for differing events. Large fully equipped bars & pantries on each deck, along with a Serving Pantry, and a "Bridal Room" are provided for catering and guest preparation. A large stores deck with walk in cooler is accessed by service lifts down from the Main Deck for ample storage and ease of loading. A passenger elevator provides wheelchair accessibility between Main and Second Deck which includes an aft outdoor area including a "balcony" overlooking the stern.
Heavily built skegs and a center keel provide protection for the propellers and the ability to let the boat "dry out" on the bottom which is required due to the tides and shallow water of some of the intended operating areas.This vessel is certified by U.S. Coast Guard (USCG), Subchapter K for lakes, bays & sounds route for 500 passengers.