Mamaroneck, NY - July 25, 2023 - Derecktor Shipyards NY, the nation’s leading builder of commercial hybrid vessels, is proud to announce it has delivered a hybrid research catamaran to the University of Vermont (UVM). The innovative vessel, named RV Marcelle Melosira after Marcelle Leahy, wife of retired U.S. Senator Patrick Leahy - who championed the Clean Water Act and helped secure significant funding to support the project, the University of Vermont, and the state, will serve as a floating classroom and laboratory, enabling advanced research operations and hands-on educational programs.
“Senator Leahy has shown unwavering support for environmental research and education that benefits Vermont and Vermonters,” said UVM President Suresh Garimella. “His decades of commitment to the improvement and preservation of water quality in the Lake Champlain watershed have made our region healthier and our future brighter. The senator’s stewardship of the research vessel project will allow UVM researchers to continue their important work well into the future.”
Designed by Chartwell Marine and built in collaboration with UVM and Chartwell, the 19-meter (64 ft) research catamaran has been meticulously crafted to fulfill the functions outlined by UVM’s Rubenstein School of Environment & Natural Resources. These functions include low emissions, low fuel burn rates, a stable and safe platform for research, high maneuverability, and the ability to tow trawls, sleds, and plankton nets. The vessel will also facilitate the launch and recovery of scientific equipment, small remotely operated vehicles (ROVs), and sediment sampling devices.
The RV Marcelle Melosira is equipped with dual control stations to maximize operability, and offers a large interior space and an expansive exterior aft deck area. Constructed of aluminum, the vessel is designed to operate on the beautiful and large Lake Champlain in up to 1.5-meter Significant Wave Height conditions, providing a tough, reliable and valuable research platform for UVM.
"The new hybrid electric vessel is one of the first of its kind for research and teaching, fully equipped to expand UVM's cutting-edge world-class research, deliver hands-on education programs to students of all ages, and welcome the public to learn about the mysteries, wonders, and significance of our great Lake Champlain," said Jason Stockwell, Director of the Rubenstein Ecosystem Science Laboratory.
UVM, through its strategic vision "Amplifying Our Impact," remains committed to research initiatives that strengthen healthy environments and societies. The construction of the RV Marcelle Melosira aligns with this vision, and the vessel's arrival at the Rubenstein Ecosystem Science Laboratory on Lake Champlain in 2023 will mark an important milestone in advancing scientific exploration and education.
Derecktor Shipyards' expertise in hybrid vessel production, along with their strong tender response, led to their selection for this prestigious project. Derecktor has established itself as the industry leader in the development and construction of hybrid vessels, and the RV Marcelle Melosira is the fourth such build using hybrid systems supplied by BAE.
"We are gratified to be part of this project and to continue to contribute to the advancement of hybrid vessel technology," said Mark Donahue, Director of Development Derecktor Shipyards New York. "This unique research vessel will not only serve as a platform for scientific exploration but also foster the education of future scientists and engineers."
About Derecktor Shipyard NY:
Derecktor Shipyards NY is a renowned shipyard based in Mamaroneck NY, specializing in the construction and repair of commercial craft and yachts.
Media Contact:
John Koenig
Director of Communications
Derecktor Shipyards
Phone: +1 914-415-7025
Email: johnk@derecktor.com
