A new 26-meter research vessel is being built for Cape Fear Community College (CFCC) in Wilmington, North Carolina, USA. The design comes from Incat Crowther, a global digital shipbuilder, and construction is taking place at Midship Marine’s shipyard in Louisiana.
This vessel has a sturdy aluminum structure that will support CFCC’s Marine Technology program in conducting extended research and educational activities on the water. It will be able to operate on the Cape Fear River and go up to 100 nautical miles offshore.
The vessel is equipped with a heavy-duty retrieval system, including an A-Frame that can lift research equipment weighing up to 8,000 lbs (3,629 kg). It also has a telescopic davit and heavy-duty winches for efficiency on the upper and main decks. A stern platform is included for quick access to the water, which will be helpful for divers and researchers collecting water samples.
Designed for versatility, the vessel can accommodate up to 24 people for multi-day missions or 40 for single-day missions. It features two spacious decks, with the main deck having a four-person berth, two six-person berths, three bathrooms, and a large galley and mess area. There are also significant dry and wet labs for scientific and educational work, along with storage lockers on the foredeck.
The upper deck contains two four-person berths, a large bathroom, and an ergonomically designed bridge that enhances daily operations. The bridge provides the captain excellent visibility and includes wing stations for better maneuverability.
Grant Pecoraro, Managing Director North America at Incat Crowther, expressed enthusiasm about the project: “After a competitive tender process with Cape Fear Community College, we are thrilled to be involved. Our team of naval architects is collaborating closely with CFCC to ensure the vessel meets their needs and is suitable for the local environment. Construction has begun, and we anticipate launching the vessel in 2026.”
Jim Morton, President of CFCC, stated: “This new research vessel symbolizes our commitment to the future of the Marine Technology program. By providing our students with a reliable, modern vessel for hands-on learning, we are setting them up for long-term success in the maritime industry. We look forward to working with Incat Crowther and Midship Marine, whose reputation assures us that our students will receive top-notch training.”
Shawna Rowe, Program Director for Marine Technology at CFCC, added: “For over 60 years, our Marine Technology program has prepared students for careers in marine scientific support. The new research vessel will continue this legacy, serving as a floating classroom and laboratory for practical experiences in biological sampling, hydrographic surveying, and deploying oceanographic instruments. With updated technology, the vessel will provide immersive learning that reflects current industry challenges. This investment highlights CFCC's commitment to preparing skilled professionals who can support environmental stewardship and scientific discovery. Our new research vessel will equip students with the necessary tools and training to thrive in this evolving field and reinforces CFCC's leadership in marine technology education.”
To learn more about Incat Crowther's expertise in designing leading research vessels, including the award-winning 15-meter RV Resilience, visit: