JMS Provides Support to UNC Wilmington for New Research Vessel
The University of North Carolina Wilmington (UNCW) took delivery of a state-of-the-art high speed research vessel, the R/V Osprey, in August 2026. JMS Naval Architects provided naval architecture support and consulting services to UNCW to assist them in acquiring the new research vessel. JMS assisted UNCW in the development of their science mission requirements and mapped those requirements to the capabilities and specific oceanographic outfitting. This resulted in a design-build solicitation and technical specification. JMS also provided on-site support during construction, trials and delivery.
Photo Credit: All American Marine
All American Marine in Bellingham, WA was selected to build the 78 foot aluminum catamaran. Designed by Teknicraft Design, the vessel integrates hydrofoil-assisted hull technology for speed, efficiency, and sea keeping. It supports oceanographic research, biological surveys, seafloor mapping and hands-on education during multi-day offshore oceanographic research missions in North Carolina’s coastal waters and beyond.
The vessel is designed and built to USCG Subchapter T standards. Twin Scania Di16-082M EPA Tier 3 engines power the vessel at a cruising speed of 22 knots. The vessel is equipped with a dual drum oceanographic winch, stern A-Frame and Wet and Dry Labs to conduct a broad range of missions — from oceanographic surveys and biological studies to hands-on educational programs for students and charters of outside agencies.
