A new 38-foot teaching and research vessel has arrived in Hilo, giving marine science students at the University of Hawaiʻi at Hilo a powerful new ocean laboratory.
The aluminum workboat, named Kaiola, meaning “sealife,” arrived from Oregon in February. It is now in final outfitting and inspection before heading into the water.
“The new marine science vessel is a 38-foot North River Sounder, a class of aluminum workboat designed specifically for scientific, environmental monitoring, and coastal operations in high-energy conditions,” said John Burns, associate professor and chair of the marine science department.
Burns said the team chose the vessel for its stability and flexibility.
“We selected this platform because it provides a stable, shallow-draft, highly maneuverable work deck suitable for diving, instrument deployment, and nearshore research around Hawaiʻi Island,” Burns said.
The hull is made of welded marine-grade aluminum. Burns explains that aluminum boats are ideal for research. They resist corrosion in saltwater. They are lighter than fiberglass but just as strong. They can handle beach landings, heavy equipment and constant use.
“This durability is critical for a teaching and research vessel that will operate year-round in dynamic coastal conditions and remote locations,” he said.
The large open deck allows crews to deploy water and sediment samplers, underwater cameras, sensors and mapping tools. Inside, the cabin supports navigation, computing and real-time data processing.
Hands-on experience
For students, the impact is immediate. The vessel provides access to sites that were once difficult or unsafe to reach and offers more hands-on experience with real research equipment, data collection and marine operations which are core skills for careers in marine science and ocean stewardship.
For more go to UH Hilo Stories.
—By Susan Enright