The R/V Norseman II is a 115’ steel vessel built originally as a commercial King Crab boat to fish Alaskan waters such as the Bering Sea and the Northern Pacific Ocean. It’s steel hull and whaleback design allow for an economical cruising speed of 10 knots. The vessel is well configured and designed for a wide variety of research, survey, and ocean-based programs. The R/V Norseman II is a deep draft (13’) heavy weather Marco shipyard hull powered by a Caterpillar single main engine propulsion unit along with an auxiliary propulsion system to allow for redundancy. It has both a large steel stern working deck with a 8-ton A-Frame equipped with (2) picking winches and a capstan, as well as a very large upper deck area with a 5-ton deck crane, multi-beam pole, (2) trawl winches and (1) oceanographic winch. Vast below deck dry storage, and a deck load capacity of up to 20 tons.

In 2007 the Norseman II went through a major and complete renovation in Seattle taking her from the commercial fishing fleet to the world of oceanographic research and eco-tourism. From the wheelhouse to the aft deck the vessel was reconfigured with modern technology and accommodations. Five spacious four person staterooms equipped with full on-suite heads and showers were created strictly for science personnel. A well ventilated, temperature controlled main deck science lab and salon with natural light were added for personnel to conduct operations and network comfortably while not being compartmentalized. Electronics were installed to aid in navigation, communication and oceanographic sampling while improving work and life at sea. Auxiliary generators were replaced to provide an environmentally efficient and quiet living environment while maintaining the power required to operate todays electric equipment. A large tunnel bow thruster was added for precise maneuverability and station holding capabilities. Overall, the Norseman II kept the tried and trusted Marco shipyard hull design but added the machinery and creature comforts of today’s research personnel’s wants and needs.

The R/V Norseman II has a long list of reputable clients conducting programs from California to the high Eastern Arctic Ocean. It is a well-qualified vessel able to support all types of operations such as oil and mining exploration, environmental clean-up, oceanographic research, mooring deployment/recoveries, site hazard surveys, and many other maritime operations.