Research Vessel
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) has purchased another Teknicraft catamaran research vessel by All American Marine, Inc. The 82’ 8” x 30’ aluminum catamaran is the largest research vessel built by AAM for NOAA’s National Marine Sanctuary program. The vessel operates in the Flower Garden Banks National Marine Sanctuary headquartered in Galveston, Texas. The sanctuary is located offshore approximately 105 miles south of the Texas and Louisiana border in the middle of the Gulf of Mexico.
The R/V Manta represents the fifth AAM Teknicraft catamaran for NOAA and the National Marine Sanctuaries. The plans for the research vessel were developed by Nic de Waal of Teknicraft Design, Ltd., Auckland, New Zealand. The vessel is based upon Teknicraft’s signature hull shape and incorporates hydrofoil technology, which allows for a smooth ride, low wake wash energy, and extreme fuel economy. The vessel was delivered in 2008.