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USGS Research Vessel Williams

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By Pacific Coastal and Marine Science Center February 14, 2024

USGS Pacific Coastal and Marine Science Center's Research Vessel Williams.

 

PCMSC MarFac

A metal boat sits on a towing trailer in a parking lot.
MarFac

Learn about our research vessels

USGS Pacific Coastal and Marine Science Center (PCMSC) acquired the 18’ skiff M.T. Williams in 2022.  The Williams is configured to conduct mapping and sub-bottom operations in remote bodies of water and unimproved shorelines, and instrument deployments and sampling operations in protected bays, waterways, and extremely shallow water in support of the science mission of the USGS PCMSC in Santa Cruz, California. 

Specifications

  • Manufacturer: Pacific Boats 
  • Length: 18 ft 
  • Beam: 7.6 ft 
  • Draft: 2.3 ft 
  • Propulsion: Single 60hp Honda outboard 
  • Auxiliary propulsion: 5hp Honda outboard 
  • Cruising Speed: 20 knots 
  • Fuel Capacity: 19 gallons 
  • Range: 190 miles @cruising speed 

Operational Characteristics

  • Davit - SWL 100 lbs 
  • Removeable electronics console and operator seat for survey operations 
  • Bow mount for instrumentation 
  • Swim step for dive operations 

Navigation

  • Garmin Echomap UHD2 64sv w/ inbuilt GPS antenna 
  • WAAS-capable, location to within 3 m (9.84 ft) 
  • Garmin depth sounder with GT54UHD-TM transducer 

 

Media
Photo of RV Williams at sunrise tied up to a dock with researchers aboard
Sources/Usage: Public Domain. View Media Details
Media
Research Vessel Williams on a trailer, seen from the front
Sources/Usage: Public Domain. View Media Details
Media
Photo of USGS Research Vessel Williams on a trailer
Sources/Usage: Public Domain. View Media Details
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