Derecktor Shipyards announced a new vessel agreement with SoundWaters, a Stamford, Conn.–based nonprofit dedicated to environmental education and Long Island Sound stewardship. Designed in collaboration with a U.K.-based naval architect, the new purpose-built research and education platform will expand SoundWaters’ hands-on marine science programming to thousands of students across the region.
Their agreement launches the design and construction of R/V Brewer—a 50′ × 23′ aluminum research catamaran named in honor of Jack Brewer, founder of Brewers Marinas. The vessel blends proven performance with a flexible educational layout optimized for data collection, onboard learning, and passenger safety. Construction will take place at Derecktor’s New York yard, underscoring the shipyard’s commitment to American-built vessels that strengthen local marine science and education.
The vessel will carry 35 passengers with propulsion from Volvo Penta D8-700 IPS with secondary and docking control stations. The electrical system was designed with Canal Marine. The A-frame ship is equipped for the research needs of the nonprofit with level-wind trawl winches, a davit for Ponar grab sampling and CTD casts, and wet/dry laboratory with and education-focused layout. The lighting package is from Imtra.
The R/V Brewer will be used for on-water programming to Long Island Sound schools from New Rochelle to New London and Port Washington to Greenport. The new vessel will enable the organization to reach 10,000 more students, conduct expanded scientific programming, and continue its mission to protect and preserve one of America’s most vital estuaries.