The Channel Islands
National Marine Sanctuary's new 62' high-speed Teknicraft catamaran will be used, primarily, as a research platform, conducting biotic and abiotic oceanographic research in the waters of the Santa Barbara Channel in Southern California. In addition to this role the vessel will serve as a host for educational field trips and emergency response in and around the Channel Islands National Marine Sanctuary. The A-frame and winch configuration are used for a variety of projects including trawls, CTD casts, sediment sampling, and towing equipment such as sidescan sonar and ROVs. The wet and dry labs allow on-board processing of samples and data.
Extensive dive operations are supported by onboard facilities and equipment. Recent efforts within the Sanctuary have emphasized sea bird research, archeological/cultural research (primarily shipwrecks) and collecting baseline data for emerging management issues. On board berthing, stowage, galley and safety equipment allow for multiple-day excursions with crews of up to ten scientists.

RV Shark Cat Description
The Channel Islands National Marine Sanctuary's 28' twinhull power cruiser is used as a platform to support single day dive and emergency response operations. Dive support capacity includes the ability to carry up to three divers, with two tanks each and is outfitted with a dive ladder, oxygen, AED, and backboard. The endurance of 6 – 8 hours at continuous cruising speed of 25 knots makes the R/V Sharkcat an important asset for rapid response to emergencies that occur within the sanctuary.
Vessel Particulars pdf