As stewards of our Nation's special places in the sea and Great Lakes, NOAA's Office of National Marine Sanctuaries (ONMS) must always search for better ways to protect, conduct research, and monitor the resources of our sanctuary system. As a result, ONMS has launched a new class of Small Research Vessel (SRV) to support its ocean conservation missions.

SRVx (NOAA)

Vessels in this class can serve a wide range of ONMS resource protection missions. They can be especially helpful in sanctuaries with remote areas or where rough seas occur throughout the year. SRV's are capable of filling the gap between missions that use other types of small ships and those that require larger NOAA research vessels.

The SRVx serves not only to enhance ONMS missions, but also to support evolving technologies that enhance sanctuary research. The versatility encourages collaborations within NOAA as well as the public and private sectors. This new innovative research platform is ready to take on the challenges of understanding and conserving our nation's ocean environments and maritime heritage.

SRVx (NOAA)

This year's Battle of the Atlantic expedition will be conducted from the decks of the 85 ft. SRVx. Equipped with berthing space for 12, this vessel will provide the archaeologists, marine biologists, and researchers the ability to stay on the water for extended time periods, thus allowing them to conduct their research in a more efficient and timely manner. With over 200 square feet of dry lab space and various scientific equipment on board, the boat is an ideal platform for this summer's expeditions.

During this summer's expeditions, the SRVx will be docked in Ocracoke, N.C. The location, along with the support of the N.C. Department of Transportation Ferry Division, makes Ocracoke an ideal spot to base this research.