APRIL 5, 2013 — Robert E. Derecktor, Inc., says it has been selected as the shipbuilder for the new 19.2-meter catamaran research and classroom vessel that is to serve as a "floating schoolhouse" for the Maritime Aquarium in Norwalk, CT.

The new Incat Crowther-designed all-aluminum vessel will carry up to 65 students with a crew of 5. As we reported last November (see previous story), it will be powered with a Northern Lights Hybrid Marine solution combining high performance Lugger propulsion engines with BAE System's HybriDrive Propulsion System.

As well as being "green," the vessel will be fully ADA compliant and will meet all current USCG Subchapter T requirements.

"We are happy to have this opportunity to build an unusual and sophisticated vessel for the Maritime Aquarium," said Paul Derecktor, President of Robert E. Derecktor, Inc.. "This vessel's requirements match our fundamental competencies: high-quality custom aluminum construction with complex machinery installations. She will be another in a long line of outstanding technical achievements for the shipyard."

Engineering will start immediately and delivery is anticipated in May 2014.