Oceanographic Vessel Operations

A large portion of operations at Quest Marine Services are vessel based at sea evolutions. The majority of those operations take place from the research vessel QUEST. The R/V QUEST is a multidisciplinary research vessel based at Fairhaven Shipyard Companies, North Yard, in Fairhaven Massachusetts. The QUEST was totally rebuilt in 1997-98 as a dedicated research vessel custom tailored to operations in New England waters. The work deck is set up in modular fashion; equipment can be set up to suit the specific needs of a project.

Hydraulic power is piped to the work deck and fitted with high pressure quick disconnect fittings, enabling a selection of winches and tools to be used. Two eight foot long removable work benches are set up on either side of the work deck forward. A selection of mounts enables various instruments to be deployed over the bow, starboard side and stern. Instrument handling equipment includes a hydraulic stern mounted articulating A-Frame and mast and cargo boom mounted amidships and bow mounted instrument mounts. The main cabin / lab area is equipped with counter and tabletop space for computers and instruments. The forward cabin has six bunks with cushions and 40 square feet of rack / shelf space for equipment. 

Our homeport location at Fairhaven Shipyard Companies, North Yard, provides us with a highly capable base to operate from. Mobilization and demobilization is made simple by our ability to position the boat alongside a pier enabling direct loading from trucks to the boat. In some cases the cargo boom aboard the QUEST is used to lift equipment from trucks directly onto the vessel. Forklift capacity to 8,000lbs and crane capacity to 40,000lbs is also available in house at the shipyard.

Quest marine also operates a 14’ zodiac inflatable tender and has available a 25’ Boston Whaler for support craft when needed.

See our fleet specs page for complete vessel details.

fleet specs