The CCGS Vladykov is the first of three new Near-Shore Fisheries Research Vessels to be delivered to the Canadian Coast Guard.
Commissioned in August 2012, the vessel was constructed at Meridien Maritime Inc. in Matane, Quebec to a design developed by Robert Allan Ltd of Vancouver, B.C. The CCGS Vladykov and its sister vessels will conduct scientific research in the Newfoundland and Labrador region. Secondary missions include search and rescue, environmental response and the support of marine programs for other government agencies.
The vessel is named after the internationally known ichthyologist, the late Professor Vadim Dimitrievitch Vladykov. Professor Vladykov contributed significantly to the study of fish biology in Canada.
The CCGS Vladykov hull form incorporates features of the very successful Robert Allan Ltd. RAstar Escort Tugs – a unique class of ASD tugs designed with a sponsoned hull form. This form has been proven in both model and full-scale testing to provide significantly enhanced seakeeping performance. The motions and accelerations are less than half those of comparable sized wall sided “standard” hulls. These features combined with excellent manoeuvrability allows the vessel to maintain station and continue conducting scientific operations in much higher sea states than previously possible with this relatively small size and type of vessel.
On trials, CCGS Vladykov met or exceeded all performance expectations, achieving a free running speed of over 10.5 knots.
Main propulsion comprises a pair of CAT C18 ACERT diesel engines, each producing 357 kW at 1800 rpm. Each engine drives a 1,350mm diameter propeller in a Rice triple rudder/nozzle configuration, via a Twin Disc MGX516 reduction gearbox. Rounding out the machinery package is a Jastram BU20F bow thruster, giving the vessel outstanding station keeping and manoeuvrability.
A scientific sensor suite, including echo sounders, multi-beam sonar and a trawl monitoring system enable the vessel to gather relevant fisheries data to be processed in the vessel’s wet and dry labs. Concurrently, an RD Instruments ADCP, Tracklink acoustic underwater positioning system and a deployable CTD rosette facilitate the collection of a wide array of other oceanographic data.
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Robert Allan Ltd, November 8, 2012; Image: Fisheries and Oceans Canada