J.M. Martinac Shipbuilding Corporation and the Sea Education Association (SEA)
of Woods Hole, Massachusetts entered an agreement for the construction of a 134-foot Brigantine sailing ship in December 1999. The ship
will be used by SEA for oceanographic research and maritime training of college students. When completed in August, 2001, the ship will be the most advanced research sailing vessel in the world.
The J.M. Martinac Shipbuilding Corporation was chosen from 20 competing yards worldwide. The company's winning proposal beat out competitors in Florida, Rhode Island, and France. "Martinac had the best bid in all respects," said SEA President Rafe Parker. "The time I've spent with them, my overall good feelings have been born out."
This sailboat packs plenty of power. When not propelled by her 8,500 square-feet of canvas, she will utilize a 455-horsepower Caterpillar main engine with a 54-inch adjustable pitch propeller. Two Northern Lights 55-kilowatt generators provide electrical power to support a complete navigational electronics system. 6,340 gallons of fuel and accommodations for 40 students and crew will enable SEA to take its new vessel to the ends of the earth...and back.