Ocean Spirit 43 Motorised survey catamaran

Purpose-built for offshore survey operations, VAQUITA combines a unique vessel architecture with specialised design features tailored for advanced hydrographic, geophysical, and geotechnical work in demanding marine environments.

What inspired
the name

Creating awareness for the Vaquita porpoise, the world's most endangered marine mammal, is vital to preventing its extinction.

Beyond saving a single species, protecting the Vaquita represents a broader commitment to preserving marine biodiversity and maintaining the health and balance of fragile ocean ecosystems for future generations.

At a glance

Length overall: 12.9 m (43 ft)
Beam: 7.85 m
Draft: 1.25 m
Engines: 2 × Yanmar 4JH57 (57 hp)
Cruise speed: 8 knots
Survey speed: 5.5 knots
Endurance: 10 to 14 days, 24-hour ops
Accommodation: 4 cabins, up to 8 berths
Classification: SAMSA Category A (unrestricted offshore)

Vaquita moored at Durban Marina — Currently moored at Durban Marina

Designed for offshore marine services

Configured as a motorised vessel, VAQUITA leverages the fuel efficiency of her round bilge hulls together with the exceptional stability provided by her 7.8-metre beam, delivering a highly capable and efficient offshore platform.

Her environmentally conscious power system integrates solar and battery technology to reduce operational impact while enhancing onboard efficiency. This robust energy setup enables multi-day survey operations with minimal engine reliance, delivering quiet, efficient, and sustainable onboard power management.

Large fuel and freshwater capacities provide an impressive 10 to 14 day endurance, supporting extended offshore campaigns without compromising crew comfort or operational capability.

Designed with survey functionality at the forefront, VAQUITA offers two expansive working areas and dedicated equipment storage within the aft wheelhouse, creating a practical and comfortable workspace for complex survey operations and specialised mission equipment.

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Accommodation

Cabins

Accommodation is provided in four well-appointed ensuite cabins, offering comfortable berthing for both crew and survey personnel. The forward section features two spacious double cabins, while two twin-berth cabins are located aft. Each cabin is equipped with a private ensuite bathroom comprising a hand basin, shower, and electric toilet, and benefits from a porthole that provides natural light and ventilation, creating a bright and comfortable onboard living environment.

Saloon

The main saloon features comfortable L-shaped seating for six around a central dining table, creating an inviting space for meals, meetings, or mission planning. Dedicated chart tables are positioned on both the port and starboard sides, each complemented by integrated storage cupboards below for charts, equipment, and operational materials. Additional storage is provided through a galley-side cupboard and under-bench compartments, maximising practicality without compromising comfort. A TV monitor allows crew and survey personnel to view navigation and survey data directly from the helm station plotter, while also serving as an entertainment system during downtime.

Galley

Centrally located for convenient access from both the forward accommodation and aft working areas, the galley is designed for efficient onboard living during extended offshore operations. Facilities include a double stainless-steel sink with hot and cold pressurised water, a double-door inverter-powered fridge/freezer, a gas stove, and a microwave oven, providing all the essentials for comfortable meal preparation at sea.

Aft Deck

The spacious covered aft deck is designed as a versatile working and social area, featuring L-shaped bench seating with tables on both the port and starboard sides. These areas provide generous workspace, integrated power outlets, and dedicated storage for sample bottles and survey equipment. The elevated helm station, positioned to starboard, offers commanding visibility over the vessel and surrounding work area, enhancing operational awareness during survey activities.

Additional aft deck amenities include port and starboard escape hatches, a gas braai (grill), freshwater sink, and live bait well. A freshwater shower is conveniently located on the port-side sugar scoop, providing a practical rinse-off station for personnel and equipment following diving, swimming, or deck operations. A dedicated pole-and-winch deployment system further enhances the vessel's survey capability, enabling the safe and efficient launch and recovery of hydrographic and oceanographic equipment.

Fore Deck

The expansive foredeck is configured to support both operational efficiency and extended offshore missions. Seven dedicated compartments are strategically integrated into the deck layout, including port and starboard rope lockers, a central chain locker housing the windlass and anchor chain, two wet lockers, and port and starboard ventilation hatches that provide natural airflow and cooling to the interior accommodation spaces.

To support survey and sampling operations, the foredeck is equipped with a hydraulic winch and a dedicated locker housing the hydraulic motor. The system interfaces with a forward-mounted hoist, enabling the deployment and recovery of grab samplers and other survey equipment. The port-side wet locker incorporates a high-pressure seawater washdown hose, providing a convenient means of rinsing the deck, equipment, and sediment samples during field operations.