The Virginia Institute of Marine Science's (VIMS') research vessels, including the 93-foot research vessel Virginia, purpose-built for VIMS in 2018, are available for use both by VIMS researchers and external parties.

The R/V Virginia offers flexibility in science outfitting, rapid turn-around for frequent use, and affordable operation. The vessel is easily adaptable to evolving scientific research areas such as environmental impact studies, the servicing of ocean observing systems, and offshore-energy exploration and development surveys.

The Virginia offers flexibility in science outfitting, rapid turn-around for frequent use, and affordable operation. The vessel is easily adaptable to evolving scientific research areas such as environmental impact studies, the servicing of ocean observing systems, and offshore-energy exploration and development surveys.

Marine Operations at the Virginia Institute of Marine Science maintains and operates VIMS' fleet of research vessels and also offers a broad range of technical services to the VIMS scientific community.

The Institute's research fleet comprises more than 30 small boats and several larger vessels staffed with dedicated crews. VIMS' technicians, machinists, welders, fabricators, and mechanics can design, fabricate, and repair complex electronic and mechanical instruments and tools.

They can also assist in designing field programs and conducting fieldwork, either locally or away. 

VIMS is mandated by the Commonwealth of Virginia to conduct research and provide sound scientific advice concerning the often-contentious issues surrounding the use and conservation of marine resources.

In the years since our founding in 1940, we have developed unique capabilities in people, practices, and infrastructure that allow us to provide the honest, unbiased science and guidance needed to help address the pressing issues facing our rivers, estuaries, coasts, and ocean.

Contact VIMS' operational staff for further details.