Coast Guard Academy Cube Crusher Co.: First Class Cadets Harry Hoffman, Jordan Fonville, Alberto Enriquez Luna, and Dakota Richter pose for a photo before giving their capstone presentation.
U.S. Coast Guard photo by Petty Officer 2nd Class Lauren Laughlin
In response to increasing vessel traffic and opportunities for exploration in the Northwest Passage, Cube Crusher Co. has designed a concept Arctic Multi-purpose Support Vessel. This concept vessel is intended for commercial operation in order to serve two primary missions acting as a cruise vessel escort and as a science research platform. Compliant with Polar Class 6 requirements of the International Maritime Organization, this concept vessel is 360-feet long and is capable of breaking three feet of ice at three knots. In conjunction with this classification, the vessel will safely operate in the summer and autumn months. The concept vessel was designed to the standards of 46 CFR Subchapter L, for Offshore Supply Vessels. A dual-acting hull design and the use of azimuthing podded propulsors increases vessel maneuverability and capability in a various Arctic conditions, and has proved seaworthy in both transit and rough sea states through MARINTEK’s ShipX software program. Cube Crusher Co.’s design philosophy is focused on increasing the safety of passengers and crews in the Arctic, promoting good stewardship of the environment through science and research, and maximizing the overall functionality of the multi-mission vessel.