General Statement of NeedIsle Royale is an island destination in northern Lake Superior. There are significant outposts for hotel, cabins, restaurants/pub, marina, offices, ranger stations, and entire communities of support personnel. Given its relative isolation, Isle Royale is not self-sustaining. In fact, it is extremely dependent upon the Ranger III as its primary lifeline. To handle its multiple missions, the Ranger III is utilitarian by design. It carries up to 128 passengers. It has multiple hold spaces and ample deck space to haul its cargo. It has additional tanks to carry the fuel necessary to keep the island’s generators and support boats running. Because she is a multi-mission vessel, the Ranger III falls short in being a good passenger vessel, cargo vessel or tank vessel. Concessions in every endeavor have been made in order to be utilitarian. When considering the design for its replacement, it should be noted that the Ranger III’s current capacities have been sufficient in carrying out her mission, but perhaps there are ways in which to increase her capabilities within the desired vessel dimensions. Also, regulations have changed since her construction, and the new vessel must be compliant with current OPA regulations for a small tank vessel. The National Park Service continually dedicates itself to pursuing greener alternatives. Consideration should be given to fuel economy and any new or emerging technologies that limits or even eliminates the vessel’s overall waste stream. The new vessel may have to work around the island while ice from the previous winter persists. The affect upon the vessel’s operation is minimal, so it does not require the type of construction required for Ice Classification. However, it should be able to cope with the limited ice it may encounter. A bow designed for ice breaking/crushing would go a long way in improving the new vessel’s capabilities. Return to Top of Owner's Requirements Primary Mission
Secondary Mission
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Last updated: October 17, 2017