Aboard the legacy vessel the R/V Bellows, we specialize in oceanic and expeditionary projects in the U.S. Gulf, along the Atlantic seaboard, and across the Bahamas.
R/V BELLOWS
Following a complete overall in 2025-2026, the Bellows features modern navigation and communications equipment, two mono boom telescoping cranes, two A-frames, dedicated winches, and 11 berthing accommodations across 5 state rooms capable of supporting multi-day voyages.
70 ft
Length Overal
180 ft²
Aft Deck
8.0 kts
Cruising Speed
20 ft
Beam
2
Heads
2
A-Frames, Up to
3k lbs SWL
5 ft
Draft
2
Deck Cranes
(2.8k lbs @ 7ft)
185 ft²
Wet & Dry Lab
11
Berths
LEGACY OF SERVICE
Acquired in 1972 by the University of South Florida, the R/V Bellows served for decades under the Florida Institute of Oceanography (FIO) where she supported thousands of students, researchers, and faculty in marine science across Florida’s coasts and beyond. Notable projects include the 2005 discovery of Pulley Ridge, the deepest known photosynthetic coral reef in the continental U.S., as well as her involvement in studying the immediate ecological impacts following the 2010 Deepwater Horizon oil spill.
After retiring from FIO service in 2019, the Bellows assisted maritime archaeological research or shipwreck expeditions before joining the MARISTAR platform.
R/V BELLOW VIRTUAL TOUR
