R/V Elakha

The 54-foot research vessel Elakha has a small laboratory area, berthing for four and a small galley. The name Elakha, the Chinook trading language word for sea otter, was selected after consultation with researchers and representatives of regional Native American groups.

Scientific capabilities include a 1,000-pound capacity A-frame and winch and a flow-through water sampling system. R/V Elakha is powered by a single, 600-horsepower diesel engine and has a range of about 575 miles.

The vessel is primarily operated out of Newport along the Oregon coast, including the Columbia River and other Oregon estuaries, as well as offshore to about 30 nautical miles. 

Built in 2000 by Rozema Boat Works in Mount Vernon, Washington, Elakha was constructed in collaboration with Oregon State University researchers to facilitate near-coastal science operations.