Gannon University's ENVIRONAUT undergoing major rebuild

Gannon University's research vessel ENVIRONAUT has spent the winter at Donjon Shipbuilding and Repair undergoing a major refit that includes a bottom replacement and a rebuild of the vessel's diesel engine.

The Erie-built vessel, used by Gannon during the navigation season as a floating classroom, ferries students from Gannon and local schools into Presque Isle Bay and Lake Erie to conduct scientific experiments.

The work on ENVIRONAUT is expected to be completed by spring.

Photos courtesy of ENVIRONAUT Capt. Sam Poulson

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ENVIRONAUT at Donjon Shipbuilding.


With the bottom of the hull out, work on the vessel's frame is underway.


Work on the stern.


Reinstalling the engine.


Bottom work.


Welding the vessel's hull.