History

The Velero IV (Spanish for smooth sailing) was designed and built by Captain G. Allen Hancock in 1948, to serve as a marine laboratory for the University of Southern California. Its intended use was for marine biological and geological research. Captain Hancock invited prominent scientists to accompany him as guests on his cruises, for the purpose of learning more about the natural history of the locations he visited. One such guest was Jacques Cousteau who tested skin-diving equipment during his excursions on board the Velero IV.

The vessel is currently involved with various universities, working on the West Coast from California to Alaska, including Canada. It supports submarine research, involving geological undersea mapping as well as direct observation of ground fish habitat and their ecosystems. Additionally, the Velero IV has been operating in Alaska for the past twenty years supporting the Salmon Seine and Herring Fisheries. The Velero IV is available for private charter on the West Coast from Alaska to California.

The Velero IV’s Atlas Imperial main engine was featured on the cover of the May 1995 issue of Pacific Maritime Magazine. Photo by Guy Hoppen. Courtesy of Pacific Maritime Magazine.

 Pacific Maritime Magazine
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