Velero III was a substantial steel motor vessel measuring 193 feet (58.8 meters) in overall length, with a waterline length of 190 feet (57.9 meters), a beam of 30 feet (9.1 meters), and a mean draft of approximately 11 feet 9 inches (3.6 meters). Powered by two six-cylinder Winton diesel engines producing a total of 1,700 shaft horsepower, the vessel could reach a cruising speed of approximately 15.75 knots (18.12 mph). It had a generous fuel capacity of 54,000 gallons (204,412 liters), providing an impressive cruising range of about 9,500 nautical miles at 14 knots, making it well-suited for extended voyages. Electrical systems included two 20-kilowatt belt-driven generators on the main shaft and two 75-kilowatt auxiliary generators driven by Winton engines, supplemented by onboard batteries for emergency power. The vessel carried 18,000 gallons (68,137 liters) of fresh water divided into separate systems for drinking and washing. Constructed at Craig Shipbuilding in Long Beach, California, Velero III was designed under the guidance of naval architect G. Bruce Newby to resemble and perform akin to contemporary U.S. Coast Guard cutters. Its interior featured yacht-like amenities, with a notable "grand stairway" connecting the owner's and guest quarters, and insulation with cork alongside forced ventilation systems. The ship was equipped with advanced navigation instruments, including a Sperry gyrocompass, autopilot, radio range finder, and fathometer. It also carried two 24-foot steel motor whaleboats and two wooden fishing and shore boats. Originally built for George Allan Hancock for both business and scientific research, Velero III became a key vessel in marine biological expeditions along the Pacific coast, particularly in collecting marine invertebrates. It contributed significantly to the Allan Hancock Foundation’s research efforts, with voyages that extended from Mexico to the Galápagos Islands, including notable visits to the Galápagos in 1927. The vessel's scientific significance is underscored by its role in expanding marine collections and data, housed later in Hancock Hall at USC. During World War II, Velero III was acquired by the U.S. Navy and commissioned as USS Chalcedony (PYC-16), serving weather station duties in the Hawaiian Sea Frontier from 1942 to 1946. After decommissioning, the vessel was transferred to civilian owners, operating as a yacht for Nicholas A. Kessler and later registered as Ahmady under the Kuwaiti flag. Its design and service history highlight its dual role as a scientific research vessel and wartime auxiliary, reflecting the versatility and importance of specialized research ships in the early 20th century.

This description has been generated using GPT-4.1-NANO based on the Vessel's wikidata information and then modified by ShipIndex.org staff.