Marine Advanced Research, Inc. has created a new class of watercraft based on a patented technology that delivers a radically new seagoing experience. Called the WAM-V™ (Wave Adaptive Modular Vessel), these ultra-light flexible catamarans are modularly designed to allow for a variety of applications and to fit the requirements of specific users, missions or projects.

Proteus is the first full-size WAM-V™ constructed and it features two Twin Disc MG-5061-A marine transmissions along with dual Arneson ASD 8 surface drives to maximize her speed, maneuverability and overall performance.

Unlike conventional boats, the hulls of a WAM-V™ conform to the surface of the water. A WAM-V™ does not push, slap or pierce the waves. She utilizes flexibility to adapt her structure and shape to the water surface. Instead of forcing the water to conform to the hull, she gives and adjusts; she "dances" with the waves.

A superstructure is flexibly connected to specially designed pontoons by several components that actually move in relation to one another. A WAM-V™ has springs, shock absorbers and ball joint to articulate the vessel and mitigate stresses to structure, payload and crew.

The payload module on a WAM-V™ can be switched with a different one in less than an hour, transforming the WAM-V™ into another vessel for a different use. It can go from a luxury cabin for two to a 12-person transport, from a scuba diving platform to an emergency response unit. In most versions, the payload module is a self-contained craft that can lower to the surface, detach and operate under its own power.

The WAM-V™ technology is environmentally friendly by its very nature and design. In spite of the large size necessary to negotiate the open ocean, the WAM-V™ produces a minimum wake. Being ultra-light, its anchors are those of a much smaller vessel, thus decreasing disruption to the ocean floor. Fuel consumption is also significantly less than that of other vessels with comparable characteristics. For more information about the WAM-V™, go to www.wam-v.com.