University of Delaware
The ship was designed by Bay Marine, Inc. of Barrington, RI in cooperation with University of Delaware Marine Operations Director Matthew J. Hawkins. "Hugh R Sharp" was constructed by Dakota Creek Industries of Anacortes, WA. The name of the ship is drawn from Hugh R. Sharp, an alumnus from the University of Delaware and longtime supporter of ocean research by the University of Delaware. His estate and the University of Delaware shared the cost of the vessel.