The Robert Gray was built in 1936 for US Corps of Engineers specifically for research and surveying in Alaskan waters. 

On May 12, 1792, Robert Gray became the first explorer to enter the Columbia River by crossing over the sandbar that blocked its mouth. He named the river after his ship.

The ship was recently renamed "Sacajawea" in the San Francisco Bay area. 

Reported in June 2025: The vessel was sold to the Voyagers Club and is now operating as R/V Robert Gray out of Charleston, South Carolina as a scientific research vessel. It is available for charter as well.