This paper describes the design and construction of a 200ft rocket retrieval ship for West Coast space shuttle operations. The ship, MV Independence, is designed to retrieve the reusable solid rocket booster casings from each launch of the space shuttle. Construction design and technical management of the project are outlined and a typical rocket retrieval mission is described. Updated information on builder's trials and mission performance is appended. Principal particulars are: Length oa 176ft; beam 37ft; depth 15ft; hull form moulded round bilge; main propulsion twin EMD diesels - 2900 shp; propulsion twin cpp's; auxiliary propulsion aft gill thruster 360 deg.; bow thruster fixed tunnel; work deck area 3050 sq.ft.; crew 10, retrieval personnel 14; maximum speed at retrieval draft 14.5 knots.