USNS Hess was a hydrographic survey vessel. She was converted from the Mariner-class freighter SS Canada Mail during the mid 1970s to replace an older Victory Ship-based survey ship, the USNS Michaelson.

IDNo: 6419758 Name: CANADA MAIL Type: Cargo ship (ref) - Flag: USA Keel: 10.8.63 - Launch Date: 30.5.64 Date of completion: 12.3.65
Tons: 12440 Link: 1830
DWT: 14747 Yard No: 336 - Ship Design: C4-S-1sa
Length overall: 171.8 LPP: 161.0 Beam: 23.2 Country of build: USA
Builder: National Steel (NASSCO)
Location of yard: San Diego
Number of screws Speed(kn): 1ST-21

Sold for $452,000 on 29th December 2010, to Esco Marine, of Brownsville, Texas, USA, for dismantling. E.T.A. 01/03/2011.
Regards, Rick

Great photo Andreas; from another era and a good looking vessel. Building commenced 1963 and not completed till 1965!
See here:- http://www.navsource.org/archives/09/10/1038.htm
She has IMO 6419758.
Regards, Rick