BOURNE (CBS) – The Mass Maritime Academy’s T.S. Kennedy training ship departed today and is headed for New Jersey.

The 576-foot vessel is technically a federal asset, and the government’s emergency workers need housing as they provide relief to victims of Hurricane Sandy.

Fortunately, the Kennedy can house 700 people and will act as a floating hotel for workers in need of a place to stay.

The ship is expected to stay in the area for a month.