The D K Coughran will operate within the Swan Canning Riverpark as well as the wider waters of the Marmion and Shoalwater Islands marine parks.
Comments attributed to Premier Mark McGowan:
"Doug was a great Western Australian, a leader and innovator who worked on behalf of the community and all wildlife.
"I was lucky enough to have met Doug when I was Environment Minister in 2006 and his passion and love for his work as a wildlife officer were evident.
"It is fitting a vessel employed to assist with protecting marine life is named in Doug's honour and will be used by many of the DBCA staff who Doug trained and mentored.
"His significant contribution to the protection and conservation of this State's marine animals was outstanding."
Comments attributed to Environment Minister Stephen Dawson:
"Doug's passion and love for his work as a wildlife officer were evident throughout his distinguished public sector career of 36 years.
"This first-class vessel to be named in his honour was designed and built in Henderson and will replace three ageing vessels currently in use in the Perth metropolitan area.
"The D K Coughran will be tasked with responding to marine mammal incidents, managing the commercial whale watching industry, and carrying out marine park, riverpark and island patrol duties."