INTRODUCTION:
Welcome aboard! The staff within the Fisheries and Ecosystems Monitoring
and Analysis Division (FEMAD) of the Northeast Fisheries Science Center have
prepared this manual to assist YOU, the first-time sailor, in participating
aboard the research
vessels ALBATROSS IV, DELAWARE II or special NOAA chartered Research
Vessels. This document should help to prepare you for what should prove
to be an exciting and educational experience at sea. It is meant to
answer most, if not all, questions you may have before and during your
participation on the cruise. However, if after your cruise you have
any information which you would like to add, please let us know!
Thank you and bon voyage!
CRUISE TYPES AND AREAS OF INVESTIGATION:
The Northeast Fisheries Science Center has conducted resource cruises
out of Woods Hole, Massachusetts, since 1885. Standard bottom trawl
surveys were initiated in the fall of 1963, and since 1968 have been
completed each spring and fall. Cruises to monitor shellfish resources
are conducted primarily for sea scallops and surf clams. Cruises
designed to complete other more specific research objectives
are also conducted. Examples of special cruises include, examination of
cod and haddock spawning activity, examination of the impact of pelagic
predators on the survival of larval cod and haddock, marine mammal
observation and plankton distribution trips. On all cruises,
oceanographic, as well as meteorological data are collected. The data
obtained from the standard trawl surveys are universally recognized as
the most scientifically valuable time series of fisheries related data
in the world.
The following is a brief description of the major surveys conducted by
FEMAD. When you receive your notice
explaining which cruise types and dates are available, look at the
following list to help you determine which survey may interest you.
Autumn and Spring Bottom Trawl Surveys:
Ongoing time series of standardized multi-species finfish surveys.
Besides species abundance data, these surveys routinely collect
biological data, such as maturity stages and food habits information.
Scales and otoliths are collected for age and growth studies.
Ichthyoplankton data is also collected in a piggyback mode on these
surveys. There are multiple parts covering each of the following areas
:
I. Mid-Atlantic inshore/offshore between New Jersey and
Cape Hatteras;
II. Mid-Atlantic inshore/offshore between New Jersey and
Southern New England;
III. George's Bank and;
IV. Gulf of Maine
Winter Trawl Survey:
A survey of winter populations of fishes was begun in 1992. The winter
survey targets summer (fluke) and yellowtail flounder. The
net used on this survey has much smaller rollers or "cookies" and tends
to catch more flatfish than the one used on the spring and autumn
surveys. There are two parts covering each of the following areas:
I. Mid-Atlantic inshore/offshore between New Jersey and Southern New
England;
II. Southern New England/Georges Bank.
Fishing Power Survey:
These are experiments designed to yield a correction factor
for changes in either survey equipment or vessels.
Surf Clam - Ocean Quahog Survey:
An ongoing survey of what has become a triennial series. Quantitative
data are collected from the following areas:
Part I. Virginia Capes/Mid-Atlantic;
Part II. Mid-Atlantic/Southern New England;
Part III. Southern New England/Georges Bank.
Scallop Survey:
An annual series of quantitative cruises to determine the distribution
and abundance of scallops. There are two parts covering each of the
following areas:
I. Cape Hatteras/Southern New England;
II. Southern
New England/Georges Bank.
Hydroacoustic Survey:
The primary objective of NEFSC fisheries acoustic surveys is to derive
fisheries independent abundance estimates for selected Northwest Atlantic
pelagic fish stocks. Species-specific abundance estimates are derived using
the multifrequncy EK500 echo-integration system. Survey design is typically
an adaptive systematic survey with targeted midwater trawl and underwater
video deployments to verify acoustic targets. Biological sample processing
(e.g., weigh, measure, age & growth samples, stomach contents, and special
requests) is completed on deck at each station. Omni-directional sonar data
is also continuously collected along the cruise track to provide information
on the spatial distributional patterns of fish. Fisheries acoustic surveys
often allocate a few days for site-specific experiments to investigate diel
variability in acoustic target strength relative to fish behavior or gear
performance tests.
VESSELS:
Ship TYPE BUILT LENGTH DISPLACES
ALBATROSS IV stern trawler 1963 187 ft 1000 tons
DELAWARE II stern trawler 1968 155 ft 600 tons
Both ships are based in Woods Hole.
Occasionally, NOAA uses private or academically supported research
vessels for specific studies. Information on these vessels will be
provided by the Chief Scientist whenever appropriate.
The research vessels are operated by the National Ocean Service's
(NOS) division of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration
(NOAA). The ships communicate with the Woods Hole Lab via electronic
and voice communications systems daily.
E-mail addresses:
Scientists are given a sequential number and their own email account (i.e. scientist1.albatross@noaa.gov)
so just wait until you get aboard and can
send an email back with the proper address.
Ship-to-shore
personal
communication, though expensive, is available via cellular or satellite
phone. Important messages, however, may be forwarded through Woods Hole
via Dr. Russell Brown (508)495-2380 or the Port Captain's office (508)495-2236.
Ship's progress can usually be monitored daily by checking the respective
vessel's home pages.
Staterooms aboard the ALBATROSS IV accommodate three scientists, with
two staterooms sharing a common bathroom ("HEAD", nautical term) with
shower; on the DELAWARE II, two or four scientists share a room and a
head. Linens (sheets and a pillowcase, soap, towels and face cloths,
pillows and blankets), are provided on all vessels. It should be noted
that the pillows are feather and the blankets are government-issue
wool. Because of allergies or personal preference, some people choose
to bring their own pillows and/or blankets/sleeping bags/towels. There are
removable rails in the closets which mount on the bunks for rough
weather sleeping safety. One more hint: head/shower floors are cold
cement. Flip flops make this more bearable.
Stateroom assignments are made to minimize traffic due to alternating
"watches", or shifts. When you go on watch, you should take everything
you will need with you. A backpack or other bag is something you may want to
bring to carry books, an extra set of clothing, walkman, etc... You will
not be allowed to enter your room while members of the opposite watch are
sleeping. Also, please keep in mind that when you are up, others are sleeping;
keep noise in all passageways to a minimum. An often overlooked problem is noise
resulting from items not securely stowed in drawers and closets - the ship's
motion will cause loose objects to roll or bang around. Please stow your gear
and personal items with this in mind.
Individual ship's rules vary; they are usually addressed during a brief
meeting once the vessel is underway or posted in a prominent location.
As government vessels, the ships prohibit gambling, alcohol, use of
illegal drugs, and sexual liaison. All vessels conduct emergency drills
once a week. You must report to your life-boat or fire station (the
location is posted on billets in the passageways) wearing a hat, sturdy
footwear (NO open-toed shoes), long-sleeved shirt, pants, your life jacket,
and carrying your exposure suit. All cruise participants will be expected to
try on their exposure suits during a drill as the ship leaves the harbor. If
you have any questions about shipboard regulations or protocol, ask your Watch
Chief or Chief Scientist.
PRIOR TO SAILING DAY:
Volunteers should expect to be contacted by the Chief Scientist or his
or her representative regarding your cruise the week prior to scheduled
sailing. If no contact has been made by the Friday prior to sailing,
you should try to contact a representative from the investigation
sponsoring the cruise. They will verify the ship's departure time and
answer any other questions you may have.
HOW TO GET HERE:
If coming from a great distance, you may want to arrive the day before
and spend the night aboard the ship. You should arrange this in advance
so that the ship is expecting you. Check in with the night watchman and you
will be shown to your cabin which is one deck below the main deck. Your
name will be posted on the door. If you are staying on the ship, you
will be served breakfast and lunch on sailing day but no dinner the night
prior to sailing.
Woods Hole, Massachusetts is a seaside village located on a small
peninsula of Cape Cod between Buzzards Bay and Vineyard Sound. The closest
airports are T.F. Green serving Warwick/Providence and Logan Airport in
Boston. Flights into Green Airport are generally less expensive than Logan
so you may want to do comparison shopping. There
are bus connections from both Providence and Boston. The Woods Hole bus
depot it is a short walk (approximately 1/4 mile) from the laboratory and
ships. The bus
schedule
varies by season; for current schedule and fares,
phone the bus station directly at (508)548-7588.
If you are renting a vehicle, your closest drop off point is Falmouth (4
miles from Woods Hole). You can take theWhoosh Trolley or a taxi to Woods
Hole. The Whoosh Trolley operates seven days a week from the end of May
through Labor Day and charges a fee of $1 per ride. On a daily basis, it runs
between the Falmouth Mall and the aquarium at the Northeast Fishery Science
Center every half hour between 9:30 A.M. and 10:30 P.M.
If you are driving; there are many highways that connect to Cape Cod:
From Boston: Follow Route 93 South to Route 3 South. Cross over the
Sagamore Bridge and take the first exit immediately over the bridge. Go
through the blinking light and at the bottom of the off-ramp will be a
stop-light. Go left at the lights onto Route 6A West. Follow Route 6A
West until you come to a rotary. Take the third right off of the rotary
onto Route 28 South. Continue with the directions from the Bourne
Bridge.
From Providence: Follow Route 195 East to Route 25 toward Cape Cod. Go
over the Bourne Bridge and take the second right off of the rotary onto
Route 28 South. Continue with the directions from the Bourne Bridge.
From Worcester: Follow Route 495 South to the Bourne Bridge. Continue
over the bridge and follow the directions from the Bourne Bridge.
From the Mass Pike (Route 90): Take the Mass Pike East to exit 11B.
Follow Route 495 South to the Bourne Bridge. Continue over the bridge
and follow the directions from the Bourne Bridge.
From the Bourne Bridge Rotary: Follow Route 28 South, through another
Rotary (Otis rotary) and into the town of Falmouth (approximately 15
miles). Continue through a set of stop-lights. About mile past the
lights, Route 28 will split to the left DO NOT GO LEFT. Instead,
continue straight to the flashing yellow light and bear sharply right
onto Woods Hole road. Follow Woods Hole road until the end and then
bear to the right onto Water Street. Follow Water Street to the end
(approximately mile). The National Marine Fisheries Service is on the
left at 166 Water Street.
If you drive to Woods Hole, you will be instructed where to leave your
vehicle while you are at sea. Be sure to obtain a "Visitors" parking pass from the
switchboard operator in the Lobby of the Main Building. The keys to your
vehicle must be left in the Port Office, in case the vehicle needs to be
moved while you are away.
SAILING DAY:
Report to the Resource Survey Investigation by 0900 the day of sailing
and locate your Chief Scientist. This allows ample time to procure foul-weather
gear, process paperwork, and attend the pre-cruise meeting. If you work
at the Woods Hole Lab, you should pick up your foul weather gear the
Friday afternoon before sailing; this will help minimize sailing day
activity.
Sailing time is usually 1400 hr (2:00 PM), with all scientific
personnel required to be on board one hour prior to sailing. Once you
have arrived you may be asked to help load some of the scientific
equipment or lend a hand in the preparation for departure. It should be
noted that ships are complex and require a lot of equipment and
instruments to operate safely and efficiently. Therefore, schedules
can be difficult to meet exactly; one should be prepared for delays and
possible schedule changes.
THE PEOPLE:
The ALBATROSS IV is commanded by NOAA Corps officers and crewed by
civilians, while the DELAWARE II is crewed by civilians and commanded
by both NOAA Corps officers and civilians. Total crew members for the
ALBATROSS IV numbers 23, with a scientific complement of 14; the
DELAWARE II accommodates 14 scientists in addition to its crew of 18.
Most of the scientific party, including the Chief Scientist and Watch
Chiefs, is made up of NOAA/NMFS biologists who spend time at sea as
part of their jobs. You and other volunteer scientists comprise the
remainder. The Chief Scientist is responsible for the scientific
operations (how and where sampling occurs). The chain of command then
goes to the two Watch Chiefs whose responsibilities include, among many
others, the smooth conduct of each watch, and the accurate entry of
data on the trawl logs. The Captain or Commanding Officer is
responsible for safely operating and navigating the vessel. All other
NOAA officers and non-deck crew are under his command. Out on deck, the
Lead Fisherman is in charge of the deck crew and operation of all of
the fishing gear and machinery.
WORK SCHEDULE:
The scientific work schedule consists of four six-hour shifts or
"watches" conducted around the clock 7 days a week. The "day" watch
works from 0600 to noon and from 1800 to midnight; the "night" watch is
on duty from midnight to 0600 and from noon to 1800. Off-watch time is
your own; people read, write, exercise, sunbathe, sleep, or do laundry.
The ALBATROSS IV, being larger, has more exercise equipment (weight
machine and bicycle) as well as a lounge containing numerous books and
magazines whereas the DELAWARE II has only a stationary bike and a
small lounge/conference room. Both ships possess color televisions and
video cassette recorders, and movies are shown daily. Sleeping
scientists are issued wake-up calls 20 minutes before meals are served
or your presence is required on deck. It is expected and appreciated
that you show up on deck prior to your official starting time. It is a
courtesy to relieve the working watch a few minutes early if possible.
MEALS:
Meals are served as follows: breakfast from 0515 to 0615, lunch from
1115 to 1215, and dinner from 1715 to 1815. You eat when you are off
watch. The day watch, for example, eats breakfast and dinner before
going out on deck, and lunch after completing their 0600-1200 watch.
The meals aboard all vessels are excellent; several choices of entrees
are available and vegetarian diets are accommodated if the galley is
informed of your preference prior to sailing. In addition, snacks,
fresh fruits, soups, sandwich fixings, and beverages (coffee, tea,
juices, milk, cocoa) are available around the clock. On the ALBATROSS
IV there is a soda machine. The meals are served cafeteria-style.
A few rules regarding the mess area and galley protocol:
- Foul-weather gear should never be worn in the galley or
mess area, not even for a quick cup of coffee.
- In summer, shirts and footwear must be worn at all times
in mess area.
- Caps, hats, swimsuits and tank tops should not be worn
in mess area.
- On all vessels, scientists are expected to clear their
dishes and silverware from table after meals.
- Silverware and plates used for sandwiches, snacks, etc.
should not be removed from mess area, and should be washed after use.
- Return all coffee and drink cups to the galley when finished.
- Lingering in the mess area after eating is discourteous
to those waiting to eat or to the mess attendant waiting to clean up.
- The scientists are expected to eat in their designated section of the
mess.
WORK ON DECK:
The work on deck will vary depending on the mission of your particular
cruise; since most of our volunteers and first-timers participate on
bottom trawl surveys, the work associated with these cruises will serve
as our model of on-deck activity. The work routine will be outlined at
the pre-cruise meeting. Demonstrations of stomach content analysis,
scale and otolith removal, and the operation of hydrographic and gear
monitoring equipment will be given once the ship is underway.
Throughout the cruise the ship will be following a pre-charted cruise
track defined by the locations of particular "stations". As the ship
arrives at each station, the trawl net is released and towed for 30
minutes. (The scallop dregde is towed for 15 minutes, while the clam dredge
is towed for 5 minutes). Once the trawl is hauled back, the ship starts to
steam to the
next station and all members of the working watch assemble on deck in
their foul-weather gear ready to work. No one is allowed on deck
without a hard-hat when machinery is operating. Once the cod-end (the
very end of the net) is emptied into the fish sorting box (checker) and
the boom snatch of the net is secured, the watch members congregate at
the checker to sort the catch. (Scallop catches are emptied onto the deck so
be prepared to spend time on your knees - we provide cushions to kneel on.
Clam catches are emptied into a sorting box). The catch is sorted by species into
5-gallon pails or 2 bushel baskets, depending on sizes
and quantities.
It may take a while for first-timers to gain familiarity with fish
identifications or other assignments. This is expected by the
experienced staff, so first-timers should not be overly concerned.
Don't be afraid to ask questions of your Watch Chief or the other watch
members regarding procedures or fish identification. After the catch is
sorted, it is brought to the work area for weighing and measuring. (The
scallop and clam cruises do not require baskets being weighed, but the shells
are measured and scrubbed clean, in addition to any special sampling). Do
not lift or carry heavy baskets yourself - get help! The motion of the
ship during rough weather can make work on deck hazardous - work
carefully! After all pails and baskets are weighed, the fish are
measured.
While calling out weight and lengths to the person recording
the data, speak clearly and loudly to be heard above the ship's noise.
If you are recording and cannot hear or understand the person examining
the fish (referred to as a "cutter") ask them to repeat what they have
said. At this point, biological sampling is conducted on certain
species: otoliths are removed from selected fishes' heads, and stomach
cavities are cut open to examine gut contents, sex and maturity stages.
No fish are to be discarded until the Watch Chief instructs you to do so.
After biological sampling is completed, the checker and work area are
cleaned up and resupplied for the next tow. (On scallop and clam cruises,
be prepared to shovel the pile of debris overboard, once the shellfish are
picked from it).
If stations are located close together and biological sampling
requirements are substantial, it is possible that most of the six hour
watch is spent standing out on deck. Usually, however, there will be
some "steaming" time between stations, and a chance for the scientists
to grab a coffee and a few minutes off their feet. Occasionally large
parts of watches are spent steaming; you should bring along books,
games, music, schoolwork, knitting, etc., to help fill in spare time.
These items should be brought with you when you come on watch and not
retrieved from staterooms when others are sleeping.
In the event of extreme weather (high winds, large seas, hurricane) the ship
will either come into the nearest port or jog (ride bow into the seas) until
the seas calm down. The Captain makes this decision based on conditions,
expected duration of the event and proximity of land in order to ensure the
safety of personnel and the ship.
On the steam back to Woods Hole, all areas used by the scientific crew
must be thoroughly cleaned. Foul-weather gear is also usually washed at
this time. Staterooms and heads must be cleaned and will be inspected
by the Chief Scientist and a ship's officer. The ship usually arrives around
7 A.M. but be aware that this time may be pushed back, so your travel plans
should be flexible. Upon docking, scientists are dismissed after all the
scientific samples and survey equipment have been off-loaded and stored.
SEASICKNESS:
One of the least pleasant aspects of going to sea is the possibility of
seasickness. An individual's susceptibility to seasickness is highly
variable. If you've experienced motion sickness in cars, planes, or
amusement park rides, you may experience seasickness during the cruise.
Regardless, most people feel some level of illness or discomfort when
they first go to sea.
Seasickness is a result of a conflict in the inner ear (where the human
balance mechanism resides) caused by the erratic motion of the ship
through the water. Inside the cabin of a rocking boat, for example, the
inner ear detects changes in linear and angular acceleration as the
body bobs with the boat. But since the cabin moves with the passenger,
the eyes register a relatively stable scene. Agitated by this
perceptual incongruity, the brain responds with a cascade of
stress-related hormones that can ultimately lead to nausea and
vomiting.
Its effect can be magnified by strong smells (like diesel fumes or
fish, which are part of daily life at sea). It usually occurs in the
first 12-24 hours after sailing, and dissipates when the body becomes
acclimated to the ship's motion (getting one's "sea-legs"). Rarely does
anyone stay ill beyond the first couple of days at sea, regardless of
sea state. There are several over-the-counter medications available to
prevent or minimize motion sickness. These are usually taken about an
hour before sailing and as needed at sea; you should of course follow
the instructions for the particular medication you are taking. All of
these medications tend to dehydrate the body, so fluid intake is
important.
If you should get seasick, take comfort in the fact that recovery is
only a matter of time, and the survival rate is 100%. Each ship has a
trained medical officer who can treat severe cases of sea-sickness.
However, all that is usually required for a complete recovery is some
sensible eating/drinking and some patience. Here are a few tips and
considerations regarding seasickness:
- Vomiting offers relief. Make an effort to continue eating items like
crackers, dry toast, dry cereal, etc. (avoid anything greasy, sweet, or
hard to digest). Keeping something in your stomach suppresses nausea,
or, if vomiting, eliminates painful "dry heaves". Antacid tablets help
some people.
- Maintain fluids. Seasickness and related medications cause
dehydration and headaches. Try to drink juices low in acidity, clear
soups, or water, and stay away from milk or coffee.
- Keep working. Most people find that being busy on deck keeps their
minds off their temporary discomfort. Also, the fresh air out on deck
is often enough to speed recovery. Anyway, you won't be allowed to stay
in your bunk during your watch.
- Carry a plastic bag. This simple trick allows some peace of mind and
eliminates some of the panic of getting sick. Do not vomit in sinks or
trash cans. If you vomit "over the side", be aware of which way the
wind and waves are coming. Going to the "lee" will ensure that an
unpleasant experience doesn't become any more unpleasant.
- Above all, don't be embarrassed or discouraged! If you get sick,
chances are that others are sick too! No one -- fishermen, ship's
officers, scientists -- is immune to seasickness.
STRESS AT SEA:
The Northeast Fisheries Science Center commissioned a psychologist and
nutritionist to examine problems related to stress at sea. Several
observations and suggestions came out of their findings.
The "6 on 6 off" watch schedule was identified as a source of stress
and possible sleeping disorders for some people. Although it is
possible to get the same amount of sleep during a cruise as on land, it
is an interrupted sleep (an interesting note: many people claim that
they have many more dreams when they are at sea. This is because their
sleep is interrupted prior to coming out of the dream state). There are
also factors such as ship noise, ship motion, and the necessity to
sleep after eating large meals that contribute to increasing fatigue.
Individuals who have trouble sleeping might consider some of the
following:
- Use ear plugs or eye shades to eliminate ship's noise
and daytime light levels as sleep-robbing stimuli.
- In rough seas, use your life preserver to "wedge"
yourself against your bunk rail to avoid being tossed around.
- Exercise to dissipate tension and relax muscles, but not
immediately before retiring.
- Pay attention to your diet; proteins (meats, fish, eggs, etc.) are
harder to digest and should not be eaten prior to sleep. Carbohydrates
(spaghetti, pancakes, oatmeal, etc.) can be more easily digested while
sleeping, and make a better pre-sleep meal. Also, avoidance of
caffeine- containing substances might promote sleep.
Although the benefits of a well-balanced, nutritious diet and regular
exercise are well known, it was suggested that people refrain from
initiating weight-loss diets or exercise programs at sea (maintenance
of established programs is, of course, encouraged!). An additional
suggestion is to bring treats (soda, candy, or gum, for example) along
to minimize the sense of deprivation of creature comforts that may
occur. The Albatross IV maintains a ship's store which sells candy, popcorn,
and clothing with the ship's logo. There is also a soda machine aboard.
Often stress at sea centers around human relations. Two or three weeks
at sea working intensely with a small group of people under difficult
conditions can often lead to conflict and tension. Communication is
often the solution; the Chief Scientist and Watch Chiefs are there to
assist and referee. Talk things out rather than letting them fester
inside. A final consideration regarding stress at sea: as with
seasickness, stressful situations are temporary and are a part of life
at sea. Many people find that dealing with and overcoming stress is a
stimulating and rewarding part of their sea-going experience.
WHAT TO BRING:
At this point, you probably already have a good idea of what
to bring to sea with you. The following is not intended to be a
complete list, but it may serve to summarize the more essential
items.
Clothing:
Foul-weather gear, a.k.a. rain gear, (jacket, bib-overalls, and boots) is
provided, as are gloves and glove liners. It is your responsibility to
obtain your foul-weather gear the day of sailing from the Resource Surveys
Branch (gloves will be issued at sea). When selecting gear, keep in
mind that you will have to fit heavy clothing or two pairs of socks
under your foul weather gear, for warmth during cold weather. This
equipment must be signed out, and returned intact and CLEAN.
As far as personal clothing is concerned, old or used work clothes
should be worn - the work can get messy. The amount of clothing worn
will depend upon the season, but temperatures over the open water are
usually much cooler than on land, and nights cooler still. No matter
what the season, its best to wear layers. That way you are prepared for
a wide range of temperatures. In addition, the wind is always blowing -
anything from a light breeze to a real blow. Sweatshirts, down vests,
thermal underwear and warm socks are common dress items.
A few tips:
- A lot of time is spent climbing in and out of your
boots. Slip-on (versus tie) shoes will save you time and energy. Clogs are
permitted footwear.
- Hats MUST be worn during ship emergency drills, so bring
one along.
- Each ship has laundry facilities, and detergent is
provided. Being able to do laundry may help you decide how much clothing to
pack. However, during heavy weather the washers and dryers may be secured,
so you may not always be able to do laundry.
- There is limited storage space in staterooms; duffel
bags are preferred over bulky suitcases.
Toilet items:
Salt water, sun, and wind combine to create a harsh and
drying environment for human skin and hair. Skin lotion, lip balm or
chapstick, sun block or tanning lotion, and hair conditioner should
find their way into the sea-bags of those who are sensitive to the
elements. On the southern cruises during warm weather, insect repellent
is something handy to have. The ships' medical lockers are
well-supplied, but you may wish to bring along aspirin, etc. If you are
taking any sort of medication, or have any medical condition, you
should inform the medical officer upon sailing. Also, be sure to bring
along an adequate supply of your medication.
P.S. Don't forget your toothbrush!!
Miscellaneous items:
There are so many beautiful things to
see: whales, dolphins, sea-birds, sunsets, etc. You might want
to bring binoculars, your camera and plenty of film. Many volunteers and
first timers document the survey routine and trawl operations for future
slide presentations. Both ships have homepages and we would be glad to
accept any photographs you might want to contribute from your cruise.
Contact NEFSC.Webmaster@noaa.gov if you wish to donate any photos.
Summer cruises mean sunbathing -- chaise lounges, air mattresses,
and beach towels are often brought along (ship's linen
or blankets are NOT to be used on deck!!). Flip-flops MUST NOT be
worn outside of your stateroom for safety reasons. A common practice
is the collection of fish and invertebrate specimens for school
or personal collections. This is encouraged as long as it does
not conflict with priority sampling. However, collectors must
provide their own jars and preservative (in an unbreakable
container). If you plan to bring any chemicals along, you must
notify the Chief Scientist beforehand and supply a Material Safety Data
Sheet (MSDS) prior to the cruise. In the event of an unexpected port call or
ship delay, you may want to bring extra money to go sightseeing or
shopping, etc.
We hope that this potpourri of information and hints will
help you prepare logistically and mentally for your adventure at
sea. If you have additional questions, feel free to contact us
here in the Resource Surveys Branch at (508)495-2000. We hope
that your experience will be a positive and educational one.
Happy Sailing!!!!
Please help us make this a better manual by contributing
your comments or suggestions upon your return.
How To Volunteer
If you have any further questions or comments, or if you are interested
in volunteering for a cruise, please contact:
Katherine Sowers
NMFS
166 Water Street
Woods Hole, MA
Internet: katherine.sowers@noaa.gov
Phone: 508-495-2342
Visiting Woods Hole via the internet:
The National Marine Fisheries Service's Northeast Fisheries Science
Center as well as its parent organizations and the Woods Hole
community, maintain extensive internet sites. If you have internet
access and would like to learn more about our organization and Woods
Hole in general, the following addresses provide a few places to get
you started.
Page maintained by: Kevin.McIntosh@noaa.gov
