The McARTHUR conducts oceanographic research and assessments, primarily throughout the area of the Exclusive Economic Zone of the Pacific Coast of the United States. The 175-foot ship engages in measurements of chemical, meteorological, and biological sampling for several large scale programs within NOAA. The majority of the McARTHUR's work is done in several of the National Marine Sanctuaries on the west coast of the United States. The vessel is operated by NOAA Marine and Aviation Operations (NMAO), and is home ported at NOAA's Marine Operations Center, Pacific (MOP), in Seattle, Washington.

The ship is named after William Pope McArthur.

The McARTHUR carries a complement of 6 officers, 17 crew members and up to 13 scientists. The scientists who carry out research aboard the McARTHUR come from many divisions of NOAA, as well as other Federal and state government agencies, and academia. Follow the wide range of studies these scientists will conduct while onboard the McARTHUR this field season, from supporting the Sustainable Seas Expedition, to participating in two new marine mammal surveys in the Eastern Pacific called: CHase Encirclement Stress Studies (CHESS) and Oregon, California, Washington (ORCAWALE) project in support of protected species research efforts.

McARTHUR in Miraflores Locks during
their Panama Canal Transit.

McARTHUR's Telephone Numbers