Before the Cruise

Our ships and crews spend a great deal of time at sea, but make frequent port calls. The average leg lasts two to four weeks; the average time in port is two to four days. Within the constraint of necessary work, every effort will be made to allow the crew members to go ashore and relax.

No specific dress is required aboard ship. Bring clothing suitable for the climate in which you will be sailing, and appropriate for the work you will be doing, including foul weather gear. Laundry facilities are provided on each vessel.

As there is no ship's store, you should bring enough toilet articles and other necessities to last until your next port call. Some toiletries are NOT available in some overseas ports and could be very expensive, plan accordingly.

Work aboard ship is considered hazardous, requiring the use of safety equipment such as protective footwear and glasses.

In case of emergency, the Port Office should be contacted at (508-289-2208). On weekends the switchboard (508-548-1400) will notify the Port Office Representative. Satellite telephone communication is usually available but expensive; you are encouraged to bring a prepaid phone card with you. Mail is frequently carried from the Port Office by the scientific staff or crew members joining the vessel. If you wish to have mail delivered to the ship, the correct address is: