In the home port, the Marine Superintendent
and staff provide support services.
In other ports, an agent usually is
engaged to provide logistics and support
services. The names of agents will be
provided to Chief Scientists in advance
of the cruise, and you are encouraged
to make use of their services. They
provide assistance in port formalities,
such as customs and immigrations; arranging
fuel, provisions, stores, etc.; handling
shipments to and from the ship; making
hotel and airline reservations when
required. You are reminded that the
costs of tickets, stores, etc., bought
on behalf of the scientific party will
have to be reimbursed; the ship's operating
account is not permitted to absorb these
costs. The Marine Superintendent can
assist you in making use of these services
and in communicating with the agents.
Mail to persons on board ship can be
sent via the agent, who will hold it
for the ship's arrival. You are reminded
that many foreign ports do not have
special facilities or stores available,
such as bottled gases, chemicals, etc.,
therefore, special needs should be considered
well in advance.
