Cruise Preparation | Berthing and Messing

Berthing is available normally for a scientific party of eleven. Assignment of berthing for the scientific party is the responsibility of the Chief Scientist (Berthing Plan). Bed linens and towels are provided in each cabin. If you require more during the cruise, the linen lockers are below decks and on the 01 deck.

The ship carries one Steward and one Cook, so both meal service and housekeeping are "do it yourself." It is the responsibility of the Chief Scientist to assure that all spaces, living and laboratory, used by his party are kept in safe and clean condition during the cruise. These spaces must be cleaned and left in good shape for the on-coming party at the end of each cruise.

Meal hours are posted in the mess room, and are ordinarily as follows:

Breakfast: 0730 - 0830
Lunch: 1130 - 1230
Dinner: 1730 - 1830

Persons are required to wear a shirt and shoes in the mess room, bathing suits are not permitted.  Be considerate of others, and come to meals as clean and neat as possible.

Please do not wait until the last minute to eat.  If operational factors (such as being on station) make it impossible for some of the scientific party to eat on schedule, notify the cook in advance so that arrangements can be made to accommodate the situation. Meals are self-service. A reasonable choice of food is provided; take all you want, but eat all you take. After you have finished eating, promptly clean and clear your space so that another may sit. Clean the plates and utensils you have used and leave them in the sink. Always separate your garbage. There are containers for plastic in the mess and the main lab. Use the trash compactor in the main lab for plastics. No plastic is to be thrown over the side. The Galley Staff eats after everyone else, so please be courteous. A night lunch will be left on the serving counter and in the small refrigerator beneath it. Do not enter the Galley or pantry. Those with special food problems, such as allergies or dietary restrictions, should consult the Marine Superintendent well in advance of the cruise; there is only a limited capability to cope with special cases.

SANITARY FACILITIES

Clothes washing and drying are available but limited; you should bring enough clothes appropriate for your work and the weather, to last at least a week. Do not use the washer in heavy weather.

While getting dirty is inevitable during the scientific work, remember that in the crowded shipboard environment, cleanliness of your person and clothes is important. Normal hygiene practices should be maintained.

WATER SUPPLY

The water supply, while adequate for usual needs, is not unlimited and should be conserved as best you can, whenever you can. Shower without having the water running continuously, and only operate the washing machine with a full load.