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.