Specific details of the cruise are formalized in the Pre-cruise Plan. Blank forms are provided to the Chief Scientist well in advance of the cruise, and they should be completed and returned to the Marine Superintendent at least three weeks prior to the departure date. It is advisable to consult the Executive Officer and Marine Superintendent during the detailed planning period. The pre-cruise plan and discussions with the operational and support staff are most important in that they serve to alert all concerned to the needs of the scientific program. Unusual requests, such as special equipment or technical support, should be brought up at the earliest possible time so that proper arrangements can be made.

The pre-cruise plan provides the best advance estimate as to the optimum way of solving certain scientific problems within a given time. It is, however, subject to change and indeed should be altered as appropriate in response to information gathered as the work proceeds. The Chief Scientist is authorized to make such modifications in consultation with the Captain. The one factor not usually subject to change is the total length of the cruise. If the Chief Scientist feels he has a persuasive reason for extending his cruise, he may make a request by radio to the Marine Superintendent. Every effort will be made to accommodate cruise changes, if our cruise schedule permits.