Section I, Ship & Ship's Equipment

(a) General Characteristics

Length: 177 feet (54 m)  
Draft: 19.0 feet (5.8 m)  
Displacement: 960 LT  
Range: 7,000 NM  
Laboratories: 1,185 sq. feet  
Speed: 11.0 knots crusing  
Endurance: 30 days  
Fuel Capacity: 51,000 gallons  
Beam: 33 feet ( 10 m)  
Gross Tons: 260.68 T  
Deck Area: 2,150 sq. feet  
     
Main Engine: One EMD diesel engine, 3,000 SHP  
Bow Thruster: White Gill 350 HP trainable  
     
Ship Service Generators: Two 300 KW 480 VAC  
  3-phase, 60 hertz  
     
Propeller: Single screw, controllable pitch,  
  Kort steering nozzle  
     
Winches: Dynacon Deep Sea Winch Full Ocean Depth 9/16" Bare spool
    available for .680EM or .681FO cable
  Markey Desh-5 Full Ocean Depth .322 EM cable
  Markey Comm-15 3,000 meters of .322 EM cable
     
Heavy Equipment: Crane - hydraulic, 30,000 lb. capacity (chart below)
  Stern A-frame (Capacities below)  
  Midships hydro boom  
     
Sewage System: Two holding tanks; 12,000 gallon capacity  
Crew: 12  
Marine Technician: 1 (Under policies established by funding agencies and OSU-CEOAS, one Marine Technician is required onboard Oceanus for each cruise.)
Scientist: 13 (four additional, pending availabilty of berthing van)
Owner: National Science Foundation  
Operator: Oregon State University  
  College of Earth, Ocean, and Atmospheric Sciences  
     
Built: 1975, mid-life in 1994  
Home Port: Newport, Oregon  
     

(b) Services

  • (i) Electrical Power

    All electrical power on the ship is generated as 480VAC at 60 cycles. The voltage and frequency are precisely regulated at the generator units. All laboratory spaces are provided with numerous 120VAC electrical outlets on 20 amp and limited 30 amp circuits. 480VAC outlets on 30 amp circuits are available on the weather decks and in all laboratory spaces. 220 VAC at 60 amp power is also available.

    UPS Systems are not provided on the Oceanus, science parties with sensitive equipment should provide their own marine rated full sine wave dual conversion UPSs (or other model as deemed appropriate for protection of their equipment in a marine environment. Although every attempt is made to provide the best possible power to the science party, the nature of the operating environment is such that spikes, surges, and undervoltage conditions cannot be fully prevented and science equipment should be appropriately connected so as to minimize the impact of such events on the efficient execution of science mission goals.

  • (ii) Air Conditioning/Heating

    All internal spaces on Oceanus are temperature and humidity controlled by a centralized air conditioning and heating system.

  • (iii) Fresh Water and Sinks

    The Main Lab and Wet Lab have hot and cold fresh water outlets conveniently positioned at sink locations. Two deep sinks are provided in the forward end of the Main Lab and one is located in the Wet Lab. The sinks drain directly into the scuppers, so acids and chemical wastes may not be disposed of in the sinks. Standard faucet/taps are provided at the sinks, as are garden hose fittings. Fresh water outlets with garden hose fittings are provided on the 01 Deck and at two locations on the Main Deck, which are readily accessible to work sites and to portable laboratory vans.

  • (iv) Salt Water

    Seawater from the ship's fire and sanitary system is available on the Main Deck and at the laboratory sink locations.

  • (v) Science Sea Water

    Science seawater is available in the Main Lab and the Wet Lab at sink locations. The sea suction is located in the bow of the ship approximately 3 meters below the surface. The pump is located adjacent to the intake, with a flow rate of approximately 50 gallons per minute. The pump impeller, pump casing, all piping and the filters are non-metallic. Dual filters to screen out large debris and seaweed are located on the discharge side of the pump. High sea states and bubble entrapment at the bow can cause the discharge to become aerated. A debubbler is permanently installed for the Wet Lab system. To avoid backpressure and to assure continuous flushing, the discharge has full flow overboard and the user taps into the flow as needed.

  • (vi) Deionized Water

    A Millipore Milli-Q Advantage 10 distilled water deionizer unit is located in the forward end of the Main Laboratory. The water source for the deionizing filter unit is distilled water pumped directly from the ship's evaporator and stored in a 100-gallon stainless steel head tank located on the boat deck (O-1 level).

  • (vii) Compressed Air

    Compressed air is available in all deck and laboratory spaces at nominal 125 psi.

(a) Communications

(i) Communications equipment

Oceanus is provided with communications equipment including:

  • Medium Frequency/High Frequency (MF/HF), single side band (SSB), 1,000 watt Harris RF3200 transceiver with Necode decoder and SITOR (commercial packet radio) capability.
  • Two VHF/FM marine band transceivers.
  • SeaTel 6006 KU band Satellite communications for Internet access supported by HiSeasNet (http://hiseasnet.ucsd.edu)
  • Fleet Broadband Thrane and Thrane Sailor 500 Voice and Internet access backup
  • Cellular, Telular cell base station integrated with the ships PABX system.
  • A complete Global Marine Distress Signaling System (GMDSS) including the following Furuno equipment:
    • 2 FM-8500 VHF DSC Transceivers
    • 1 DMC-5 Distress Message Controller
    • 1 NX-500 Navtex Receiver
    • 1 FS-1562-25 250 watt MF/HF SSB Transceiver
    • 1 DSC-60 Watch Receiver
    • 1 Felcom 12 Inmarsat-C Unit
    • 1 DPC Narrow Band Direct Printing Teletype Unit
    • 2 Terminal/Printer Units

(ii) Intercom/Telephone

A phone exchange is also installed on the ship. Telephones are located on the Bridge, the communications center, all laboratories, the galley, and in the Master's, Chief Engineer's and Chief Scientist's staterooms. The telephones can be used for internal communication at sea. While tied up at the OSU pier in Newport, the PABX provides access to the local shore telephone line. Cell and Iridium can be accessed through telephones on the PABX system. Fleet Broad Band communication system is available with notice to Master or Marine Superintendent.

(b) Benches

Benches are provided in the Main Lab and in the Wet Lab for the general use of scientists. Standard benches are 8 feet long x 32 inches wide x 36 inches high. Benches are permanently mounted along the bulkheads. Additional freestanding benches of the standard size are available to be positioned in the labs to meet the needs of individual projects. Customized benches can be provided as needed. Each bench unit is fitted with a full storage shelf below.

(c) Tie-downs

All laboratory and deck spaces are provided with a means of securing equipment at sea, known collectively as tie-downs. Laboratory decks are fitted with 3/8" bolt receptors located on 2 ft. x 2 ft. centers. All overhead and bulkhead surfaces are equipped with "Unistrut" channels on 2 ft. centers. The external working decks surfaces are fitted with flush stainless steel 1" bolt receptors on 2 ft. x 2 ft. centers. The ship will provide all bolts, chain, eye-bolts, chain binders, aircraft straps and specialized fittings for securing science equipment. Welding to the ship's structure is not permitted anywhere on the vessel. If welding is required to properly secure a piece of equipment, steel plates will be bolted in place and the welding can be done to the plates.

(d) Deck Areas

Oceanus is designed and constructed to maximize the external working deck area available for the placement and carrying of transient scientific equipment. Two deck areas, the Main Deck and the Upper (01) Deck, are dedicated to science use. These deck areas comprise the entire after part of the ship. The starboard side of the Main Deck of the ship is unobstructed for 84 feet from the stern forward. The aftermost 34 feet of the fantail spans the entire breadth of the ship. Pertinent particulars of the weather deck spaces are:

  • Main Deck: 1,600 sq. ft.
  • Upper Deck: 500 sq. ft.
  • The total allowable transient scientific payload is 40 tons. Most users of the ship do not approach this value. The Master will evaluate the distribution of all weights aboard the ship to assure that safe stability conditions will exist during the voyage.
  • The ship's crane serves all working deck spaces and points over the side.
  • All bulwarks, railings and fittings on the after part on the ship are removable.
  • There is direct access by ladder between the decks. There is direct access to the internal laboratory spaces from the working deck areas.
  • It is possible to put a maximum of three 8 ft. x 20 ft. laboratory vans on the ship. Two vans may be carried on the Upper (01) Deck, keeping the Main Deck area clear for stowing and handling of instruments. Peck & Hale fittings are recessed into the Upper Deck at fixed locations to facilitate rapid securing of two such vans. Additional mounting plates may be required.

All deck areas are illuminated by Halogen floodlights mounted on the mast. Localized spotlights are placed to light normal and overside work areas at points where instruments are launched. Low intensity deck lighting is provided on the deck areas.

(e) Winches and Wire

(i) Overview

Oceanus is outfitted with two Starboard deploying small .322 EM wire winches and one aft/stern deploying large wire winch. All of which are used to lower scientific instrumentation over the side. The winches are configured to operate UNOLS standard hydrographic wire, 3-conductor electro-mechanical cable, trawl wire and fiber optic cable. If the permanent winches and wire options listed below do not meet the specific needs a portable winch from the winch pool http://winchpool.whoi.edu/ can be requested with sufficient pre-cruise notice.

(ii) Hydro/CTD Winches

The vessel is outfitted with two winches which serve both hydrographic and E/M applications.

Winch particulars
Model: Markey DESH-5 Markey COM-15
Power: Electric, 480V, 60 HP Electric, 15 HP
Rated Line Pull:

10,954 lbs. bare drum

5,000 lbs. full drum

 
Average Working Speed: 60-75 m/min depending on load and use  
Wire capacity: 10,000 m max of .322" E-M cable 5,000 m max of .322" E-M cable

The DESH-5 winch has interchangeable drums that allow changing of cable type without a spooling operation. Drum changes take several hours using the ship's crane. Except in emergency situations this task is done in port.

The COM-15 and DESH-5 winches are located on the O1 Level. An extendable hydrographic boom mounted at the 02 Deck level amidships serves as the overboarding point. The boom is sited so that instruments can be launched over the starboard side at the point of least vessel motion, with protection from wind and boarding seas, and with direct access to the Wet Laboratory. The winches (and hydro boom) are operated by a crewmember from a station on the 01 Deck with a clear view of the winch, the main deck work area and over the side.

The cable is led directly from the winch to a fairlead sheave mounted at the base of the boom and then directly to the head block mounted at the end of the boom. Both sheaves have a tread diameter of 19". In service the cable plumbs to a point 6-7 feet outboard of the rail. When fully retracted, the boom plumbs the cable 4 feet inboard of the rail and 8 feet aft of the Wet Lab doors. The head block has an unobstructed vertical clearance to the Main Deck of 19.5 feet.

Sensors for the cable monitoring system are mounted in the fairlead sheave. Cable parameters of line count, line speed and tension are monitored, recorded at 20 Hz and displayed in the Main Laboratory, at the winch control station and on the bridge. The ships PABX phone system, as well as VHF radio communication between laboratories, winch and the bridge is provided with hand sets or radio microphones.

Winch drums holding .322" E-M cable are equipped with slip ring assemblies for transmission of electrical signals from rotating drums. Cabling is

(iii) Deep Sea Winch

A traction-type, heavy-duty winch system serving as the ship's traditional trawl winch is located below decks aft in a dedicated space. The cable from this winch can be routed through the aft A-Frame for over the stern work, or to a block on the ships crane for work over the starboard side.

Winch particulars
Model: Dynacon Inc. Hydraulic Traction Winch
Power: Electric, AC-SCR/DC, 150 HP
Rated Line Pull:

50,000 lbs. static

42,000 lbs. continuous @ speed range: 0-30 m/min

10,000 lbs. continuous @ speed range: 0-122 m/min

Average Working Speed: 60 m/min @ 20,000 lbs.
Wire capacity:

9,200 meters of 9/16" wire rope

A bare drum is available for:

9,200 meters of 0.680" EM cable

9,200 meters of 0.681" fiber optic cable

Min. Cable Bend Diameter: 48 inches

This winch is designed to handle UNOLS standard 9/16", 3x19 trawl wire rope, UNOLS .680 EM armored cable and .681 armored fiber optic cable. Cable storage drums are interchangeable allowing the change of cable type without the need for a spooling operation. Drum changes take several hours using a shore crane which must be scheduled in advance and are done only in port. The only wire in inventory at OSU is the 9/16" 3X19 trawl wire. .680 EM and .681 FO cable will take a large lead-time to schedule if needed.

The traction winch system is composed of five basic components: the traction head pulling unit, the level-wind/guide device, the storage drum assembly, the electrical controller/hydraulic pump unit and the fairlead sheave assembly. All units except the fairlead sheave are located below decks. The storage drum is located under a deck hatch to facilitate drum changes. All instruments and attachments must be removed from the wire prior to passing through the sheave train.

In operation, the cable/wire is led from the storage drum (where it is stowed under low tension) to the level-wind/guide located immediately adjacent to the drum. It is then led directly to the traction head assembly, which is the main load bearing and pulling unit. Five wraps are taken on the dual-headed traction unit to transition from the low storage tension to the high working load. The cable is then led directly up to the fairlead sheave located on the 01 Deck aft of the ship's crane. The fairlead sheave is a universal flagging unit, which permits the cable to be led to any point on the weather deck. Typically the cable is led directly aft to the ship's stern "A" frame. The ship's crane may also be used as an overboarding support point; this requires an additional boom crutch, available on request.

Sensors for the cable monitoring system are mounted in the fairlead sheave. Cable parameters line count, line speed and tension are monitored and recorded at 20Hz by a dedicated digital system and displayed in the Main Laboratory, at the winch control station and on the bridge. Communication between laboratories, winch control and the bridge is provided. A closed circuit TV system monitors the winch with displays at the control station and on the bridge.

The winch is operated by a crewmember and can be controlled from a station located in the after end of the Main Laboratory adjacent to depth recorders and other scientific display units and with a clear view of the main deck work area. This allows the winch operator to be physically integrated into the team running the station.

(iv) Hydraulic "Tugger" Winch

The Pull Master PL2, hydraulic "Tugger" winch is rated for 2,204 pounds of pull on a bare drum, and 1,633 at a full drum. The "Tugger" is equipped with 150 feet of ¼ Amsteel Blue synthetic line used to transfer loads and for light weight operations as determined by the Marine Technician.

(f) Oceanographic Cables

All oceanographic cables aboard the Oceanus are annually lubricated with Grignard StranCore.

It is imperative that oceanographic cables be used in a responsible manner that does not compromise their availability to subsequent investigators. Cables are expensive and at times in short supply. Reasonable care must be taken to maintain their integrity and extend their useful life. Questions related to the use of cables should be directed to the Marine Operations Coordinator during cruise planning.

(ii) Notes, cautions, and restrictions to the use of cables:

  1. All wire and load handling equipment will follow the UNOLS Research Vessel Safety Standards Appendix A and B
    (https://www.unols.org/document/research-vessel-safety-standards-rvss-tenth-edition-july-2015)
  2. Cables are not to be loaded in excess of their safe working load. Caution must be exercised in lowering instruments which are heavy, entrap large volumes of water, or produce excessive hydrodynamic drag forces. This is particularly true when operating in moderate sea states or water depths greater than 4,000 meters.
  3. Cables will not be permitted to pass over sheaves, which are not properly sized (groove size and tread diameter) for that cable.
  4. In general, devices are not to be clamped onto any conducting cable. This is to prevent damage to conductors and their insulation.

(g) Cranes and Overboard Handling

  • (i) Crane

    ship's crane
    Ship's crane with test weight 3/2/13.

    Radius Along Side At Sea
    10 30000 25500
    15 30000 25000
    20 23530 20000
    25 18825 16000
    30 15350 13050
    35 11530 9800
    40 9060 7700
    45 7590 6450
    50 6470 5500
    55 5410 4600
    60 4530 2850

    Oceanus is fitted with a single Allied Marine Model TB 60-65 hydraulic marine crane. The crane is totally self-contained with the electrical controller, hydraulic power pack and operator station mounted on the crane or its pedestal. The crane is located on the upper deck on the centerline of the ship in a position that allows access to all working deck space, over the side and over the stern. The crane is fitted with one fixed boom (main shipper) and two extendable booms (crowds). The working radius of the crane ranges from 10 to 65 feet.

    The at-sea load rating ranges from a maximum of 40,000 lbs. to 6,890 lbs. fully extended. The dockside rating is somewhat higher. The figure below schematically shows the Safe Working Load curves over the range of possible working radiuses. The next chart overlays these working radiuses onto a plan view of the working deck areas of the ship. Used together, these figures can be used to determine the loads that can be lifted at various points on the ship and over the side. For unusually heavy load requirements or special operations, consult with Ship Operations for availability of blocks and rigging. Use of the crane at sea is limited primarily by the strength of the slewing or rotating mechanism.

    The slewing mechanism, although strengthened for use on a moving ship, is not capable of withstanding the potentially extreme side loading dynamic forces that can be caused by towing or pulling loads, or by the roll of the ship. There are no rigid guidelines for the use of the crane in this regard, but, in general, side loading producing a torque of 60,000 ft. lbs. (2,000 lbs. at a 30 foot radius or equivalent) should be avoided. Limits on crane use at sea are normally set by common sense and by good seamanship practices. For additional details on crane limitations please contact the ships Master.

    The crane is capable of serving as the overboarding point for cables or wire spooled on the Deepsea winch. The cable can be led from the Deepsea winch flag block directly to an overboarding sheave hung from the crane. The flag block will follow the motion of the crane as it is raised/lowered or rotated. Used in this configuration, instruments can be suspended and lowered over the starboard side when necessary. Operation in this mode requires that a special boom crutch be installed to support the boom and to absorb the forces caused by the working cable; prior arrangements for this equipment are necessary.

    (ii) Stern A-Frame

    A-Frame
    A-Frame

    A hydraulically powered A-frame is located at the stern on the centerline to serve as the overboarding and support point for instruments being towed astern of the ship. The main trawl block is normally hung from the A-frame. Pertinent characteristics are:

    Inside Horizontal Clearance 9 feet (2.7 m)
    Maximum Vertical Clearance 14 feet (4.2 m)
    Maximum Inboard Reach 6 feet (1.8 m)
    Maximum Outboard Reach 4 feet (1.2 m)
    Maximum Permissible Tension 23,000 lbs
    Maximum Dynamic Load 8,000 lbs
    Full Travel Time 48 seconds

    The Maximum Permissible Tension is based on the condition that the load be suspended from the center of the span and that the A-frame is fully extended and resting on its stops.

    The hydraulics are capable of lifting and moving the A-frame with a maximum suspended load of 8,000 lbs. This freedom of movement is designed to facilitate the handling of instruments during launch and recovery operations.

    An 18-foot yardarm or spreader bar is welded across the top of the structure to provide lift points outside of the area enclosed by the A-frame. This facilitates handling of towed instruments and the launch/recovery of moorings, as well as providing multiple overhead lift points for utility use. Maximum loading at the end of the yardarm is 1,000 lbs. Attachment points large enough to pass 5/8" shackles are provided every 8" along the length of the yardarm. Three center padeyes are designed for 2" shackles.

    The controls are located at the A-frame, mounted on the starboard leg. Lights, electrical power (110 volt AC), voice communications, and compressed air are located on or in the immediate vicinity of the A-frame. Cleats for securing steadying lines and mounting brackets for air winches are welded to the frame, and portable deck cleats are available.

    (h) Oceanus Boats

    (i) Zodiac Hurricane RHIB

    RHIB
    Zodiac Hurricane RHIB

    Length 18 feet
    Power 50 HP Yamaha 4 stroke
    Capacity 9 persons
    Type RHIB
    Location The Zodiac (RHIB) is carried on the 02 Level.

    The boat is available for use by scientific programs for personnel transfer and for general utility work. Gasoline for the motor is always carried aboard the ship. Its size requires that considerable clear space be provided on the Main Deck for this purpose. A member of the ship's crew operates the boat.

    (i) Navigational Equipment

    (i) Satellite Navigation

    The vessel is equipped with the following Satellite Navigation devices:

    2x Furuno GP-90D WAAS/dGPS

    • All units are located on the bridge and are operated by the ship's watch officer.
    • The Furuno GP-90D receivers are the primary navigation devices for the ships navigation. The Furuno GP-90D unit is equipped with a differential beacon receiver (d-GPS). In addition to the visual display in the chart room, the units output a data stream to the science data acquisition system for remote display, logging and redistribution to science user devices. All standard NEMA GPS data are available. Typical data provided are Time, Position, Velocity, Course-Over-Ground and Speed-Over-Ground.

    (ii) Gyro Compass System

    (2) Sperry MK-37 gyro compass systems

    (iii) Speed Log

    440KHz Furuno DS-50Doppler speed log

    (iv) Radars

    • Furuno RDP-115A S-Band with ARPA
    • Furuno RDP-115A X-Band with ARPA

    (v) Direction Finder

    Taiyo TD-L1620 VHF

    (v) Fathometer

    Furuno FE-880 50 KHz

Main Lab

Located on main deck 595 sq. ft.

(Image of Main Lab coming soon)

This is the principal internal general-purpose science working space on the ship. It is designed to be reconfigured as necessary to meet the specific requirements of each scientific party joining the ship. It is centrally located on the port side Main Deck. The area is approximately 800 sq. ft. with the maximum dimensions of 50 feet fore and aft and 18 feet athwart ship. The configuration of the space allows for natural compartmenting of science activities so programs can work without mutual interference. Winch control stations, real time data displays, depth recorders, ACDP and ample provisions for installing science-provided electronics are located in the after end of the lab. The forward portion provides the space for setting up analytical equipment and has sinks and water connections. There is direct access to the Wet Lab (located on the same deck), the Top Lab (one deck up), and to the Main Deck working areas. There is a small vestibule area at the after end of the lab, which acts as a transition zone between the environmentally controlled laboratory space and the weather deck. An overhead hatch, centrally located in the laboratory, permits heavy and bulky equipment to be loaded into the space using the ship's crane.

(b) Wet Lab

Located on main deck 240 sq. ft.

(Image of Wet Lab coming soon)

This is a small laboratory space located at the forward starboard end of the Main Deck. It is designed specifically as a space for drawing water samples, the maintenance of water sampling equipment, the preparation of instrumentation and for wet/dirty activities in general. A large double door located on the after end of the lab opens onto the weather deck area under the hydrographic boom. Workbenches, electrical power, network access, sinks, fresh and salt water connections and communications are installed. An interior watertight door provides access to the forward end of the Main Lab.

(c) Top Lab

Located on 01 deck 350 sq. ft.

(Image of Top Lab coming soon)

This laboratory space is located on the Upper (01) Deck. It is configured with a small bench/work area for the Marine Technician. Two public use computers (one Windows one Macintosh) are located here. There is direct access to the Main Lab (one deck below) and to the Bridge (one deck above). Watertight doors open directly onto the 01 weather deck

Laboratories and science spaces in general are configured to allow efficient installation of scientific equipment with a minimum of effort on the part of scientists and technicians. Benches, shelving, electrical power, water, communications, tie-downs and storage are provided.

Section II. Shared-Use Equipment

Oceanus maintains a pool of shared-use equipment which is available for use by embarked scientists on Oceanus. Details on shared-use equipment can be obtained from the Marine Technicians. Pool equipment is divided into three categories: 1) Standard Ship's Outfit, 2) Transient Equipment, and 3) Specialized Instrumentation. Please note that scientific parties are expected to provide sufficient personnel to undertake the scientific program intended.

Users are strongly encouraged to submit a Shared-Use Equipment Request form well in advance of their cruise. The form can be downloaded in Appendix_08.pdf.

Most of the following equipment (with the exception of Specialized Instrumentation Facilities) is made available to all ship users at no additional cost, beyond the Technicians daily rate for Oceanus users. Extraordinary usage, unusual requests, and interfacing costs beyond the norm may require additional costs to users. Additional costs, if any, are noted below (*).

Further information can be obtained from the Marine Technician Group:

Andrew Woogen Marine Technician Superintendent 541-737-4622 awoogen@coas.oregonstate.edu
Croy Carlin Marine Technician 541-737-1504 carlincr@coas.oregonstate.edu
Johna Winters Marine Technician 541-737-1504 jwinters@coas.oregonstate.edu
Brandon D'Andrea Marine Technician   bdandrea@coas.oregonstate.edu
Steven Lambert Marine Technician   slambert@coas.oregonstate.edu

Equipment in this category are routinely carried onboard Oceanus, and much of it is permanently installed. There are no fees for use of this equipment. Usage fees are covered by the Technicians' Daily Rate for Oceanus. All of this equipment is routinely on the ship, and most of it is permanently installed in the labs. In the event that equipment or fixtures must be removed for scientific needs, several months advance notice is required. Included in this category are:

(a) SeaBird CTD System

SeaBird CTD system, including: CTD and Carousel sampler in frame, water bottles, dual T&C sensors, Oxygen sensor, 25 cm transmissometer, fluorometer, altimeter, PAR sensor data acquisition and storage system, complete backup systems

  • 12-place and 24-place rosette both available
  • 10 liter internal silicone Niskin bottles are standard and 5 liter Niskin bottles are available on request. SeaBird carousel can accommodate most user-supplied bottles up to 10 liters.
  • All sensors calibrated yearly. Additional calibrations can be arranged on request, but will be charged directly to requestor (*).
  • Depth limits:
    • CTD fish, sensors and carousel: 6800 m
    • Oxygen sensor: 6800 m
    • PAR Sensor: 10000 m
    • Transmissometer: 6000 m
    • Fluorometer: 3000 m
    • Altimeter: 6000 m
  • CTD Operations are conducted from a permanent rack and bench in the Main Lab, where computers, deck units, printers, monitors and navigation readouts are located.

(b) RDI Instruments ADCP profilers

RDI Instruments ADCP profilers, 300 kHz Workhorse and 75 kHz Ocean Surveyor available. Includes PC-based acquisition system using UHDAS (http://currents.soest.hawaii.edu/). Interfaced with GPS and Ashtech ADU5 3DF heading systems. Transducer depth is 5 meters.

(c) Benthos model 2216/17 pingers

Benthos model 2216/17 pingers with miss-ping/double-ping capability. 10000 m depth limit. Complete spares and batteries carried onboard - spare pinger can be provided on request.

(d) Shipboard Echosounder

Shipboard echosounder: Knudsen 3260 Chirp dual-frequency digital echosounder (12 kHz and 4.0 kHz), echogram displays on PC screen, data recorded to hard drive and backed up on server and distribution disk. 12 kHz transducer is a single Airmar CS229 with in hull backup, 4.0 kHz is an array of sixteen MASSA TR-1075 transducers in a 4x4 configuration

Shipboard Acoustic Deck Set: Teledyne/Benthos UDB-9000. This unit is connected to one of the Airmar CS229 12 kHz in hull transducers. This unit can communicate will all of the Benthos smart modem systems as well as all of the Benthos acoustic releases, ORE/Edgetech releases as well as the URI PIES.

(e) XBT System

XBT System: Sippican MK-21/USB launcher and acquisition system. Probes are provided by the user.

(f) Shipboard Underway Data Acquisition System (DAS)

Shipboard Underway Data Acquisition System (DAS): Developed in-house. Data is recorded in ASCII format. Data is readable by UNIX, PC and MAC platforms. Data displayed locally in the Main Lab. Computers on the shipboard network can access onboard data display web page. Data is available over the shipboard network during the cruise. Contact Marine Technicians for details. Data is acquired at approximately 1 Hz. Data is acquired, and stored data from the following sensors:

  • Navigation systems (independent Garmin/GPS-17 DGPS, bridge GPSs)
  • Ship Gyro Heading
  • HPS Heading Receiver (Thales Navigation/ADU5)
  • Wind speed and direction (sonic anemometer, approx. 20 m height above waterline)
  • Barometric Pressure (Vaislaa/PTU300)
  • Sea Surface Temperature, SBE 48 hull mount, SBE 38 flow through. (3 m)
  • Sea Surface Salinity (from SBE 45 thermosalinograph, source at 3m)
  • Flow-through fluorometer (WETLabs WetStar)
  • Bottom Depth (from scientific echosounder)
  • Air Temperature/Humidity (Vaislaa/PTU300)
  • PAR Radiation
  • Short-wave and Long-wave solar radiation
  • Auxiliary wind speed
  • GPS Time (from Symmetricom time code receiver)
  • Capacitive and/or Optical Rain Gauge (on request only)
  • User provided sensors upon request, please coordinate in advance.

(g) Millipore Milli-Q

Millipore Milli-Q Advantage 10 water purification system. Sufficient cartridges carried onboard for normal use. Please notify the Marine Technicians in advance if an excessive amount of water will be required.

(h) Refrigerator

Refrigerator: One Refrigerator/Freezer 15 cu ft. NO RADIOACTIVE STORAGE, NO FOODSTUFFS.

(i) Fume Hood

Fume Hood: Located in Wet Lab

(j) Science Seawater Flow-Through System

Science Seawater Flow-Through System: Oceanus is equipped with one science seawater system:

  • The system has a forward intake: Forward facing intake near stem of ship, approximately 3-4 m below waterline, pressure regulated at 20 psi. Outlet available for user-supplied instruments. NOTE: Pressure and flow rate of this source is susceptible to ship speed and heave, and it is subject to significant bubbling in heavy weather. A SUNY VBD=1G debubbler is supplied with system.

(k) Winch slip rings

Winch slip rings: All of Oceanus' winches are capable of handling E-M cables. Slip rings can be provided on all winches. Meridian Laboratories mercury-filled slip rings, 4-channel. A spare set is always available.

(l) Computing

Computing: Oceanus provides LAN access to data servers, as well as internet access through various sources including HiSeasNet, FBB, Iridium, Cellular broadband and SWAP. Please contact Marine Technicians for details.

(m) Printer/Copier/Scanner

Printer/Copier/Scanner: A combined printer/copier/scanner is available for scientific and ship's business.

(n) Winch Readouts

Winch Readouts: A remote readout for winch tension, wire speed and wire out is located centrally in the Main Lab. Remotes can display data from any of Oceanus' three permanent winches. Portable winches do not have readouts.

(o) Data Distribution System

Data Distribution System: Data from various systems is broadcast throughout the vessel. The following signals are available for science use:

  • DGPS (various NMEA sentences)
  • GPS Time (from separate time code receiver)
  • Ashtech 3DF heading/attitude data
  • Winch data (tension, wire out, wire speed) from active winch
  • Underway DAS data stream
  • Others available on request

Oceanus maintains a pool of equipment, which is available on the ship only by request. Except where noted (primarily expendables), this equipment is available at no charge to Oceanus users.

(a) VHF

VHF direction finder.

(b) Geological Samplers

A variety of small samplers (gravity corers, box corers, dredges) are available for use on Oceanus. Please contact the Marine Technicians for details and scheduling. This equipment is made available through the NORCOR Coring Facility, and is subject to scheduling and budget constraints – early requests are strongly advised.

(c) -85C Freezers

One SoLow 5 cu. ft. freezer is available.

(d) Freezers

Two small household-type freezers 15 cu ft.

NO RADIOACTIVE STORAGE, NO FOODSTUFFS.

OSU maintains two NSF-supported national Specialized Instrumentation Facilities; a SeaSoar towed vehicle facility, and the NORCOR Piston Coring Facility. Use of these facilities and equipment are subject to scheduling and funding similar to that for ships. Specialized Instrumentation is usually scheduled at least one year in advance. In particular, the following procedures are required for use of these facilities:

  • Projects and scientists planning use of either of these facilities must contact the facility manager prior to proposal submission to ensure availability. This is required so that user projects can be included in the annual support proposal for each facility. Users should have information on vessel requested, time and duration of proposed cruise, and projected ports of call.
  • At the time of proposal submission, a note should be included in the proposal that use of the particular facility has been discussed and scheduled with the facility manager.
  • When the fate of the proposal is known, users should immediately notify the facility manager of success or failure of the proposal.
  • NSF-sponsored programs will bear no direct costs for use of these facilities. This includes technician travel, per diems, salaries, expendables, etc. Non-NSF programs should include costs for use at the projected daily rate for the particular facility. The facility manager can provide a projected daily rate for budget purposes. When the final budget is negotiated, the user should contact the facility manager for an updated daily rate. The daily rate for non-NSF programs will include all travel, salaries, shipping, etc. unless otherwise negotiated with the facility manager(*).
  • Unless these procedures are followed, equipment and/or technicians may not be available for your project. Last-minute requests cannot usually be accommodated.

Points of contact:

See Appendix_08.pdf - Request for Shared-Use Equipment

Section III. Pre-Cruise Planning

The designated Chief Scientist is responsible for coordinating all planning and reporting for his/her cruise. After a preliminary ship's schedule for Oceanus has been prepared (these schedules are generally available in September for the following year) a Cruise Planning Manual and Form will be sent to the Chief Scientist (if they haven't recently sailed on Oceanus). Once returned to the Marine Superintendent, the Cruise Planning Form will be distributed to appropriate persons including the Marine Technician Group and the ship. An early return of the Cruise Planning Form is encouraged.

(a) Ship Operations Office – Newport, OR

  Phone Fax Email
Marine Superintendent – Kaya Johnson
Scheduling
Ship Time Requests
Cruise Planning
Logistics
Office: 541-867-0225   kaya.johnson@oregonstate.edu
Port Engineer – --vacant--
Ship Systems
Vans
Winches
Ship Repair
     
Port Captain – Matt Fogg
Ship Systems
Vans
Winches
Ship Repair
Office: 541-867-0168
 
  malthurin.fogg@oregonstate.edu
Logistic Specialist – --vacant--
Communications
Reports
Cruise Plans
Foreign Clearances
Logistics
Office: 541-867-0295 541-867-0294  
Operations Specialist – Lisa Marie Hyslop Office: 541-867-0224 541-867-0294 lisamarie.hyslop@oregonstate.edu
Program Specialist – Christine Golden Office: 541-867-0200 541-867-0294 goldenc@oregonstate.edu

(b) Marine Technician Group – Corvallis, OR

  Phone Fax Email
Marine Technician Superintendent – Andrew Woogen
Shared Use Equipment
Logistics
Ship Computing
Shop Services
Informaiton Storage
Scientific Support
Scientific Electronics
Communications
Office: 541-737-4622
Mobile: 831-332-7506
541-867-0294 awoogen@ceoas.oregonstate.edu
Marine Technician – Brandon D'Andrea
Scientific Support
    bdandrea@ceoas.oregonstate.edu
Marine Technician – Kristin Beem
Scientific Support
    kbeem@ceoas.oregonstate.edu
Marine Technician – Kate Kouba
Scientific Support
    kathleen.kouba@oregonstate.edu
Marine Technician – Emily Shimada
Scientific Support
    emily.shimada@oregonstate.edu

(c) Radiation Safety Officer – Corvallis, OR

  Phone Fax Email
Radiation Safety Officer – Daniel Harlan
Radiation Safety
Waste Disposal
Approval for Shipboard Use
Isotope Receiving
Storage
541-737-7082    
Radiation Safety Main Office
Radiation Safety Home Page:
http://oregonstate.edu/ehs/rso
541-737-2227 541-737-9090 radiationsafety@oregonstate.edu

(d) Scientific Dive Safety Officer – Corvallis, OR

  Phone Fax Email
Diving Safety Officer – Kevin Buch
Scientific Diving Home Page:
http://oregonstate.edu/research/diving/
Office: 541-737-6893
Mobile 541-740-4577
541-737-9041 kevin.buch@oregonstate.edu

(e) R/V Oceanus

SHIP IN NEWPORT
SHIP's Switchboard   541-867-0252
Direct to Galley   541-867-0253
EXTENSION NUMBERS: 100 Bridge
  203 MarTech Station
  205 Computer Stations
  300 All Labs
  301 Mess Deck
SHIP AT SEA
CELLULAR: Voice: 541-207-5986
    Telular to PBX
IRIDIUM: Bridge 011-881-641-413-524
    direct to Radio Room

Scheduling of the R/V Oceanus is done through the NSF/UNOLS scheduling process and is done on an annual basis. Generally, Ship Time Requests should be submitted by May 1 for a research project planned for the following calendar year. Scheduling is done by the Marine Superintendent and submitted for review at the annual NSF/UNOLS Ship Scheduling meeting in September. Ship Time Requests can be submitted electronically by going to the UNOLS Ship Time Request System (STRS) https://strs.unols.org/public/diu_login.aspx.

Ship cost data for use in research proposals or other budgeting needs can be obtained from the Marine Superintendent. Daily rates for the ship and Marine Technician support are negotiated each year with NSF-the same rate are charged to all users (some additional charges may be incurred by non-NSF funded users in unusual circumstances).

A Marine Technician will arrange a pre-cruise meeting, a month prior to the cruise. This meeting will allow time to discuss the cruise itinerary, ship configuration, ship loading, shared-use equipment, scientists' equipment, personnel, special ops, MOB & DEMOB logistics. The meeting's participants consist of; the Chief Scientist (&/or Scientist in Charge), Marine Technician, Marine Superintendent, Ship Ops Coordinator and the Ship's Master (when available).

A Cruise Plan (Appendix 2-PDF and available electronically) is required well in advance of the cruise. The form is the key document used to assure that the ship's equipment and personnel needed for a particular cruise will be available. The following should be considered when completing the form:

  • The "Purpose" section of the Cruise Plan may be provided to the Newport News-Times or other members of the press in response to inquiries as to Oceanus's operations. It is also posted in the Oceanus display area of the Hatfield Marine Science Center's public wing. The general public best understands a short, nontechnical description.
  • A detailed "Itinerary," complete with positions and estimated times of arrival and departure, is very useful even if it must be modified during the course of the cruise due to weather, scientific findings, or other unanticipated events. In our experience there is a high correlation between detailed planning and successful operations.
  • The "Equipment Required" section should include both ship's equipment (winches, cranes, capstan, etc. — detailed in Section I of this manual) and "Shared-Use Equipment" (scientific equipment — detailed in Section II of this manual) needed for the cruise.
  • The designated "Scientist in Charge" will have all the responsibilities defined as those of the "Chief Scientist" in this manual.
  • "User Supplied Equipment" must include the actual weights of any heavy objects such as vans or user supplied winches. The weights are critical in determining the trim and stability of the ship as well as the ability of the ship's equipment to handle them.
  • "Other Bulky Heavy Items" should include items such as large objects to be towed (side scan sonar, camera sled, etc.) or deployed (buoys, instruments). Weights, as above, are critical. Heavy objects to be moved at sea should be securely assembled and equipped with adequate lifting points as well as points for attaching tag lines to keep the weight from swinging when lifted. (Stacks of railroad wheels should have three sections of round stock welded vertically, holding the individual wheel in place, and pear links or padeyes welded on for tag lines.)

The operations identified below should be identified in the Ship Time Request Form and Cruise Planning Form and should be coordinated well in advance:

(a) Foreign Operations

Clearances: Any operations in the exclusive economic zones (generally within 200 nm of a foreign coast) or requiring port calls outside of the United States will require clearances. Depending on the country, these clearances must be obtained many months (6 months is common) in advance through the U.S. State Department. Chief Scientists should refer to the applicable U.S. Department of State Notice to Research Vessel Operators for additional information.

Please refer to Section 3.08 for passport requirements.

Customs and Immigration: Foreign port calls will require all scientists embarked, meeting or leaving the ship to go through Customs and Immigration. Individuals are responsible for meeting U.S. and foreign nation customs, immigration and immunization regulations. OSU Ship Operations will not make arrangements for members of the science party or scientific equipment being shipped into or out of a foreign country.

Foreign Agents: Oceanus will, in general, have an agent in a foreign port which may be used, at their expense, by members of the scientific party (A Request for Port Services form is included in Appendix 4). The name of the agent and additional details will be available from the Marine Superintendent.

(b) Radioisotope Work

Any cruise requiring the use of radioisotopes must be coordinated with the Marine Superintendent well in advance, requires approval by the OSU Radiation Safety Committee and will be monitored by the OSU Radiation Safety Officer. OSU's Policy On Radioisotopes Onboard OSU Vessels is included in Appendix 11 of this manual. Radioisotope work is confined to either the ship's radiation laboratory van or vans supplied by the science party. Link to OSU's Radiation Safety Center. http://oregonstate.edu/ehs/rso

(c) Explosives

The transport, loading and use of explosives is strictly regulated by the U.S. Coast Guard. Any use of explosives must be coordinated well in advance with the Marine Superintendent.

(d) Hazardous Materials

Programs using hazardous materials shall be coordinated well in advance with the Marine Superintendent. The Chief Scientist is responsible for the safe use, storage and disposal of all hazardous materials brought on Oceanus. The Chief Scientist shall assure that Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS) for all materials are brought onboard and made available to the ship's Master.

The Chief Scientist will also assure that adequate containment materials, neutralizing agents, etc., are available on the ship to deal with spills or other accidents. In general, hazardous materials (e.g., formalin) are not to be used in the ship's laboratories and must be confined to laboratory vans or open decks.

(e) Diving Operations

Diving operations from Oceanus are subject to OSU Diving Policy (Appendix 10) and the UNOLS Research Vessel Safety Standards. Projects with diving operations should contact the Marine Superintendent well in advance. Link to OSU's Diving Safety Standards and Policy: http://oregonstate.edu/research/diving/

(f) Reporting of Surface and Subsurface Obstacles

Surface and subsurface moorings and bottom mounted instrument packages can present hazards to navigation to surface vessels or submarines and can damage, or be damaged by, fishing vessels. The Principal Investigator/Chief Scientist is responsible of obtaining any necessary permits from appropriate regulatory bodies (e.g., USCG and USA-COE for designated navigation channels, traffic schemes, etc.; NOAA Sanctuary Managers for designated marine sanctuaries, etc.) and for reporting the establishment and disestablishment on any surface or subsurface obstacles. Information on designated areas is available from the latest nautical charts for the operating area, the Coast Pilot or Sailing Directions for the area and the UNOLS web site (www.unols.org). The Ship Operations Office can provide assistance and Oceanus can send messages regarding deployment or recovery but the responsibility remains with the PI/Chief Scientist.

(g) Compressed Gas Cylinders

Compressed gas cylinders must be secured at all times on board Oceanus. Portable racks are available for a limited number of bottles. Projects using a large number of bottles should provide racks or pallets. Bottles not in use are to be stowed upright with the caps in place. Flammable gasses must be stowed on the weather decks.

All personnel on a cruise who are not explicitly members of the ship's crew or an assigned OSU Marine Technician are considered to be members of the scientific party and, as such, under the direction of the Chief Scientist. The Chief Scientist has the authority to determine the makeup of the science party and the responsibility to assure compliance with institution policy. Clearance forms and medical information will be required of all scientific party members.

Voyages on the Oceanus that remain entirely within the jurisdiction of the USCG Captain of the Port Zones do not require the science party to have passports. For any voyages that go into foreign waters (subchapter U of 46 CFR, the USCG treats voyages between the continental United States, Hawaii and Alaska as international voyages.), current passports will be required for all personnel onboard and the passports must be valid for the duration of the voyage. Persons must have in hand all passports, visas, etc. at the time of embarkation.

Holders of non-US passports must generally hold permanent resident ("green card") status or a multiple-entry visa, in either case also valid for the voyage duration. The only exceptions regarding reentry to the US known to us at this time are:

  1. Holders of J1 (student) visas valid for the duration of the voyage may use this visa provided that their home institution supplies an official letter stating that the intended voyage is a legitimate part of their student activities and provided that the I94 form in the passport remains intact – DO NOT allow the I94 card (normally surrendered upon leaving the US) to be detached prior to sailing.
  2. Persons who have entered the US initially under the visa waiver program (VWP). Provided that (i) the person is sailing for a purpose that is consonant with the original VWP entry, (ii) the initial entry was via a commercial carrier empowered to administer the VWP, (iii) the duration of the permitted VWP visit extends past the return to the US on the voyage, and (iv) the person retains the I94W card (the VWP equivalent of the I94 card – DO NOT allow the I94W to be detached prior to sailing), the person's passport and VWP status will suffice.

This information is general in nature and may be subject to change – it is the responsibility of the Chief Scientist and individual embarking to assure that all U.S. and applicable foreign country requirements are met.

A Confidential Release and Consent Form (Appendix 3 PDF) will be required for each scientist. Note that a portion applies only to foreign cruises. This form will normally be e-mailed to the Chief Scientist for forwarding and completion by all member of the science party. The completed form can be e-mailed back to Ship Operations and a printed copy will be available on the ship for signature. This procedure saves time and confusion during loading of the ship.

Virtually all crew members of Oceanus are trained in CPR and First Aid and several have advanced first aid such as that provided by Maritime Health Services (MHS) or Medical Advisory Systems (MAS). In addition, the ship has access to a contract medical advisory service (currently MAS at the time this manual was written), which can provide advice in a medical emergency via Inmarsat or other communications methods. The ship carries a supply of medications and medical equipment for emergency use under the direction of MAS. Individuals are responsible for discussing any known medical conditions with the Chief Scientist for the cruise and judging the liability they pose to themselves and the scientific mission. In the case of serious injury or medical emergency, scientific work will be terminated and the ship will proceed to evacuate the patient to the nearest competent medical facility. Individuals requiring medication must bring an adequate supply of required medications. Those with a medical condition or on prescription drugs should note the condition and medications on the Confidential Release and Consent (PDF) form. This information will be used only in case of emergency.

Oceanus has 13 bunks for scientific personnel, all located in the lower deck berthing area. The Chief Scientist is responsible for assigning berthing arrangements for the scientific complement. A berthing plan in included in Appendix 5 (PDF) but the Chief Scientist should check with Ship Operations before assigning a bunk shared with crew members to determine their gender.

There is no steward service; scientists are responsible for keeping their quarters clean and orderly. Clean sheets, pillowcases and towels are provided weekly. Upon completion of the cruise, the departing scientists shall give their quarters a thorough cleaning so they will be habitable for the next occupants.

In general, two days will be allowed for loading Oceanus prior to a cruise. A crane operator and other members of the deck department will be available during the normal workday (0800-1630) to assist. A forklift, operator and shoreside crane can also be made available in Newport. The Chief Scientist is responsible for arranging for any shoreside support (forklifts, cranes, etc.) required in ports away from Newport. The scientific party is responsible for the arrangement and securing of scientific equipment on deck and in laboratories. Oceanus' crew can assist with heavy equipment on deck and has a limited supply of straps, chain and chain binders for securing equipment. One day is normally allowed for unloading.

The OSU Ship Operations facility in Newport can provide short-term storage for scientific equipment before and after a scheduled cruise and staging areas for the assembly or disassembly of equipment. Since these facilities may be used by a variety of science groups, their use is limited to a few days before the cruise and the day after. Any planned use must be identified in advance and coordinated with the Marine Superintendent. Additional information is available in our Support Services Manual, which is available by request.

(a) Shipping and Receiving

Freight shipments should be addressed to:

OSU Ship Operations
2020 SE OSU Drive
Newport, OR 97365-5275

Please make sure that all shipments are clearly marked with the cruise number and responsible scientist. Shipments not marked may be refused if they can't be identified. No COD shipments will be accepted. Questions regarding shipments should be addressed to the Shipping/Receiving contact listed earlier in this section.

Outgoing shipments can be made but all items must be appropriately packed, clearly marked, and an inventory provided to Shipping/Receiving. We would prefer that the responsible scientist make arrangements with the shipper for pickup and payment but we can ship and then bill the Chief Scientist.

All freight deliveries or pickups, including equipment brought by scientists which will require Ship Operations cranes or forklifts to handle, should be scheduled for the normal workday (0800-1630). Special arrangements can be made when the ship is loading or unloading on a weekend or holiday.

Anything sent by U.S. Mail should also be addressed to:

OSU Ship Operations
2020 SE OSU Drive
Newport, OR 97365-5275

Additional support can be made available by request. Such support includes purchasing compressed gas, chemicals, dry ice, etc.; packing equipment; assisting with "in-water" testing of equipment off the dock; or providing staging space for equipment testing. Arrangements should be coordinated with the Marine Superintendent. Any direct costs, including labor, must be reimbursed.

(b) Parking at Ship Ops

Ship Ops recommends car-pooling whenever possible, as parking space is limited. If you do need to park a vehicle at Ship Ops during your cruise, please contact Ship Ops prior to your arrival to see if there will be room in the gated yard.

Drivers should park against the East Fence (if room), else park in the Northeast section of the gated yard. A set of keys should be dropped off at the Office, with an attached note listing the drivers name, cell phone number and the date the vehicle will depart Ship Ops. Be sure to let Ship Ops know if another driver will be picking up the vehicle.

Hours to access the gated yard is Monday-Friday, 0800-1630. Ship Ops will move any vehicle if it is in the way for loading or unloading of vans or science gear.

When Oceanus operates out of U.S. ports other than Newport we are often 'hosted' by other UNOLS institutions (San Diego, Seattle, Honolulu, Seward) who are willing and able to provide support services for both the ship and science party and a ship's agent is not necessary. At other U.S. ports (e.g., San Francisco, Eureka, etc.) an agent has generally not been necessary. In either of these cases the only costs that the Chief Scientist would be responsible for would be extraordinary ones for unusual logistic requirements. Such needs should be identified in the Cruise Plan and discussed well in advance with the Marine Technician or the Marine Superintendent.

When Oceanus calls at ports outside of the U.S. a ship's agent will be retained to provide logistic support. The agent's services encompass port formalities, arranging for fuel and provisions, handling official shipments to and from the ship, and assisting persons joining and leaving the ship (including procurement of tickets and reservations when required). The Chief Scientist may arrange for a separate billing with the ship's agent or may make arrangements with another agent.

If this is not possible, the Chief Scientist may be authorized to use the ship's account with the agent to provide services to the science party by authorizing a purchase order. While agents are normally very friendly and helpful, all individuals in the scientific party should recognize that every action by the agent results in a charge that can be substantial. OSU will charge the appropriate Chief Scientist for costs incurred on behalf of, and directly related to, the science programs. Such services may include:

  • Expenses of required foreign observers
  • Air fares for unexpected travel
  • Taxi fares
  • Rental cars
  • Debarkation fees in foreign ports
  • Shipping and handling charges for science equipment
  • Commercial crane or forklift service
  • Stevedores
  • Purchase of supplies (gases, chemicals, etc.)
  • Satellite communication charges
  • Medical expenses
  • Services for repair of science equipment

The Chief Scientist has financial responsibility for these costs and is advised to assure that provisions are made to properly assign charges to the projects participating on a cruise. It is recommended that the Chief Scientist notify co-PIs of anticipated financial obligations well in advance of the cruise. The Chief Scientist is responsible for establishing a purchase order with OSU Ship Operations in advance of the cruise to provide a mechanism for charging these services. This purchase order must be established prior to the Chief Scientist being authorized to use the agent's services. Please be aware that bills from agents may arrive several months after the last port call and that OSU's billing will follow the agent's. OSU does not charge any administrative fee for this service.

In order to facilitate our sorting out of the respective charges to the ship, we provide the vessel Master with forms entitled "Request for Port Services" (see Appendix 4 PDF). The Master will provide the agent with a list of authorized signatories (e.g. the Master, Marine Technician, Chief Engineer, Chief Scientist (note the requirement above for a purchase order), and other scientists if designated by the Chief Scientist). The agent will be instructed that OSU will not pay for any charges made by the ship or science party without a signed authorization. This form must be signed by an authorized ship's officer and the scientist generating the request. OSU will bill the Chief Scientist for services to the science party when the agent's invoice is received, translated if necessary, and reconciled. This has occasionally taken six or more months after completion of foreign research cruises.

Section IV. During the Cruise

Oregon State University operates the Research Vessel Oceanus to support scientists conducting oceanographic research and education. A clear understanding of the roles of the Master and Chief Scientist, and good communication between them, is required to assure both the safety and success of any cruise.

(a) Master

The Master of a vessel, by law and long-standing tradition, has the full and final responsibility for the ship and all people onboard. In association with this responsibility he has full authority over all operation and personnel, both crew and scientific party. If circumstances require alterations of the scientific operations for safety or legal reasons, the Master shall inform the Chief Scientist and work to resolve the problems at hand. Disagreements between the Master and the Chief Scientist which cannot be resolved onboard shall be expeditiously referred to the Marine Superintendent. However, in all decisions regarding safety or legal matters, the Master's authority is absolute.

(b) Chief Scientist

One member of the scientific party is to be designated, in the Cruise Plan, as the Chief Scientist. This designation is required to provide a clean line of communication between the operating crew and the scientific party. The individual is responsible for all of the projects of all scientists embarked including the scheduling of the work. In addition, the Chief Scientist is responsible for supervising the scientific party in matters of organization, administration, safety, and compliance with shipboard regulations and legal requirements (e.g, occupational safety and health, environmental compliance, etc.).

The Chief Scientist should consult frequently with the Master and Marine Technician regarding the operational details and progress of the cruise. The Chief Scientist has the authority to modify the scope and order of work, cruise track, etc., within the general scope of the Cruise Plan. Deviations from the Cruise Plan are to be discussed with the Master before implementation. The Marine Superintendent shall be notified immediately of any major deviation in program accomplishment, operating area, or schedule.

(c) Marine Technician

Under policies established by funding agencies and OSU-CEOAS, one Marine Technician is required onboard Oceanus for each cruise. He/she is responsible for scheduling shared-use equipment required for each cruise, for assisting with loading/unloading and setup logistics, and for coordination of shipboard scientific operations. Chief Scientists should contact the assigned Marine Technician to coordinate logistics and planning. The Marine Technician can answer any questions regarding facilities, services and loading/off-loading. If you anticipate unusually complex operations, these should be discussed with the Marine Technician in advance so that the proper deck equipment is onboard.

At sea, the Marine Technician has some responsibilities for operation of certain shipboard equipment (echosounders, data acquisition system, CTD, GPS, shipboard computers, email, etc.). He/she will assist with operation of shared-use equipment and with scientific operations as time permits, but will not be responsible for project-supplied equipment. Duty hours for the Marine Technician at sea will generally be 0700-1900 daily. If you will have specific duties for the Marine Technician outside of this time frame, or have unusual requirements for assistance, please contact the Marine Technician assigned to your cruise well in advance to discuss. Any questions or problems, which arise at sea, should be directed to the Marine Technician. The Marine Technician is the primary coordinator between the scientific party and crew. Because of his/her experience and knowledge, the Marine Technician should be kept informed of planned operations and unusual circumstances.

The Marine Technician Group is here to assist you. Please feel free to call with any questions or problems. Contact information can be found in Section 3.02 of this manual.

Under funding agency policies, OSU is able to supply only one Marine Technician under the technician daily rate for Oceanus. If you have need for an additional technician(s) at sea, please contact the Marine Technician Superintendent in advance concerning charges for additional technicians.

The following items are not permitted onboard the Oceanus or on OSU property:

  • Alcoholic beverages
  • Narcotics and other controlled substances
  • Pets
  • Firearms and non-folding sheath knives

OSU's policy on alcohol and drugs is included in the Confidential Release and Consent form required from each member of the science party. As noted on the form, members of the science party may be subject to drug/alcohol testing if involved in a "Serious Marine Incident" as defined by federal regulation. For additional info see Section 9.3.5 of the Safety Management Manual- (SMM).

Smoking is not allowed anywhere within the interior spaces of vessels managed or operated by the Ship Operations Group with the following exceptions:

  1. Smoking is permitted only on open decks, and in well-ventilated machinery spaces.
  2. During foul weather, at the Master's discretion, smoking may be allowed in the winch room on Oceanus.

Smoking in any enclosed area will cease upon objection from any person.

Additionally, the practice of selling tobacco products to crewmembers/technical staff from bonded stores on board the University's vessels is not allowed.

Oceanus has limited medical capabilities onboard as described in the pre-cruise planning section of this manual. Any accidents, injuries or illnesses are to be brought to the attention of the mate on watch or the Master. The Master will see that appropriate treatment is provided to the ability of the ship. In the case of a medical emergency, the Master has the final responsibility and authority for the appropriate course of action including medical evacuation or termination of the cruise.

Oregon State University policy prohibits behavior based on another's status that has the purpose or effect of creating an intimidating, hostile, or offensive working or educational environment. Status refers to race, color, national origin, religion, sex, sexual orientation, age, disability, or veteran status. Any incidence thereof should be immediately reported to the Master, or an appropriate alternative.

In home port and on port calls between cruises away from home port, the oncoming scientific party will normally board the ship by 0800 and the ship will depart at approximately 1000. The oncoming scientific crew can berth onboard the night before departure. Dinner will not be served that evening and meal service will begin with breakfast the next day.

Arrival will generally be by 1000 the last day of the cruise. Lunch will be served but dinner will not be. The scientific party should have the laboratory and berthing spaces clear and cleaned by the end of the day and be off the ship. This policy does not apply to cruises arriving late in the day or evening.

Special circumstances may require modification of these procedures. Cruise planners should consult with the Marine Superintendent in advance.

The mess area can accommodate about 14 people at a sitting. Meals are served cafeteria style during hours posted on the bulletin board. The ending time of a meal indicates the time one should finish; not arrive in line. Those finished eating should leave the area so others may be seated. The messdeck should be vacated from after supper until 1900 to allow the cooks to clean the area.

Those with special dietary requirements should make them known to the Marine Technician well in advance of the cruise. The Marine Technician will pass that information on to the cook who will stock appropriate foodstuffs for the cruise. The galley refrigerator is stocked for snacks and night lunches after the evening meal. The ship's reefers and dry stores are off-limits areas without permission of the cook. Users of the galley and mess deck must properly dispose of all trash and leave the area in an orderly condition for the next meal.

Suitable clothing will be worn at all meals; shoes and shirts are mandatory. Rain gear, coveralls or clothes dirty from work shall not be worn on the mess deck or in the lounge. The ship is the home for scientific personnel and the crew; courtesy dictates that conduct, including wearing apparel, be within acceptable standards.

Oceanus complies with Annex V of MARPOL 73/78 which forbids the overboard discharge of all plastics and restricts all other overboard disposal. No refuse shall be thrown overboard without the permission of the Master. Separate containers for plastic waste are provided. "Sharps" shall be disposed of in appropriate containers rather than in the general garbage.

Oceanus is provided with an approved Type II Marine Sanitation Device. Please note and comply with the posted restrictions regarding what may be put into the system.

The ship provides hard hats, work vests (for flotation) and some rain gear. All other items are the responsibility of the individual. Open-toed shoes or sandals are hazardous to the wearer onboard ship and are not to be worn when working. A stout, completely enclosed shoe is required as a minimum. Persons working on deck should consider safety shoes with reinforced toes.

Washers and dryers, with laundry soap are available onboard. A seven-day supply of clothing is recommended for longer cruises since fresh water is limited. The laundry equipment must be used by many people and will not operate in heavy weather (the laundry will be secured).

The ship provides bed linen, soap and towels. Individuals are responsible for shaving gear, toothbrush and paste, etc. Items such as coffee pots, heaters, hot plates, etc., are not permitted in staterooms because of health and safety concerns. Antenna connections for radios and TV's are provided in staterooms – individuals using such equipment should use low volume to avoid disturbing those who may be sleeping.

The potable water supply is limited in both the amount that can be carried onboard when the ship leaves port and the rate at which it can be made at sea. All members of the scientific party are requested to conserve water at all times. This can be done by using water sparingly when showering and laundering only when necessary and with full loads.

Fire and abandon ship drills are required by federal regulation and are held shortly before or after departure and will include instruction from the Chief Mate. This drill is mandatory for all members of the scientific party. It is the responsibility of the scientific party to become familiar with their assignments for each drill and to know the location of the survival suit. Two Type I life jackets and Emergency Escape Breathing Devices (EEBD) are found in his/her berthing areas. Drills are to be taken seriously as training for survival is extremely important at sea. All members of the scientific party will attend drills properly attired with hat, long pants, long sleeves, and life jacket as if the ship were to be abandoned.

Members of the scientific party who are on watch or conducting scientific observations which would be jeopardized by participating in a drill after the initial drill may be excused from a specific drill. The Master will insure that all members of the entire complement are accounted for at each drill.

Working and living on a ship at sea is inherently dangerous. Each member of the scientific complement, as well as the crew, must be safety conscious at all times. Any situation or condition that might constitute a safety or fire hazard shall be corrected at once, either by the person observing the condition if it's within their purview or by notifying the watch officer on the bridge for further action.

(a) RVOC Safety Manual

A copy of the "RVOC Safety Training Manual - Chapter 1 Research Party Supplement" is in each stateroom. Individuals who have not read it are strongly encouraged to do so — it contains much useful information which can help prevent serious injury or even death.

(b) Work Vests, Safety Harnesses, Hard Hats

Work vests and, if required, safety harnesses and life lines are to be worn by everybody on deck for over-the-side operations such as CTD casts, instrument deployment and recovery or mooring work. Hard hats are required for any operations with cranes, A-frames, etc. Life vests or other appropriate flotation devices are to be worn at all times in boats deployed from Oceanus.

(c) Doors, Hatches, Wire Ropes

Stand clear of all wires, ropes and blocks that are under load or moving. Do not get caught between a moving object and a stationary part of the ship. Do not stand in the bight of a line that is under tension. Never wrap a line around your hand or other part of your body so that you can't let go of it immediately if you need to. Keep fingers, hands and feet away from the knife edges of watertight doors and hatches. Open doors or hatches must be secured and closed doors and hatches must be dogged. Doors are never to be allowed to swing freely with the motion of the ship.

(d) Restricted Areas

Personnel are not to enter the following areas:

  • Anybody's stateroom without their explicit approval.
  • The engine room or other machinery space without approval of an engineer or the Master. Hearing protection will be required.
  • The bridge, unless approved by the Mate on watch.
  • The top of the pilot house, mast or other elevated area without permission of the Mate on watch. A safety harness will be required at sea and the ship's radars and communications equipment may have to be secured to eliminate RF and microwave energy hazards.

Communication methods and phone numbers are described in the first section of the manual. Those wishing to communicate with Oceanus are encouraged to use Oceanus's home page for current information and contact the Ship Operations staff for any problems or unusual requirements.

Section V. Post Cruise Obligations

The Chief Scientist is responsible for assuring that the members of the scientific complement clean all berthing and laboratory areas used during the cruise. This is necessary to make these areas available to the oncoming scientific party. Cleaning guidelines are:

  • Laboratories: Sweep and swab (if necessary) the decks; wipe down bench tops and cabinets; scour sinks and empty trash containers to "dumpster" on dock, or trash bin while at sea.
  • Staterooms: Scour sink; clean mirror; wipe down fixtures; wash off any spots on bulkheads or furnishings; vacuum rugs; fold down blankets neatly at foot of bunks; put dirty linen in linen bag hung at each door of individual berthings.
  • Heads and Showers: Swab out toilets and wipe down the outside; scour shower bulkheads and deck.

Please leave these areas in the condition you would like to find them when you come onboard — this will be greatly appreciated by the next scientific party. The Marine Technician can provide cleaning equipment and advice. Cleaning equipment can also be obtained through the Chief Steward and Chief Mate.

The Chief Scientist is also responsible for assuring that all hazardous materials are removed and disposed of properly.

If the ship incurs any direct costs, such as crew overtime, professional cleaning fees or hazardous waste disposal fees because the scientific party did not fulfill their obligation to clean the designated areas or dispose of materials, they will be billed to the Chief Scientist or Principal Investigator as appropriate.

The ship will normally return to port by 1000 in the morning of the last day of the cruise. The crew will assist the scientific party in unloading all equipment. A forklift and shore-based crane can be made available in Newport, but the Chief Scientist is responsible for arranging any shoreside services required in other ports. All off-loading and the cleaning of spaces should be complete by the evening of arrival so the next science group can begin loading the next morning. Likewise, the off-going science party will not normally be provided with berthing on the ship that night.

For arrivals in the late afternoon or evening these requirements will not apply. Special arrangements may be made if Oceanus has a longer in port period than the normal 72-hour period allowed between cruises.

(a) UNOLS Research Vessel Cruise Assessment

Once the cruise is over, the Chief Scientist is responsible for completing the UNOLS Post Cruise Assessment Report form, which can be found on line at UNOLS: http://strs.unols.org/public/diu_pre_pcar.aspx. These forms provide useful information to the Marine Superintendent in the management of the vessel and provide UNOLS with information to evaluate the performance of the vessels in the academic research fleet. Chief Scientists are also encouraged to call or e-mail the Marine Superintendent with any comments regarding the cruise, the ship, the ship's personnel, shore support provided or any other matter related to the ship's accomplishment of the scientific mission.

(b) Cruise Summary Report (ROSCOP)

ROSCOP forms are available at http://ocean.ices.dk/Roscop/Default.aspx

This form should be completed and submitted to ICES by the Chief Scientist. http://ocean.ices.dk/Submission/Default.aspx

(c) UNOLS Cruise Report/Ship Utilization Data Form

Ship Operations will complete this form. Email copies will be sent to the Chief Scientist, for his/her records. If errors are noted, Ship Operations should be contacted immediately for correction and re-submission.

(d) Preliminary Cruise Report (U.S. State Department Requirement for Foreign Cruises)

The Chief Scientist will be required to complete a Preliminary Cruise Report and submit it within 30 days after cruise completion to the Research Vessel Clearance Officer at the Department of State (as outlined in the Clearance Approval received from the State Department). Additional information can be found in the State Department's Notice to Research Vessel Operators, No. 66, Rev. 1, which is available from OSU Ship Operations or any other Marine Superintendent for the academic fleet.

  1. UNOLS Ship Time Request Form — UNOLS Ship Time Request Logon page
  2. Cruise Plan Form — PDF format — WORD format
  3. Release and Consent form — PDF format — WORD format Note: both pages must be signed and submitted.
  4. Request for Port Services (PDF)
  5. Berthing Plan (PDF)
  6. Oceanus Deck Layout Plans:
  7. Transducer Well Layout (PDF)
  8. Shared-Use Equipment Available and Costs (Link to online web form)
  9. Winch Wires & Drums (PDF on Box)
  10. OSU Diving Policy (Kevin Buch — Dive Officer) — more info coming soon. (Link to OSU Diving Safety web page).
  11. Isotope Vans
  12. UNOLS Research Vessel Cruise Assessment by Chief Scientist (Link to PCA web page)

Safety Management Manual (PDF on Box)

All person in the science party are encourage to read, at a minimum, the following sections in the Oceanus Safety Management Manual prior to boarding the vessel:

  • SMM 2.2 Drug & Alcohol Policy
  • SMM 6.5 A-Frame Operations
  • SMM 7.14 Shipboard Science Operations
  • SMM 7.15 Overboarding Operations
  • SMM 7.16 Overboarding Equipment
  • SMM 7.17 CTD Operations
  • SMM 7.18 Dive Operations
  • SMM 7.20 Personal Protective Equipment
  • SMM 7.21 HazMat Operations