Next Page   Previous Page   First Page

page 3:

On the Bent, we will leave Japan and cross the entire Pacific Ocean, passing through the Aleutians and ending our trip in Seattle, Washington. Although the ship could travel directly to Seattle in about 20 days, our journey will take about ten weeks because we will be making side trips to collect data about the sea in several specific areas.

(globe.gif)

It is very expensive to collect data at sea aboard an oceanographic vessel. It costs over US$40,000.00 per day to operate the Bent. This includes expenses like crew and scientists salaries and overtime, food, fuel, equipment and even insurance.

Because it is so expensive, we only go to sea about once a year. For months before a trip, we carefully plan our work schedule to use every possible hour of ship time. We have been planning this particular cruise for over a year, and now our trip is finally about to begin.

Glossary Bibliography  References  Coloring Book  Oceanographic Sites