The vessel sails 24 hours a day, and requires constant vigilance. You will stand watch with classmates and the nautical and scientific staff each day and night, learning from them and taking on increasing responsibilities. In addition to standing watch, attending on-board lectures, collecting research samples, analyzing data and summarizing research results, you will also share kitchen duty and other domestic responsibilities. Life on the ship will be tiring, energizing, perhaps sometimes monotonous, but constantly changing. Ultimately the pleasure you derive from your experience will be richer because it is earned.
SEA enjoys an excellent safety record.
SEA vessels, equipment, and crew training programs, including emergency medical training, are subject to rigorous U.S. Coast Guard and American Bureau of Shipping standards and regulations. The open sea is, however, among the most challenging and dangerous environments on the planet. There is risk involved, but we believe it is acceptable risk, and risk which directly engages students and enhances the learning experience. Seasickness is an ugly yet true fact of life on board an ocean-going ship for landlubbers. While never pleasant, seasickness is typically a temporary and treatable condition.