SOOP Basic ship visit and rider rules. [NO LONGER ABLE TO LINK TO THIS]

Abstract

The following guidelines pertain to any person who might have occasion to visit, install, repair or replace equipment, or ride on any Voluntary Observing Ship (VOS) participating in any program to collect scientific observations. Most of these guidelines are based upon common sense and respect for those who “live” on the vessel on which you may be visiting. Respect the fact that you are essentially being invited into their home as a guest and, as a guest, you want to be invited back. Our goal within the VOS Program has always been to minimize our shipboard impact as much as possible. These are not “Cruise Ships” or “Research Vessels” and we should always be prepared to take care of and meet our own needs and requirements. There are times, like departing or arriving in port or navigating congested waters that the bridge officers and crew have to concentrate on their own responsibilities and not ours. So, it is a good idea to leave them alone during this time. It is always a good idea to brief the Captain and Chief Engineer prior to departure as to just what your plans are and exactly what you will need from the bridge officer on watch (i.e. date, time and position, etc.).

These guidelines are not just for the novitiate “first timer”, but also for those of us who have often visited or ridden on the same ship many times. It is certainly acceptable and beneficial to be knowledgeable about the ship’s standard operation but don’t become so familiar that you become complacent and forget the basic rules of respect. Always remember that you are a professional involved in the collection of important scientific information and you not only represent yourself, but also your organization (i.e. NOAA). .