I have written this web book to describe my experiences in conducting oceanographic experiments at sea. Working at sea is unlike any other endeavor. It has been my experience that most people are not properly prepared for their first cruise. I know I wasn't. It is my hope that this book will help people prepare to meet the challanges of working at sea.

There are three versions of this online book available. The version you are currently viewing utilizes tables to create the index on the side. Another version is available which utilizes HTML frames to accomplish the same task. Click here to switch to the frames version. Alternatively you can download a full copy of the book as a PDF file for viewing or printing with Adobe Acrobat Reader. Click here to download the full book in PDF format (695K).

While I have learned my craft from both experience and the help of numerous colleagues over the year, I take responsibility for the contents of this book. The opinions contained herein are my own, and are not neccesarily shared by my employer. Any comments or complaints regarding this text should be addressed to:

Dedication

This book is dedicated to my late father, George Chapman. He taught me the values of hard work, the benefits of treating people with respect, and the advantages of common sense. What I am today, I owe to him.

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