Theo's Survey Blog
Theo Gaussen is studying MSc Applied Marine Geoscience at Bangor
University and spent a week at sea on the East Coast REC Survey. He
has written a blog about his experience.
As part of my MALSF funding I had the chance to go on a
geotechnical cruise aboard the CEFAS Endeavour for a week. This
seemed like an excellent opportunity to see what life is like on a
research cruise and get a feel if I would enjoy it as a career.
After arriving on the Monday night I was introduced to the team
over a few beers and a curry. The team included people from CEFAS,
BGS and Wessex Archaeology.
The Tuesday morning was spent with an introductory toolbox
regarding the equipment we would be using which included a
vibro-corer and clamshell grab. There was also an introduction to
the ship before sailing at 5pm. My shift pattern was from 12
midnight to 12 midday and my roles involved helping the engineers
and geologists collect process and store the samples. With short
transit times between the stations, we were always busy sorting the
previous samples before the next ones came aboard.
The weather was excellent the whole time we were out, with calm
seas, warm nights and sunny days. The food aboard was great and
there was always plenty of it and everybody had their own cabin
with en-suite bathroom and sky TV! Once the shift finished it
would be lunchtime, before crashing into bed to get some
well-earned rest. All the Ship staff were friendly and helpful and
I had a great experience whilst on board.
