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Where are the deck chairs on this cruise?

Northeastern University undergraduate Beth Sosik knits and WHOI senior research assistant Ellen Roosen reads while resting on the fantail of the research vessel Oceanus. They may call it a “cruise,” but an oceanographic expedition is usually a unique blend of tedium and patience, punctuated by bursts of extremely hard work. Each member of the ship crew and science party stands several “watches” per day working four, six, or eight hours on, then four to eight hours off to keep everyone fresh and involved. Your entertainment is usually whatever low-tech (or no-tech) gear you can fit in your duffel bag. (Photo by Meribeth Ratzzel, Provincetown Center for Coastal Studies)