The U.S. academic research fleet is an essential national resource, and it is likely that scientific demands on the fleet will increase. Oceanographers are embracing a host of remote technologies that can facilitate the collection of data, but will continue to require capable, adaptable research vessels for access to the sea for the foreseeable future. Maintaining U.S. leadership in ocean research will require investing in larger and more capable general purpose Global and Regional class ships; involving the scientific community in all phases of ship design and acquisition; and improving coordination between agencies that operate research fleets.

The Interagency Committee on Oceanography publishes annually the planned schedules, type of work, and general of operation for all government owned or sponsored oceanographic ships of the United States. The first edition of the Oceanographic Ship Operating Schedules (ICO Pamphlet No. 1) was published in March 1961. This present document uses the same general for mat as previous issues and includes the most recent additions to our oceanographic fleet. Requests for use of visiting scientist berths should be submitted directly to the agency, laboratory, or institution sponsoring the particular cruise. Dates, areas of operations, and space available for other scientists are for general planning purposes only and are subject to change as the needs of the sponsors may require.