There are two primary research vessels that UW undergraduates in marine biology may spend time on. In introductory classes, you may get a chance to go on a short overnight trip in the Puget Sound. If you major in a marine science field or spend a quarter at Friday Harbor Labs, your time may be focused on collecting data for your own research.
R/V Thomas G. Thompson
A 274 ft long vessel owned by the Office of Naval Research and operated by the UW School of Oceanography. Undergraduates may have the opportunity to tour the Thompson or go on day field trips in the local area. Oceanography majors collect data for their senior research projects through a senior research cruise, which frequently happens further afield in the Pacific Ocean. More information about the R/V Thompson.
In the News
- “Oceanography team leads study of unexpected seafloor seep” (UW News, April 10, 2023)
- “Annual research trip off Oregon coast gives students once in a lifetime experience at sea” (UW Environment, August 22, 2022)
- “UW’s large research vessel, R/V Thomas G. Thompson, gets back to work” (UW Today, February 1, 2018)
R/V Rachel Carson
A 72 ft long vessel owned by UW School of Oceanography and part of the UNOLS fleet. A successor to the R/V Barnes, R/V Rachel Carson is intended for research in Western Washington and British Columbia. More information about the R/V Rachel Carson.
In the News
- “R/V Rachel Carson Stars in a Brand Story for Sea-Bird Scientific” (UW Oceanography, January, 2023)
- “New UW vessel, RV Rachel Carson, will explore regional waters” (UW Today, May 10, 2018)
R/V Kittiwake
A 42 ft long vessel stationed at Friday Harbor Labs on San Juan Island. More information about the R/V Kittiwake.