Life Onboard
Living arrangements on the Nathaniel B. Palmer (NBP) are comfortable, and consist of two bunks, a head, and a shower in each cabin. The chief scientist and MPC cabins have dayrooms as well as the sleeping compartment. All cabins are equipped with a TV/VCR, stereo, telephone and a LAN jack for connection to the network. This network access includes the ability to connect to the ship's primary data acquisition computer system for viewing and logging data. With the exception of the chief scientist cabin, most grantee and all RPSC berthing is on the O1 Deck, which is on the same level as the Sauna and Gym. Laundry facilities are provided on each level.
The 02 Lounge is open 24 hours a day for everyone's use and is stocked with more than 150 movies. A small donation-only book library is also housed in the 03 Conference Room for all to use. The Conference Room also has a TV and VCR, which is open for use to all as well. Another lounge is available on the 04 Level.
The NBP's Workout Room is equipped for both weight and endurance training. A Universal Weight Machine, treadmill, rowing machine, and exercise bike occupy the weight room. Just across the passageway is a sauna for relaxing after a hard day's work or workout. This area is open 24 hours a day.
The Mess Hall is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week, and is located all the way forward on the starboard side of the Main Deck.
Edison Chouest, the contractor that operates the NBP, provides vegetarian meals on request. If you have special dietary interests or needs, the Cook can accommodate with prior medical clearance. For snack-food junkies: plan to visit the grocery store before sailing as only a very limited selection is available. Snacks, such as chocolate, coffee, or your favorite health food make the ship feel more like home.
Meals are served at the following times:
- 0730 - 0830 Breakfast
- 1130 - 1230 Lunch
- 1730 - 1830 Dinner
- 1930 - 2030 Late Dinner
- 2330 - 0030 Midnight Rations
General-use laundry equipment is provided on each deck forward of the main ladder-way. Soap and bleach are provided. Clean linen is available from the ship's supply and includes blankets, sheets, and pillowcases. Passengers may bring their own bed linens.
The Captain and crew of the NBP are outstanding. The Captain for this cruise, Scott C. Dunaway, and the Chiefmate, John-Martin A. Souza, run a tight ship. They do everything possible to make the science objectives a success while keeping the ship, crew, and science party out of harms way. Safety is always the primary concern above all else. And, tunefully, I have never had to concern myself with the worries that the ship or myself were in danger. To the Captain and the crew of the NBP, I thank you for that.