In general, pack as light as you can. Accommodations are relatively small and space is limited. This is a general list of items to assist with your packing:
Hat - necessary to protect yourself from the sun
Sunscreen - Lots of sunscreen is a good idea; some will be provided, but if you prefer your own brand, you should bring it
Sunglasses – polarized sunglasses are best; remember to bring spare eyeglasses and/or contacts as well as a copy of your eyeglass prescription
Prescription medications/Non-prescription Medications - personnel that need prescription medications need to make sure that they bring enough for the entire cruise; if you take “over-the-counter” medication on a regular basis (such as ibuprofen, aspirin, decongestants, etc.), you must make sure to bring adequate supplies for the cruise; the ship has limited quantities of over-the-counter medications
Spare towel & robe –towel for the steel beach (flying bridge), and robe for travel to and from showers.
IPods/CDs - music is played on the flying bridge when things are slow; you will quickly get to the point of having heard the "same old thing," so quantity and variety counts
Flash Cards/Film - if you bring your own camera, bring a spare flash card or enough film for four months; if you are traveling by air, some x-ray machines will damage film; an extra camera battery is also a good idea
Computers - you are encouraged to bring your own laptop; this year, the ship WILL allow VISTA operating systems to be connected to their network system
Batteries - for alarm clocks, watches, walkmans, etc. that you will use during the cruse
Closed-toe shoes - required throughout the ship, except in your room or in the shower
Warm clothing &foul weather jacket – the west coast of the US can get very cold and wet during our survey months; be prepared for bad weather; make sure to bring a warm jacket, and clothes you can layer; a foul weather jacket and windbreaker are strongly recommended
U.S. stamps - you will have a chance to post mail when arriving in port and stamps are handy to have before you arrive
Travel Money - use your best judgment for how you want to handle your money
Passports – required
Birth certificate – recommended