Research Fleet
The UMCES Research Fleet is the backbone of the Center’s coastal science research programs, providing scientists with access to the Chesapeake Bay and its rivers. Home-ported at the Chesapeake Biological Laboratory in Solomons, the research fleet consists of 16 vessels stationed at CBL and the Horn Point Laboratory.
Christened in November 2008, the R/V Rachel Carson is the flagship of the UMCES fleet. The 81-foot Rachel Carson can be rigged to support a wide variety of estuarine and near-coastal oceanographic research projects, including dredging, trawling, coring, water quality observations, plankton sampling, and buoy deployment. The Carson’s shallow draft, speed, maneuverability, general configuration and versatility make her well-suited for the varied conditions and problems encountered in estuarine and near-coastal research.
Learn more about the R/V Rachel Carson:
- Learn about the Rachel Carson's layout and accommodations
- See the Rachel Carson's technical specifications
- See how the Rachel Carson can be outfitted for your research cruise
- Find out about Rachel Carson scheduling and cruise planning
Additional information regarding specific projects, or inquiries concerning shiptime, scheduling, or equipment can be obtained by contacting:
Bruce K. Cornwall, Marine Superintendent
University of Maryland Center for Environmental Science
Research Fleet Operations
Chesapeake Biological Laboratory
1 Williams Street, P.O. Box 38
Solomons, MD 20688-0038
Phone: 410-326-7358
Fax: 410-326-7342
Related Resources: