Research Fleet
The University of Maryland Center for Environmental Science's 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 the Chesapeake Biological Laboratory 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
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