Marine Science Center of Northeastern University

A Hands-on, oceanography experience for local school children aboard the 50 ft. R/V Mysis. During three-hour cruises into Broad Sound and Nahant Bay, instructors demonstrate the use of various oceanographic tools and methods used to conduct research. The data collected is used for long term monitoring of Nahant Bay and Broad Sound. Students will participate in:

Biological Oceanography of the Planktonic Community
Biological Ocenography of the Benthic Community
- I. Bottom Trawl
- II. Benthic Surveys of Using a Remote Operated Vehicle (ROV)
- III. Surveys of Soft Bottom Sediments Using Bottom Grab
Chemical Oceanography using a CTD
Water Quality Measurements Using Handheld Instruments
Secchi Disk Measurements of Water Clarity

The trip begins at Seaport Landing Marina in Lynn, MA with a cruise into Broad Sound and Nahant Bay. Once out of the Lynn Harbor channel, students will observe a plankton tow off the stern of the boat. The collected sample is viewed under microscopes onboard or taken back to the classroom after the cruise. At an established research station, a 15 minute trawl is taken to sample the organisms living on the bottom. When the trawl is brought up, students assist in the identification and measurement of the sample. At another station, water quality measurements are taken and the ROV is deployed for live-viewing of the ocean bottom. In between stations, students can input data onto a computer adding their cruise data into a permanent data base on water quality and benthic organisms in Broad Sound and Nahant Bay. Students also have the opportunity to observe the pilot house and talk with the captain.

Cruises on the RV Mysis leave from Seaport Landing in Lynn at 8:30 AM and 11:30 PM daily
(M - F), weather permitting. The cost is $400 per cruise for up to 30 students and instructors. To schedule a cruise, complete the request form below.

Download Cruise Request Forms (PDF)

Download Cruise Manual (PDF)

Download Trawl Guide (PDF)

For information contact
Tracy Hajduk Outreach Coordinator
Marine Science Center
430 Nahant Road, East Point
Nahant, MA 01908
(781)581-7370 x321
(781) 581-6076 (fax)

E-Mail to Tracy Hajduk