Programs Blog

From Lobster Pots to Tidal Pools

August 14, 2023
An introduction to intertidal marine critters in the SML sea

August 10, 2023

Ari and Calvin, C Watch

Ship’s Log

Noon Position
42deg 59.0’N x 070deg 37.2’W

Log
35.27 nautical miles

Weather / Wind / Sail Plan
Cloudy, SSW Force 2 Wind at around 4 knots

Description of location
Anchored off Appledore Island, home to Shoals Marine Lab and a small collection of low rocky islands along coastal Maine; under gray skies.

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The day started as our watch ended, at 01:00 with a good breeze of beaufort force 2 wind coming from the south west. At 07:00, during the turnover between watches, a miscommunication between the watches led to an unspotted lobster pot getting caught in the prop. Jeff (Chief Scientist) then dove elegantly into the drink and untangled the line. Once untangled, we continued on our planned course to Appledore Island in Isle of Shoals, arriving at 08:30 and anchoring.

We disembarked the Corwith Cramer at 13:30 on several small powerboats that brought us to shore. Jenna, the local lab manager, greeted us on shore and started our tour of Shoals Marine Lab. The tour consisted of three destinations. We first entered the lab and saw many live creatures such as lobsters, crabs, and large, slimy moon snails. Our second destination was the cafeteria. There, we learned about the history of the island and the many other islands that surrounded us. Something interesting we learned was that the island used to be home to a hotel in the late 1800s before it burned down in 1914. We then moved on to our final destination: a very large tidal pool. We enjoyed hunting small creatures and swimming in the water. Some of the creatures we found were: small shrimp, crabs, and hermit crabs. After our tour, and back onboard Cramer, we were trained in going aloft. This was very intimidating for some people, though we all agreed the view of Isle of Shoals and surrounding ocean were unforgettable! Following the conclusion of our training, we conducted a few more anchor checks. Anchor checks serve the purpose of making note of change in ship position and ensure that nothing goes awry. We had an all hands dinner of enchiladas and rice. Following dinner we had a muster on the quarter deck. The Captain discussed our plans to race for Nantucket in the next 48 hours because of an approaching storm front that may bring gale force winds.

Soon after, Alpha watch took over from us and we all went below deck to relax with chess, cards and other games.

Authors: Ari and CalvinEditors: Jay, Hadley, and DelphineCharlie Watch

Shoals Marine Lab (SML) staff member Jenna discusses island history and the scientific and education mission of the research station

Exploring the Great Tide Pool

Calvin climbing aloft on the foremast