Introducing the R/V Bob Dylan: A Compact Research Vessel for Scripps Oceanography
Enlargement of Maritime Research Pursuits for Students Through Scientific Workboat
The R/V Bob Dylan, a 42-foot scientific workboat owned by UC San Diego, has become an essential tool for Scripps Oceanography researchers. Commissioned in April 2019, this research yacht, funded by the Bob Dylan Foundation, offers a unique and intimate research experience.
The vessel's compact setup allows for close-quarters communication and easy operation of its A-frame and crane-machinery. With a cruising speed of up to 28 knots and a range of 800 kilometers (500 nautical miles), the R/V Bob Dylan is ideal for nearshore work, providing precise positioning that helps conduct broad surveys and high-resolution sonar surveys at research areas.
Versatile Control and Operation
The R/V Bob Dylan can be maneuvered from four different locations: the main helm and captain's chair, the flybridge one deck up facing forward, the flybridge looking aft, and a joystick and hydraulic controls on the back deck. This versatility ensures that the vessel can be operated effectively in various conditions.
Accommodating Researchers and Scientists
The R/V Bob Dylan can accommodate six scientists and a boat operator. During transit, everyone sits and chats in the cabin with the captain, creating a collaborative and engaging atmosphere.
Supporting Groundbreaking Research
Scripps PhD student Eric Snyder uses the R/V Bob Dylan to deploy and recover High-frequency Acoustic Recording Packages (HARPs) for his research on the behavior of deep diving whales. Meanwhile, Margaret Morris, another Scripps PhD student, uses sonar to find submerged archaeological sites that will give clues towards understanding how the first humans arrived and lived in Southern California.
Vanessa ZoBell, another researcher at Scripps, has used the R/V Bob Dylan twice for her research on ship noise impacts on humpback and fin whales in the Santa Barbara Channel. Additionally, Scripps researchers are working on building a transducer, custom-made to fit the R/V Bob Dylan, to detect specific kinds of artifacts, such as stone tools.
Exploring Deeper Waters
The R/V Bob Dylan is also used for investigating archaeological sites that are deeper than divers are able to go, with the help of a mini-ROV. This allows researchers to map and explore these sites, expanding our understanding of coastal sites where ancient civilizations once flourished.
Safety Measures During the COVID-19 Pandemic
Throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, the R/V Bob Dylan has remained operational, with scientists following new safety procedures to ensure everyone's wellbeing.
Training the Next Generation of Researchers
Scripps researchers are training students to help do all the operations to run a deck safely for deploying and recovering instruments on the R/V Bob Dylan. This hands-on experience not only aids in the smooth operation of the vessel but also provides students with valuable skills for their future careers in marine research.
The R/V Bob Dylan is available for use by scientists, engineers, students, and educators. Its smaller size, versatile operation, and intimate research experience make it a valuable asset for Scripps Oceanography and the wider scientific community.
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