Alaska Research Charters
Harlequin Duck research.
Captain Dean Rand and the Discovery crew have been involved in numerous scientific research projects in Prince William Sound.
Dean's blend of experience with ship building, mechanics and natural history provide a resourceful advantage when working in remote regions like the Sound. Often, research occurs over periods of days or weeks and the ability to stay at sea on a reliable vessel is vital. Dean is well-experienced at making this happen. The innovative and creative problem solving demands of remote field work are well know to all experienced in this type of work, and the asset of Captain Rand's experience and resourcefulness is invaluable.
The Discovery has worked with many organizations that conduct studies and projects in Prince William Sound including:
Banding a Surf Scoter Duck.
- U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service
- National Marine Fisheries Service
- U.S. Dept. of Agriculture Forest Service
- U.S. Geological Service Biological Resource Division
- University of Alaska
- Simon Fraser University
- Alaska Dept. of Fish & Game
- Alaska Dept. of Environmental Conservation
- Alaska Dept. of Natural Resources
Over the years the Discovery has participated in numerous research projects, some are listed below:
Capturing Harlequin
Ducks in mist nets.
- Winter sea bird surveys
- Spring bird migration surveys
- Pacific Herring spawn deposition studies
- Pacific Herring pathology research
- Sea Otter population surveys
- Sea Otter radio tracking & forage study
- Harlequin Duck capture and radio telemetry tracking studies
- Marbled & Kitlitz Murrelet studies
- Surf Scoter satellite telemetry tracking
- River Otter surveys and radio tracking
- Bear population surveys and genetic sampling
- Salmon fry survival studies
- Intertidal invertebrate research
- Humpback & Orca whale census and identification studies
- Various wildlife and historical film documentaries
The vessel is well suited for research projects, with interior table space, overhead winches and storage space on the deck and top of the vessel. Dean is also highly experienced with the specific locations in Prince William Sound that serve as safe anchorage during inclement weather, commonly encountered during the winter season.
Please call Discovery Voyages directly at 1-800-324-7602 to discuss the details of your charter needs.
