Preliminary Report Eastern Area Cruise No. 38 Itinerary: 22 March 2030 Depart San Diego 24 March 0835 Arrive Pt. Ash 28 March 1030 Depart Grid between Points Hemlock & Juniper 29 March 1100 Arrive San Diego Personnel: Robert L. DeLong (Biologist in Charge) Robert L. Brownell Vernon M. Kleen Survey Vessel: M.V. Sioux City Methods Diurnal observations were conducted from the open flying bridge. Excellent observations can be made from here and it is quite comfortable for the observers. Since the ship is also piloted from this bridge, the true and magnetic course as well as the ship's speed are available and can be used to determine flight direction of the birds and movements of the mammals. Nocturnal watches were not made. Weather conditions did not allow use of the Boston Whaler. No bird specimens were taken; how- ever, one small cetacean was harpooned from the bow and collected. Cruise Track The Grid was followed reasonably well the first three days, but trouble with the ship and rough seas caused us to alter the course about midway between Points Elm and Fir. Due to continued problems the ship returned to San Diego. After variable changes of course (see Figure 1) we departed the Grid at 1030 hours on 28 March between Points Hemlock and Juniper. Conditions Weather was unfavorable during the first four days in the Grid with heavy northwest winds, rough seas and swells ranging to 15 feet. The skies were overcast with rain squalls in the distance. The ship averaged only 7-1/2 knots into the wind and up to 10 knots when moving with it. The sun appeared through the partially cloudy skies on the 28th and winds subsided. Fog set in during the night of the 28th and finally disap- peared just before the ship arrived in San Diego. Highlights Near complete disappearance of Fulmars, Black-legged Kittiwakes, and Glaucous-winged Gulls.