At the present time, the HMSC lacks common-use small boats, a situation that will hopefully be remedied in the future. Small boat rentals are possible in Newport, as are tours of the estuary or whale watching trips, (for example through Marine Discovery Tours) or charter fishing opportunities.
Research or class use can also utilize the R/V Elakha, a 54-foot oceanographic research vessel, berthed at the Hatfield Marine Science Center. The vessel’s structure is welded aluminum and is diesel powered (both main engine and generator). It can hold up to 14 scientists/students inside Yaquina Bay or other inland waters (limited by number of life jackets). It can hold up to 9 for trips less than 12 hours offshore (limited by life raft capacity) and up to 2 for longer trips offshore where two operators will be required (limited by sleeping accommodations).
Range is limited to 400 nm. Nighttime operations may be conducted, but the normal use of the boat is for cruises less than 12 hours and mostly during daylight hours.