The College of the Atlantic maintains a small fleet of watercraft for use in academic and recreational programs. The College's flagship is the R.V. Indigo, a 40-foot diesel powered vessel equipped for plankton trawls, limited sample collection, and observation of seabirds and marine mammals. Indigo is fully Coast Guard certified for passengers in coastal waters. She has a double vee berth for comfort but can sleep more in the cabin in a pinch. The other principal COA work boat is the Laughing Gull, a 20-foot inboard/outboard that is suitable for field work and logistics around the nearer islands and in the bays. In addition, the college sailing flotilla consists of two Rhodes-19 and one O'Day-23 sailboats, and a gas-powered chase boat. We also maintain a number of dories and rowing boats for both recreational purposes and to facilitate landings on offshore islands. Allied Whale possesses hte 26-foot Borealis, and three hard-bottom inflatable boats that are used in its whale research.

Each autumn students can obtain sailing instruction from experienced sailors. Students wishing to participate in Coastal and Marine Studies activities are encouraged to develop small-boat skills, both as part of classes and as they engage in field research. Selected work-study students can apprentice with the Marine Superintendent, a licensed captain, who will be glad to teach you about sailing, marine navigation, marine construction and maintenence, etc.