Lessons learnt by four fieldwork rookies

1. Remember and listen carefully to names

This tops our list for good reason – it’s essential for a successful fieldwork experience! During fieldwork, you’ll often meet many new people, and remembering their names shows respect, builds rapport, and helps you avoid awkward moments later. And it’s not just names— nicknames matter too! For example, we spent over three weeks calling a photographer (whom we chatted with daily) the wrong nickname. At home, we'd debate whether his nickname was “Biggles” or “Miggles.” Even after asking his wife, we still couldn’t agree on the pronunciation. Spoiler: it was “Miggles” all along. Hopefully, the boat's engine noise and loudspeaker masked our repeated “Biggles” blunder!

Lesson learned: if you're unsure about a name or nickname, ask them to spell it out the first time. It saves a lot of awkwardness later!

2. Learn the ins and outs of your tools

Using apps and tablets for logging data can be a game-changer—but only if you know how to use them. It took us about a week to figure out some key features and shortcuts. Save yourself the headache: get familiar with your tools before you hit the field.

3. Communicate with your teammates

Whether you’re on a small research boat or a crowded tourist vessel, clear communication is vital. Between engine noise, loudspeakers, and general commotion, it can be tough to get your message across. Whether it’s hand signs or codewords, find a system that works for you, and make sure everyone’s on the same page. It's also essential to check in with your partner whenever possible—not just about the data, but also about how they’re feeling (those rocky days on the boat can take a toll). Keep each other accountable, too—it’s easy to get distracted by an interesting bird or a friendly tourist eager to strike up a conversation.

4. Trust your own observations and counts.

Onboard enthusiasm can be contagious, but it’s important to rely on your own data. We overheard people excitedly chatting about “54 dolphins” spotted in the distance. While their enthusiasm was great, numbers tend to get exaggerated for storytelling. Trust what you and your team observe directly—you’re the expert, and accurate data is your top priority.

5. Check the camera settings every day

If your photos suddenly start looking odd, it’s probably not the camera—it’s you! We spent two days scratching our heads over overexposed photos before realising someone had accidentally changed the settings. Lesson: check your camera settings daily. And if something seems off, hand it to a teammate for a second opinion. Sometimes it’s as simple as flipping a switch.

6. Get to know the area and locals

The locals can help you discover some hidden gems, like:

• the best local café for that early morning caffeine hit

• he top track for a scenic run

• where to spot wombats (and other amazing local wildlife)!

  
  

Building connections can make your fieldwork experience even more rewarding while also fostering a meaningful exchange of knowledge. You’ll learn fascinating insights from the locals, and in turn, you can share facts and findings they might not have known!

7. Go to the bathroom before you get on the boat

Especially after that glorious morning coffee! Take every bathroom opportunity before boarding—trust us, it’s much easier when the toilet isn’t rocking with the waves.

8. Be prepared for bootcamp.

This might not be relevant to all fieldwork trips, but it was definitely part of our experience. When you have a hardworking supervisor, chances are that they are also really into exercise! While participation wasn’t mandatory*, it was strongly encouraged. After a long day on the boat, moving and stretching your body felt pretty good—though we weren’t exactly ready for a “100-squat warm-up.”

*she made us write that

9. Spending every day on a boat for a month does not guarantee you will see your study species.

Yes, you read that right. After an entire month of fieldwork, we didn’t spot a single Bryde’s whale, our target species. Luckily, we saw plenty of other fascinating wildlife! Fieldwork isn’t always predictable, but that’s part of the adventure.

10. Enjoy your time and the people you’re with

If you’re lucky enough to have a great team, fieldwork can be one of the most rewarding experiences of your life. Take time to enjoy free moments together*—whether it’s frisbee on the beach, shared meals, or a cold beer after a long day.

*yes, even the exercise

Final Thoughts

Fieldwork is unpredictable, challenging, and sometimes a bit awkward—but it’s also deeply rewarding. For the four of us, it stands out as one of the best experiences we’ve ever had. While every fieldwork journey is unique, these are the lessons we wish we’d known beforehand. Hopefully, they’ll help you make the most of your first marine fieldwork adventure!

Authors: Lavinia Stokes, Elise Beaumont, Will Perkins & Benjamin Laforet