T-ARS Money and Operations

The tasking and operational cycle for T-ARS vessels varies based on real-world demands. Their operational tempo hinges on how often they are called to respond to rescue or salvage missions. While these vessels might not frequently receive such calls, they are old ships that typically require annual maintenance periods in shipyards. Beyond dive or salvage operations, T-ARS vessels may be tasked with training foreign divers or participating in “Goodwill” missions to showcase U.S. presence globally, often visiting unique and exotic ports. With a decompression chamber onboard, they are also prepared for emergency assignments during real-world events.

As mentioned, the tasking for T-ARS vessels depends on real-world events, but these ships typically spend more time in port than at sea. Due to the limited number of rescue and salvage operations, the vessels, which are small and handle roughly in bad weather, often wait for favorable conditions before getting underway. Their slower transit speeds and limited capacity also reduce their long-term endurance, leading to frequent port stops even between destinations.

While these vessels have the lowest base pay in the MSC, the opportunity for extra earnings through overtime can be substantial. Due to the small crew size, T-ARS vessels often allow for a generous amount of overtime, although this varies based on the ship’s budget, the captain, and operational demands. If tasked with a tow or salvage operation, the workload and overtime hours typically increase. Additionally, the T-ARS may serve as a training platform for new Dynamic Positioning (DP) class vessels, which are in the highest base-pay tier.

While not required, you can obtain your towing endorsement during your time aboard a T-ARS should the opportunity to tow a vessel arise. This class of vessel offers some of the best ship handling experiences for Deck Officers of every rank. Despite the low pay, they should not be discounted as they offer valuable experience.

The Deck department has about 7 personnel. They are responsible for the external portion of the ship and other deck work items. However, due to the small crew size, they also maintain the main deck in house, passageways, ladder wells and bathrooms. This would normally be handled by SUs on larger ships, but due to the limited manning the Deck department needs to assist.

Since the vessels are old, there is usually some sort of maintenance that needs to be performed. Expect to conduct routine maintenance on a lot of systems.

Expect to conduct routine maintenance on a lot of systems.

The Supply Department on T-ARS vessels is similar to that of T-EPF ships, staffed by a Junior Supply Officer, Steward Cook, Cook Baker, and two Supply Utilitymen. The Junior Supply Officer leads the department in an independent duty role, while the Steward Cook functions as the Chief Steward. The Cook Baker handles most of the cooking, with the Supply Utilitymen assisting wherever needed.

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The maritime industry can be unpredictable. Missions, ports, policies and procedures frequently changes, and not having the most up to date information is frustrating. If something we wrote needs an update, or if we missed something important that should be added or highlighted, drop us a line via the form below and we will work to get the information updated as soon as possible! Safe sailing!