The year 1963 began normally for "Ability" with operations out of Charleston in support of the Naval Mine Warfare School and the Naval Mine Defense Laboratory. That autumn, however, she added a new dimension to her operations which would remain a facet of her service for the remainder of her career. Late in September, the minesweeper stood out of Charleston bound for the Mediterranean Sea and her first tour of duty with the 6th Fleet. On 5 October, she reported for duty with the Commander, 6th Fleet, at Rota, Spain. "Ability" spent the next four months conducting minesweeping exercises, supporting amphibious landing exercises, and visiting various Mediterranean ports. On 12 February 1964, she completed turnover ceremonies at Rota, shaped a course for Charleston, and arrived back in her home port on 1 March 1964.