SeaKeepers DISCOVERY Program

Citizen Science

Make an essential contribution to marine research while enjoying your boat or yacht at sea.

What Are the DISCOVERY Program’s Citizen Science Projects?

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These projects give vessel owners the opportunity to contribute independently to marine research initiatives. Unlike Scientist-Led Expeditions, citizen science projects do not require experts on board. Instead, vessel owners, their guests, and crews can conduct important research activities themselves, with the results contributing directly to expanding our knowledge of marine ecosystems. 

Opportunities include instrument deployments, sample collections, and wildlife observations. Vessels of any size are welcome, and owners can apply for tax benefits and choose to receive recognition through SeaKeepers events, newsletters, and our website. 

These expeditions provide a unique opportunity for participants to contribute to ongoing scientific studies while enjoying their boat or yacht and the beauty of the ocean. Through this program, hundreds of vessels have participated in science activities around the world, collecting valuable data that aids in ocean conservation efforts.

Citizen Science Completed Projects

Explore SeaKeepers' past citizen science activities and discover the impactful programs we've completed. Navigate through the highlights below to learn about the partners and vessels that have been part of these initiatives.mpleted. Navigate through the highlights below to learn about the partners and vessels that have been part of these initiatives.

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Traverse 2025

Mike Golding OBE Participates in Seabed 2030 Project

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Key of Sea

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Katharine

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Luzerne

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Lady Olivia

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Exuma 2

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Exuma

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World Odyssey

Current Citizen Science Projects Available

Citizen science has a long tradition in many fields, from astronomy to zoology, and marine conservation is no different. Multiple SeaKeepers projects connect the international yachting community with scientific initiatives that rely on contributions from the public. Explore the opportunities below.

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image of Coral Reef Photo Monitoring in the Great Barrier Reef

Coral Reef Photo Monitoring in the Great Barrier Reef

image of Tracking White Sharks with Environmental DNA

Tracking White Sharks with Environmental DNA

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Connected by the Reef

image of CoralWatch: Monitoring Coral Health Globally

CoralWatch: Monitoring Coral Health Globally

image of ORCA OceanWatchers

ORCA OceanWatchers

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Humpback Whale Sightings

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Eyesea: Mapping Pollution to Protect the Ocean

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Microplastics Detection in Icelandic Water Sources

Citizen Science DISCOVERY Vessels

Become part of a global community dedicated to protecting our oceans.

DISCOVERY Program Results

250+

Vessels
A global network of member vessels advancing marine research, citizen science, and education.

260+

Expeditions
Supporting groundbreaking research on marine ecosystems, climate change, ocean plastics, biodiversity.

500+

Projects
Driving pioneering projects that encourage scientists and students to explore ocean health.

200+

Partners
Partnering with top scientists, institutions, environmental groups, and vessel owners to drive ocean conservation.

85k+

Students
Inspiring students globally through hands-on marine science programs, fostering the next generation of ocean stewards.

6k+

Volunteers
We have mobilized volunteers in marine conservation efforts, making a tangible impact on our oceans through hands-on action.

15+

Countries
Continue to expand our reach across the world, advancing marine research and education on a global scale.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is The International SeaKeepers Society?

SeaKeepers is a global registered not-for-profit organization dedicated to ocean conservation. Our initiatives rely on the energy and generosity of people around the world who share our concern for the health of the oceans and, by extension, the survival of our planet. 

Our core initiative is the DISCOVERY Program, which facilitates marine research and ocean education through partnerships with the boating and academic communities. We coordinate scientific and educational expeditions through the generosity of vessel owners willing to contribute their time and expertise.

You can add your vessel to our DISCOVERY vessel fleet by filling out this form.

Citizen Science refers to scientific research conducted by amateur or nonprofessional scientists. SeaKeepers engages yacht owners and their crews to collect environmental data during their voyages, contributing to research and conservation efforts.

Yes, SeaKeepers offers several Citizen Science opportunities, allowing yacht owners and crew to collect data for oceanographic research while they’re at sea. 

The DISCOVERY Program accepts vessels of all sizes. Fill out this form to begin the process and see which expeditions match your vessel and your interests.

Our team will work with you to find DISCOVERY Program activities that match your interests and your vessel’s capabilities and itinerary. 

SeaKeepers is a supporter and trusted node of the Seabed 2030 Project, a global initiative to map the entire ocean floor by 2030. We organize our DISCOVERY Fleet vessels to contribute to this effort by making citizen science data collections.

SeaKeepers International Partners