Citizen Science Engagement – April 2026

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Project Overview/Introduction

The International SeaKeepers Society (SeaKeepers) proudly recognizes the following DISCOVERY Vessels for their involvement in Citizen Science initiatives throughout April 2026. Our Citizen Science program engages yacht owners, boaters, and crew in global ocean conservation by supporting marine research through data collection during regular voyages. These meaningful expeditions do not require scientists onboard and instead rely on community participation to contribute to ongoing oceanographic research and environmental monitoring efforts.

Seabed 2030 Project

The following DISCOVERY Vessels enrolled in support of the Seabed 2030 initiative, helping to map the ocean floor in support of The Nippon Foundation-GEBCO Seabed 2030 Project.

Vessel Name Location Chapter
Always South Pacific South Pacific

ORCA OceanWatchers

The following DISCOVERY Vessels enrolled in support of ORCA OceanWatchers, a citizen science program that uses a mobile app and online training to help participants collect data on whales, dolphins, and porpoises. This data supports marine habitat monitoring and the identification of key areas for protection.

Vessel Name Location Chapter
Last Straw New Zealand South Pacific
Teleost New Zealand South Pacific

EyeSea

The following DISCOVERY Vessels enrolled in support of Eyesea by capturing geotagged images of marine pollution such as plastics, oil spills, and debris. This data helps map pollution sources and informs cleanup and prevention strategies.

Vessel Name Location Chapter
Last Straw New Zealand South Pacific

Shark Observations with The Shark Trust

The following DISCOVERY Vessels enrolled in support of The Shark Trust’s Shark Log citizen science initiative, which collects global sightings data of sharks, skates, and rays. By recording observations through the Shark Trust app or website, participants contribute to a year-round database that improves understanding of species distribution, seasonal presence, and population trends while advancing elasmobranch conservation worldwide.

Vessel Name Location Chapter
Last Straw New Zealand South Pacific

CoralWatch

The following DISCOVERY Vessels enrolled in support of CoralWatch by recording coral health using a standardized color chart. These observations help track bleaching events and support global reef conservation efforts.

Vessel Name Location Chapter
Last Straw New Zealand South Pacific