Join the DISCOVERY Fleet
Donate time on your vessel by joining the DISCOVERY Fleet, a network of boats supporting ocean research, conservation, and education through SeaKeepers programs.
Joining the DISCOVERY Program Is Easy
Simply complete the DISCOVERY Application below and click submit. Our programming team will review your submission to match your vessel with the most suitable research and outreach opportunities.
This initial profile will provide us with essential information for matching an expedition to your interests and vessel capabilities. Once we review your application, we will reach out to you with more specifics about the program and possible projects that may be a good match. Further documentation typically required before an expedition includes Captain’s License, Proof of Insurance, Vessel Registration, Load Line Certificate (if applicable), and Stability Letter or Equivalent (if applicable).
Why Donate a Vessel to SeaKeepers?
Year-round, SeaKeepers DISCOVERY Program is our foremost initiative in accomplishing our mission and goals, facilitating programming by providing access to the ocean for research, scientific discovery, community engagement, educational outreach and citizen science. From hosting learning excursions for underprivileged kids to facilitating scientific research for genome sequencing, yachts are the platform to enable accomplishments. SeaKeepers collaborates with numerous organizations, academic institutions, and government agencies in order to accomplish its DISCOVERY missions. SeaKeepers staff work closely with yacht owners and crew to coordinate research and outreach activities that reflect the yacht owner’s ocean-related interests.
Scientist-Led Expeditions
Scientist-led expeditions provide yacht owners, guests, and crew the opportunity to participate in ongoing research while engaging with influential, well-established marine scientists. The largest expense and frequent limiting factor in ocean research is access to an at-sea research platform. Using member yachts, SeaKeepers works with universities, marine institutions, NGOs and experts in the marine science and oceanography fields to promote and facilitate groundbreaking research.
Citizen Science
Citizen science initiatives provide vessel owners a unique chance to engage in hands-on marine research without the need for scientists on board. These projects enable owners and crew to independently conduct activities such as water testing, deploying oceanographic instruments, and collecting specimens and data, actively supporting ongoing research efforts with our program partners.
Educational Outreach
SeaKeepers outreach events focus on marine wildlife, plastic pollution, sustainability practices, and more. DISCOVERY Program provide an exceptional opportunity for students to witness marine science research first-hand in a “floating classroom” experience. Scientists and educators participate in field trips on the water to provide an in-depth learning encounter for students. Participants range from local schools to national organizations.
Would You Like to Know More?
Learn more about the program, types of expeditions and outreach programs undertaken by our members, expeditions currently in need of a vessel, and more on our DISCOVERY Program page.