DISCOVERY Yacht Expedition Grant Program

The DISCOVERY Yacht Expedition Grant Program, managed by the International SeaKeepers Society, invites marine scientists to submit research proposals for expeditions on private vessels. This initiative promotes ocean research, education, and conservation through high-impact projects. Each proposal must demonstrate scientific significance and outline participant roles. A Principal Investigator is required to secure necessary permits, ensuring a collaborative and impactful research experience at sea.

Need a Vessel for Your Research Project?
Submit a Proposal
The International SeaKeepers Society is currently accepting research proposals for DISCOVERY Yacht expeditions. The SeaKeepers DISCOVERY Yachts program provides marine scientists with a unique and cost-effective platform for at-sea research by placing researchers on privately owned vessels to conduct oceanographic research. SeaKeepers is committed to promoting ocean research, education, and conservation. We are looking for high-impact projects that support our missions, foster scientific collaboration, and stimulate further exploration.
How It Works
For each expedition, a scientist is paired with a vessel that can meet the research expedition’s needs, including location, itinerary, and vessel specifications as outlined in the research proposal. The yacht owner’s scientific interests are also taken into account when pairing scientists and their projects with DISCOVERY vessels. Therefore, it is important that submitted proposals speak to the scientific significance of the project, the outreach and broader impact potential, and the proposed involvement of the owners, guests, and crew on board. A Principal Investigator (PI) is responsible for obtaining and financing any required research permits. Travel expenses to/from the vessel are not usually covered.

Eligibility

Only the Principal Investigator (PI) may submit a proposal. The PI for an expedition must have a 4-year college degree and at least two years work experience in the field. The PI must be affiliated with a reputable academic, government, private or not-for-profit institution or organization. The PI must have support from his/her institution and be able to acquire all necessary permits for the proposed expedition. As described in the submitted proposal, each participant must fill a necessary role during the expedition. All research team participants must be at least 18 years old and have a valid driver’s license or identification card. For expeditions outside the United States, a passport is required. All participants are expected to have health insurance.There is no limit to the number of submitted or accepted proposals by a PI. However, a PI submitting project proposals on overlapping themes will reduce the likelihood of the proposals being accepted.