VesselConnect — Greenwater Foundation

The Problem

The System-Level Challenge

Ocean science is not limited by ideas—it is limited by access. Despite billions invested globally, vessel capacity is fragmented across institutions, governments, and private operators. Access pathways are complex and opaque, coordination across stakeholders is minimal, and existing infrastructure is underutilized.

Vessel capacity is fragmented across institutions and private operators
Access pathways are complex and opaque
Coordination across stakeholders is minimal
Existing infrastructure is significantly underutilized

For decades, the U.S. National Science Foundation funded The Ocean Information Center (OCEANIC), the go-to database for research vessel information. When funding ended over 5 years ago, the database went dark—yet the need for vessels remained.

85%

of ocean research is never conducted due to lack of access to vessels

Our Solution

The Solution: VesselConnect

VesselConnect is the only web app designed to systematically provide connections to research vessels for scientists and research institutions, vessel owners and operators, and governments, NGOs, and funders. It transforms a fragmented system into a coordinated, scalable network for ocean access.

How It Works

How the Web App Works

Search a global database of 550+ research vessels and marine assets
Filter by capabilities, geography, and mission requirements
Identify appropriate vessels for specific scientific objectives
Connect directly with vessel operators

This dramatically reduces the time, cost, and complexity of securing access.

Search the Vessel Database ↗

Who It Serves

What VesselConnect Enables

For Scientists

Faster identification of suitable vessels
Reduced time from concept to deployment
Increased ability to execute research

For Vessel Operators

Increased utilization of vessels
Connection to high-impact missions
Improved visibility and efficiency

For Governments and Funders

Visibility into global research infrastructure
Improved coordination of research efforts
Better-informed funding decisions

Infrastructure for Ocean Science

Strategic Value

VesselConnect is not simply a tool—it is critical infrastructure for ocean science. It enables more efficient use of existing assets, increased research output without new capital investment, and coordination across fragmented global systems.

Search the Global Vessel Database ↗

Roadmap

Next Phase Development

Real-time vessel tracking and availability
Expanded global database of vessels and assets
Integrated mapping, data, and mission planning tools
Multi-stakeholder coordination support

Long-Term Vision

VesselConnect will become the central web app for coordinating ocean research globally—connecting access, data, and decision-making into one integrated system.