Research vessel
VesselConnect

A Global Web App to Unlock Ocean Research

The only web app designed to systematically connect researchers with research vessels worldwide.

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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.

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 no longer stayed active, yet the need for access to research 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. The app provides not only connections, but also critical information to scientists, research institutions, vessel owners and operators, governments, businesses, NGOs, and funders. It transforms a fragmented system into a coordinated, scalable network for ocean access.

VesselConnect web app

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.

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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, Funders and Businesses

  • 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.

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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

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.