SCIENTISTS - GET INVOLVED
Expression of interest with submission of a research project or special project such as deployment of ocean science equipment will be considered. The review process can take up to one month.
The projects are then either matched with available yachts or held on record and matched with vessels if/when they become available. Typically held for three years and then reviewed.
Yachts for Science connects the lead scientist with the yacht team directly to implement the project. Once a favorable match is made, both parties (representative for the boat and lead scientist) must sign a disclaimer before taking the mission further (Disclaimer details attached in the download forms above).
Once a project has been approved we contact you for a quick introductory interview and possible video submission of the project. This supports promotion of the project through our channels.
Project is undertaken with specific responsibilities to provide; including sharing content and imagery for promotion during and after the project by Yachts for Science and our Media partner BOAT International and including founding partners, OFF, Nekton and EYOS
The progress of each successful match is tacked for progress, including for eventual impact of research.
SELECTION & IMPLEMENTATION
PROJECT CONSIDERATION
With the majority of yachts operating in the Mediterranean and Caribbean, matches in these areas are made generally faster. Regions such as Polar, Indian and Pacific Ocean and Asia generally require longer lead times to accommodate advanced forward planning for vessels.
The average length of the project if it involves scientists on board should be 1 - 2 weeks. Shorter periods are easier to match. Keeping the core team on the yacht and associated team members on the shore has a higher chance of matching with a yacht, where research allows.
If a scientist needs access to a yacht in order to fit equipment or technology that could aid research, the timeframe could be much longer.
Very few yachts have the capability to support complex marine research operations such as submersibles, so consideration should be given to the suitability of the project to the yacht environment.
Most yachts will be able to provide SCUBA, small boats (tenders) and the ability to deploy small equipment via winches and cranes.
Projects that deliver tangible and positive impact to improve the health of the ocean will be considered favorably.
Selected projects will be provided with access to use the vessel and on board equipment to undertake their work with all board and lodging etc. provided for free.
Projects will need to secure their own permits for research.
Projects must be self-funded to complete the stated objective. Projects with funding already secured will be prioritised but projects without funding will also be considered to enable projects to use the ship time as matched funding for grants. No funding will be made available to support the project – including travel to/from the vessel.
Project leaders must have experience of successful expeditions and knowledge generation, evidence of past expeditions can be submitted in a covering note.
Where possible all data generated should be shared with the host nation as a priority, and open access on completion of scientific publications where possible.
In all related publications, acknowledgment should be given to the vessel’s contributed research time, with attribution specified as provided by Yachts for Science, unless alternative wording is requested by the vessel operator.
SUBMIT A PROJECT FORM
If you are a scientist or researcher requesting vessel time, please submit an application using the form below.
Ensure that you review all guidance provided, including the disclaimers at the end of the form, as they outline essential conditions related to the work carried out.
