Scientists employ luxury yachts for furthering marine research

Robert Brewin spent two years collecting data on a superyacht owned by late hedge fund investor James Simons. The yacht, equipped with luxurious amenities, also featured a Sea-Bird Scientific Solar Tracking System to measure light reflected from the water. Brewin, along with colleagues from the University of Exeter, studied microplankton by analyzing the color of the ocean, using the Sea-Bird’s readings to verify satellite images. Their findings were published in a study that highlighted the potential of using superyachts for scientific research.

The Yacht Club of Monaco and the Explorers Club have been promoting the use of superyachts for scientific research. Yachts for Science, a four-year-old organization, provides private yachts to scientists in need of time at sea, facilitating about $1 million worth of donated yacht time this year. Other initiatives, such as Rob McCallum’s EYOS Expeditions, also charter yachts for research purposes to fill the gaps in research capacity and promote ocean conservation.

Efforts to increase ocean research are crucial as research vessel demand exceeds supply, particularly in light of the crucial role the oceans play in absorbing CO2 emissions and excess heat. G. Mark Miller, founder of Greenwater Marine Sciences Offshore, advocates for the building of more functional research vessels at affordable prices to boost ocean research in underserved regions like the Asia-Pacific. These initiatives aim to foster interest in science and research among the public while advancing crucial understanding of the marine environment.

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