Today, we celebrate the lifeblood of our planet—the ocean that connects, sustains, and inspires us. For the past two years, we’ve been sailing across the Caribbean, collecting vital oceanographic data to support science, education, and climate resilience in coastal communities.
Using our onboard CTD system, we measure temperature, salinity, and other essential biogeochemical variables —data that helps researchers understand tropical storm formation, coral reef health, and climate change impacts.
But Sail for Science is more than data—it’s a call for citizen science under sail, proving that even a small boat can make big waves in the name of ocean conservation.
Whether you’re a sailor, a student, a scientist, or just an ocean lover, —you are partof thesolution. Let’s protect what we love.
An important part of our project “Sail for Science” aboard SV Oceanolog is connecting with fellow sailors—and not just over sundowners at the bar or grilled fish by the barbecue. While casual conversations often spark interest, we also love taking things a step further by organizing presentations and sharing our mission more formally.
During our stay at Shelter Bay Marina (Colon, Panama), we hosted just such an event in the marina lounge. I gave a presentation on our two-year expedition through the Caribbean Sea and introduced our CTD (Conductivity, Temperature, Depth) measuring system—the heart of our citizen oceanography work.
The talk covered current methods of collecting oceanographic data, from traditional ship-based CTD systems to autonomous Argo floats. I highlighted the gaps that still exist, particularly in coastal and island regions, and explained how small vessels like ours can play a vital role in closing those gaps.
Our live demo of the CTD system generated a lot of enthusiasm. Several attendees expressed interest in participating or even replicating our methods. The main hurdle, however, remains the cost—CTD systems are still relatively expensive for private cruisers. We discussed the need for funding mechanisms that could support sailors in contributing valuable data, such as grants channeled through research institutions.
Using sailboats to collect ocean data is not only cost-effective, but also has an incredibly low carbon footprint. It’s a sustainable model for grassroots science—and we hope to see it grow.
With time, we believe this project can become part of a global citizen science movement powered by the wind and driven by curiosity. After all, who better to help study the oceans than those already living on them?
As sailors, few feats of engineering inspire more awe than the Panama Canal—a waterway that connects not only oceans but entire worlds. So during our stopover in Panama, the crew of SV Oceanolog made a pilgrimage to the Miraflores Visitors Center, a front-row seat to the maritime marvel that has shaped global trade and navigation for over a century.
Arriving at the center, we were immediately struck by the scale of the operation. From the observation deck, we watched in fascination as massive car ships, tankers, and bulk carriers slowly transited the Miraflores Locks, rising and falling like leviathans tamed by human ingenuity. For sailors accustomed to narrow island anchorages and coral reefs, it was surreal to see vessels the size of city blocks lifted and lowered by nothing more than gravity, gears, and water.
Inside the center, we explored exhibits detailing the canal’s construction, its complex lock systems, and its environmental significance. But beyond the mechanics and history, our visit brought a new layer of reflection. The canal represents not just a shortcut between oceans, but a symbol of human persistence, cooperation, and adaptation. It reminded us of the importance of ocean-connected infrastructure—and of the delicate balance between industry and environment that must be maintained.
As we left the center and returned to Oceanolog, we carried with us a deeper appreciation for the canal, and for the global marine network we, in our small way, are also part of. Watching the giants pass through Miraflores, we were reminded that every boat, big or small, is connected by the same blue highways.
