Turning Luxury Into Legacy: How The International SeaKeepers Society Is Leading Ocean Conservation
- Yachting International Radio
- Oct 27
- 2 min read
When private yachts transform into platforms for science, the ocean wins. The International SeaKeepers Society is proving that the luxury yachting world can become a driving force for Ocean Conservation, connecting owners, scientists, and communities to protect the planet’s most vital ecosystem.
“We work with the private yachting community around the world and harness their power to support Ocean Conservation, research, and education.”— Gill Rodrigues, Director of International Partnerships, The International SeaKeepers Society
Headquartered in Miami, Florida, SeaKeepers now operates through a truly global network. With established regional chapters in Asia (Singapore & Bangladesh), the United Kingdom, and the South Pacific (New Zealand) — and growing collaborations in Mexico and beyond — the organization’s reach extends to more than 15 countries worldwide.
This broad footprint reflects a single, powerful mission: to unite the yachting community with marine researchers, educators, and conservationists to advance Ocean Conservation on a global scale.
The Discovery Yacht Program: Science at Sea
At the core of SeaKeepers’ success is the Discovery Yacht Program — a global network of more than 200 vessels ready to deploy for marine research, education, and environmental action in service of Ocean Conservation.
Science: Providing scientists access to yachts as mobile research stations.
Citizen Science: Empowering owners and crews to collect vital ocean data.
Education: Introducing students to the sea through hands-on experiences.
Community Engagement: Hosting cleanups, workshops, and local initiatives that spread awareness of Ocean Conservation.
“What inspires us most is when researchers tell us, ‘You helped us achieve something that would have taken years without your help.’ That’s what keeps us going.”— Gill Rodrigues
From Deck to Discovery
Each collaboration between a yacht and a research group accelerates change. From tracking marine mammals to collecting microplastic samples, these partnerships shorten timelines, expand reach, and strengthen results for Ocean Conservation.
Inspiring the Next Generation of Ocean Stewards
SeaKeepers believes Ocean Conservation starts with education. Their programs bring children and local communities out on the water — many for the first time — to experience the ocean they are helping to protect. By turning awareness into action, SeaKeepers is cultivating future scientists, advocates, and leaders who will advance Ocean Conservation.
“Never underestimate the power of what you can do. Come forward — perhaps we can do some amazing research on your boat.”— Gill Rodrigues
One Ocean, One Future
In a time when ocean health is under threat from pollution, overfishing, and climate change, SeaKeepers’ collaborative approach to Ocean Conservation has never been more vital. Through unity, access, and shared purpose, the yachting community is redefining what it means to leave a legacy — one rooted not in ownership, but in Ocean Conservation.
About The International SeaKeepers Society
Founded in 1998, The International SeaKeepers Society connects yacht owners, scientists, and educators to advance Ocean Conservation through research, citizen science, and community outreach. Its Discovery Yacht Program turns vessels of luxury into vessels of purpose — empowering real-world impact on the water.
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