About Us
Meeting the Need
The Problem
There are not enough research vessels available.
Imagine a world where 85% of scientists’ requests to study the ocean are denied simply because there aren’t enough research vessels available. This is the reality facing the ocean research community.
A recent NOAA study revealed that researchers annually request 15,000-20,000 days at sea of the NOAA fleet. However, in 2019, the fleet could only fulfill a mere 11-15% of these requests, leaving a significant gap in our understanding of the ocean.
This critical shortage of research vessels limits our ability to conduct vital marine science research that is crucial for ensuring economic prosperity, national and homeland security, food safety and security, sustainable resource management, and protecting lives and livelihoods.
With over 20 years of experience operating and managing NOAA research vessels, retired NOAA Corps Officer and GMSO founder Commander G. Mark Miller commissioned this study while at NOAA, immediately recognizing the urgent need for innovative solutions. This problem of limited vessel availability extends beyond NOAA, affecting government agencies, universities, and non-governmental organizations worldwide.
GMSO was founded to address this critical gap and empower the ocean research community.
Our Solution
GMSO provides a solution to the critical shortage of research vessels by offering a globally dispersed fleet of right-sized, efficiently designed, and professionally staffed vessels at affordable prices. Our fleet offers a diverse range of vessel sizes and capabilities, ensuring the scientific community has access to the optimal platform for their research needs. This empowers scientists and explorers, enabling them to undertake at-sea projects that were previously unattainable due to budget constraints or vessel inaccessibility.
Meet the Fleet
Unlocking the Potential of Ocean Science
By making ocean research more accessible and affordable, GMSO empowers scientists and explorers to unlock the vast potential of the ocean. From exploring the deep sea to studying coastal ecosystems, GMSO provides the right vessel, crew, and support to get your research project underway.
Our Mission
GMSO facilitates science at sea, expanding ocean research opportunities for all scientists and explorers by providing efficient and professionally staffed research vessels.
Our Core Values
Who we are forms the foundation of how we do business at GMSO.
Operational
expertise
Agile
adaptability
Intentional
efficiency
Dedicated
to the sea
Our Approach
Experienced crew
GMSO employs experienced maritime professionals, including NOAA and USCG veterans, possessing both operational expertise and a deep understanding of scientific principles.
Controlling costs
GMSO maximizes efficiency and minimizes costs by operating a diverse fleet, with a focus on small, simply designed research vessels ideally suited for multi-day, near-shore, and coastal research.
Collaborative partnering
GMSO fosters alliances to advance ocean research, anticipate market opportunities, and deliver tailored solutions for marine science and exploration.
Strategic foundation
GMSO is building a foundation for long-term success through key government collaborations and reinvestment in fleet expansion.
Readily accessible
GMSO’s efficient and economical fleet supports the research needs of university students, early-career scientists, NGOs, and other organizations lacking access to traditional research vessels.
