T&T Currently on First Locally Led Deep-Sea Expedition Set for 28 Days

Trinidad and Tobago Leads Historic Deep-Sea Expedition

Trinidad and Tobago is currently making marine-science history as a locally led team explores the country’s deep waters and nearby areas of the high seas.

The Deep Wonders of Trinidad and Tobago and the High Seas Expedition began on June 29, 2026, and is scheduled to continue until July 28 aboard the Schmidt Ocean Institute’s advanced research vessel, R/V Falkor (too).

The 28-day mission is the first Trinidad and Tobago-led scientific expedition dedicated to exploring the country’s deep waters.

Scientists from Trinidad and Tobago and other countries are examining largely unexplored marine environments, collecting important baseline information about deep-sea biodiversity, geology and ecosystems.

Nearly 93 per cent of Trinidad and Tobago’s marine jurisdiction lies below recreational scuba-diving depths, while almost 70 per cent is classified as deep sea. Despite covering such a large area, much of this underwater environment has never been scientifically examined in detail.

The expedition is being conducted through a collaboration involving SpeSeas and the Schmidt Ocean Institute, with a primarily Trinidad and Tobago team led by deep-sea biologist Dr Diva Amon.

Researchers are expected to investigate potential methane seeps, mud volcanoes, mesophotic coral reefs and other habitats surrounding the islands and within neighbouring international waters.

The team is using advanced mapping, imaging and sampling equipment to document the seafloor and the organisms living within these environments. The mission also includes the Deep Ocean Research and Imaging System, known as DORIS, an underwater camera and sensor platform designed to make deep-sea research more accessible and cost-effective.

The expedition comes as international attention continues to focus on the protection of marine biodiversity beyond national borders. The United Nations agreement on biodiversity beyond national jurisdiction supports conservation, scientific cooperation and capacity building, particularly for small-island developing states such as Trinidad and Tobago.

Members of the public can follow the expedition through live broadcasts provided by the Schmidt Ocean Institute, offering viewers an opportunity to see underwater dives and possible discoveries as they happen.

SpeSeas and the Schmidt Ocean Institute are also sharing scientific updates, photographs and behind-the-scenes material throughout the mission.

The expedition represents a major opportunity to improve knowledge of Trinidad and Tobago’s marine territory while strengthening the country’s capacity to lead future deep-sea research and conservation initiatives.

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