Expedition: Strengthening Knowledge of our Marae Moana

Later this week, the Cook Islands will welcome the arrival of the exploration vessel E/V Nautilus, a world-class platform for deep-sea discovery. Over the course of a 21-day science research cruise beginning 1 October 2025, the Seabed Minerals Authority (SBMA) and its partners will work alongside the Nautilus team to explore and better understand the hidden depths of Marae Moana.

Operated by the U.S. non-profit Ocean Exploration Trust (OET) and supported by the U.S. National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) through the Ocean Exploration Cooperative Institute, E/V Nautilus will work alongside Cook Islands scientists, educators, and community representatives to explore and better understand the deep sea within Marae Moana.

Image supplied by NAUTILUS LIVE Ocean Exploration Trust - E/V Nautilus

Building capability in marine spatial planning

The expedition, Deep-Sea Habitats of the Cook Islands, will focus on imaging and cataloguing seabed habitats and biodiversity to improve understanding of the nation’s vast Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ). All data collected will be made publicly available and shared with the Cook Islands Government to support ethical, science-based decision-making.

Onboard the E/V Nautilus will be participants from the Cook Islands who represent SBMA and National Environment Services (NES), working with international scientists to use advanced tools like remotely operated vehicles (ROVs), high-resolution mapping, and real-time footage.

“This expedition is about learning more about our Marae Moana and its seabed,” said Beverly Ataera, SBM Commissioner of the Seabed Minerals Authority. “SBMA is privileged to work with a wide range of expert partners like NOAA and OET. Engagements over the last few years have seen Cook Islanders gain knowledge, skills, and data that strengthen our ability to conserve and manage our ocean for generations to come.”

Voices of Partnerships

“The government of the Cook Islands engaged with NOAA to gather important data from the deep sea in order to manage its waters, which include a vast and unique region,” said Dr Aurora Elmore, NOAA marine geology expert and science co-lead for the expedition. “We are thrilled to bring this research expedition and advanced technologies to support this important international partnership.”

“We are excited to bring E/V Nautilus to the Cook Islands for the first time, working alongside local partners to conduct science-based exploration of the deep sea,” said Allison Fundis, Chief Operating Officer of OET. “By openly sharing the data and streaming the expedition live, we aim to grow knowledge and support Cook Islanders in stewarding their ocean.”

Engaging the Cook Islands and the World

The expedition will be livestreamed 24/7 on NautilusLive.org, where Cook Islands classrooms, communities, and global audiences can interact directly with the science team at sea. Free educational Q&A sessions will connect Cook Islanders with the researchers throughout the voyage.

About the Ocean Exploration Trust

Founded in 2007 by Dr Robert Ballard, the Ocean Exploration Trust explores the ocean to advance scientific discovery, education, and technology development. Its international programme operates aboard E/V Nautilus, with live explorations shared worldwide.

About NOAA Ocean Exploration

NOAA Ocean Exploration is the only U.S. federal programme dedicated to exploring the deep oceans. It works to map, characterise, and understand unexplored areas, supporting responsible ocean management.