For over 50 years, Project Oceanology has been designing and delivering educational experiences to students and the community, focusing on developing a deeper understanding of our marine environment.
Navigating Through Time
1972
Marine biologist Howard “Mickey” Weiss founded Project Oceanology, realizing his vision to connect children from local communities with the wonders and biodiversity of Long Island Sound through research and exploration.
1973
Enviro-Lab I launched as the first research vessel, and the Old Coast Guard non-commissioned Officers Club at UConn Avery Point is leased as the first Project Oceanology building.
1986
Project Oceanology begins Harbor Explorations sponsored by The University of Massachusetts at Boston, a program of student-teacher trips aboard Enviro-Lab 1 in Boston Harbor.
1987
Project Oceanology launches its second vessel, the Enviro-Lab 2, thanks to funding from the state legislators and private sources.
1991
Enviro-Lab 1 retires and is repurposed as a Cape Cod lobster boat.
1993
Project Oceanology launches a third vessel, the Enviro-Lab 3.
1995
Publication of Marine Animals of Southern New England and New York strengthens Project Oceanology’s role in regional science education.
2000
The new Project Oceanology building opens at Avery Point, providing a permanent home for programs and expanding capacity.
2003
Connecticut River Connections grant awarded, strengthening interdistrict collaboration and environmental education. Still going strong!
2007
The great white shark model is installed in the cafeteria, becoming a memorable centerpiece for students and visitors.
2019
Project Oceanology’s long‑term environmental dataset is published in Marine Environmental Research, documenting decades of ecological change in eastern Long Island Sound and showcasing the scientific value of student‑collected data.
2020–2021
Project Oceanology educator taught programs virtually to students aboard the Enviro-Lab during the Covid-19 pandemic.
2022
Project Oceanology celebrates 50 years with a gala at the Branford House and launches the Lobster Trap Recovery and Assessment Partnership in Connecticut. We also celebrated educating one million students!
2023
Project Oceanology joins the Unified Water Study, collaborating with Save the Sound, on regional water quality monitoring and launches a high school internship program, providing a pathway for students to explore careers in science and maritime industries. Enviro-Lab 3 retires after 30 years of service.
2024
Project Oceanology is recognized as the Nonprofit of the Year by the Eastern Connecticut Chamber of Commerce.
2025
A new permanent art exhibit, Wonders of Long Island Sound, opens at Project Oceanology, created by local artists to enhance educational programs. We are preparing for the next generation of research vessels and expanding Blue Economy workforce programs.
Welcome to Project Oceanology
As a non-profit, we pride ourselves on the positive impact our programs and research are having on the Long Island Sound community.
“Project Oceanology is simply the best! As a teacher, my goal is for all of my students to develop an understanding of, appreciation for, and passion toward the ocean. For some students, their experiences with Project Oceanology may lead them into marine science careers, while for others, their experiences may simply be “wow!” moments that will stay with them for the rest of their lives.”
Meet our marine-science-obsessed team
Every contribution to Project Oceanology empowers over 25,000 students and adults each year to explore and learn through hands-on, oceanic adventures.
Your support is vital in providing our life-changing programs that enrich the education of the next generation of environmental stewards and marine scientists. Our work wouldn’t be possible without donations from supporters like you.