Track R/V Dawn

R/V Dawn is the Sustainable Seas Institute’s 39-foot sailing research vessel, currently operating in the Eastern Caribbean. From our base in Martinique, Dawn carries our science team across the Lesser Antilles, collecting water samples for PFAS and microplastics analysis, deploying sensors, and supporting our undergraduate research expeditions with UNC Charlotte.

The map below shows Dawn’s current AIS-reported position in real time. AIS (Automatic Identification System) is the international maritime tracking standard used by all commercial and research vessels. Dawn transmits her position, speed, course, and vessel identity continuously while underway.

Live Map

The map displays R/V Dawn’s AIS-reported position (MMSI: 368308940). Position data is sourced from the VesselFinder AIS network. Coverage is strongest near populated Caribbean islands; Dawn may appear offline during open-water passages between island groups.

About R/V Dawn

R/V Dawn is a ketch-rigged sailing vessel acquired by the Sustainable Seas Institute in 2025. She underwent a major systems refit in Martinique before her first science cruise, which covered Martinique and St. Lucia. In 2026, Dawn completed a ten-day expedition to St. Lucia, Martinique, Dominica, the Saintes, and Guadeloupe, collecting water samples at multiple stations across the Lesser Antilles island arc.

As a sailing research vessel, Dawn combines low environmental footprint with the range and sea-keeping ability needed for multi-island Caribbean expeditions. Her research equipment includes water sampling systems, environmental monitoring instrumentation, and underwater exploration capability.

Vessel Specifications