Call for Proposals
- Enrico Braglia
- Aug 1
- 2 min read
Augmentum’s 2026 Research Initiative aboard MY AKULA
Augmentum, a private philanthropic initiative committed to supporting game-changing projects that improve lives, empower communities, and strengthen our connection to nature and cultural heritage, is pleased to announce a special landmark opportunity.
We are now welcoming proposals for innovative research initiatives to be undertaken aboard our luxury expedition vessel, MY AKULA, during the 2026 field season in the Caribbean Sea.
Built in 2024, MY AKULA is a state-of-the-art 59.4 m private expedition yacht that blends elegance with scientific capability.
Key features include:
Advanced diesel-electric propulsion with L-Drive pods, dynamic positioning, and extended autonomy up to 30 days at sea, with a cruising range exceeding 8,000 nautical miles.
Highly eco-friendly systems, including IMO Tier III & Marpol compliance, RINA Green Plus rating, extensive waste management, synthetic recyclable teak, and exceptionally low emissions.
Robust safety architecture: ice-class steel hull, redundant systems, watertight compartments, multiple generators, tenders, liferafts, and advanced navigation and thermal imaging technologies.
Research-ready infrastructure: ample deck space, scientific dry lab, workshop, and container-enabled modular adaptability for oceanographic, marine biology, archaeology, geology, environmental science, and related disciplines.
Scope of Support and Opportunity
Augmentum is offering:
Sponsored funding and in-kind support, tailored to covering essential aspects of the research.
Exclusive access to MY AKULA as the operational research vessel in the Caribbean during 2026.
This initiative is ideal for projects requiring a mobile, well-equipped, and environmentally conscious platform to conduct sea-based research with both scientific rigour and logistical excellence.
Application Guidelines
Organizations interested in this opportunity should prepare a detailed proposal that includes:
Objectives and expected outcomes of the research
Scientific methods and logistical requirements
Alignment with Augmentum’s focus areas (e.g., conservation, environmental science, cultural heritage)
Budget outline and use of vessel facilities
Please submit your proposals no later than 30 November 2025.
To apply for funding or to learn more about this initiative, contact Augmentum directly—full contact details are available under contacts.
We look forward to partnering with visionary organizations to advance critical research and exploration aboard MY AKULA in 2026.
