An environmental watchdog for the Earth, Calypso II will keep its finger on the pulse of the world, gathering and transmitting, from anywhere around the globe, essential information on the condition of our planet. Calypso II will be innovative, not only in the shape of her hull and her propulsion system, but also in her navigational equipment, the computerization of  scientific material, and the reliability of her communications networks, which will make her one of the first genuinely ecological ships in the world and a worthy successor to the heritage of exploration and communication that has been built by Calypso and Alcyone.

Above: Calypso II beside Alcyone: The new ship's greater size will provide much more space for people and their work. Below: Captain Cousteau shows a model of Calypso II to the young people for whose future she will be built.

Like Alcyone, Calypso II will use a Turbosail ™ developed by the Cousteau team. She will be equipped with film and scientific laboratories, and numerous airborne and submarine exploration devices (an observation chamber in the stem, a state-of-the-art dive locker, a helicopter, a maneuverable submarine, hydroplane, etc.). This 66-meter vessel will be spacious enough for 36 passengers, including her 15 crew members.  There will be space for film teams, scientists and special expedition guests. In addition, she will be equipped with a film editing room, a photographic darkroom, a satellite communication system and many other features.

From her decks, the Cousteau adventures will continue through the twenty-first century. The Cousteau Society is collecting $40 million so that Calypso II can achieve these goals: $30 million for building the boat and her equipment, and $10 million to be placed in an escrow account, with interest serving for maintenance and everyday repairs. If you would like to be a part of making Calypso II a ship that truly belongs to people around the world, please contact The Cousteau Society at 1-800-441-4395.