See full version: How much of the ocean have we explored
Given the high degree of difficulty and cost in exploring our ocean using underwater vehicles, researchers have long relied on technologies such as sonar to generate maps of the seafloor. Currently, less than ten percent of the global ocean is mapped using modern sonar technology. For the ocean and coastal waters of the United States, only about 35 percent has been mapped with modern methods. [links]
The ocean is the lifeblood of Earth, covering more than 70 percent of the planet's surface, driving weather, regulating temperature, and ultimately supporting all living organisms. Throughout history, the ocean has been a vital source of sustenance, transport, commerce, growth, and inspiration. more
Yet for all of our reliance on the ocean, more than eighty percent of this vast, underwater realm remains unmapped, unobserved, and unexplored.
Much remains to be learned from exploring the mysteries of the deep. From mapping and describing the physical, biological, geological, chemical, and archaeological aspects of the ocean to understanding ocean dynamics, developing new technologies, and unlocking other secrets of the ocean, NOAA is working to increase our understanding of the ocean realm. more
NOAA’s Office of Ocean Exploration and Research is leading efforts to explore the ocean by supporting expeditions to investigate and document its unknown and little known regions. These expeditions are led by scientist-explorers equipped with the latest exploration tools. more
The second of five in the revolutionary Voyager-class series that started with Voyager of the Seas in 1999, Explorer of the Seas follows the floating resort concept, with a wealth of facilities, activities and entertainment that will appeal to every age group. Some its most exciting attractions are an ice skating rink/concert venue/TV studio, spa/solarium complex, a shopping/dining/entertainment boulevard, 3D movie theater, and outdoor movie screen. A fitness center, outdoor jogging track and outdoor youth area with a rock-climbing wall, full-court basketball, nine-holeminiature golf and brand new FlowRider Surf Simulator offers active cruisers of all ages, from children to seniors, something to enjoy. [links]
Is it adventure you seek, or a restful retreat from life on land? Royal Caribbean's Explorer of the Seas is home to an array of innovations that give you whatever type of vacation you desire. Climb a rock wall that overlooks the sea, or find your adventure on the basketball court, ice-skating rink or mini-golf course. If it's zen you seek, achieve it poolside or at the relaxing Vitality Spa. Liven up your nights on the Royal Promenade, with parades, dancing, and duty-free shopping deals. And bring along some friends—with spacious public areas, enhanced staterooms, and a spectacular three-story dining room, this ship has room for your whole crew.
Four main types of stateroom are available – Suites/Deluxe, Balcony, Outside and Inside – each with 24 hour service provided by an attendant. A total of 19 cabin types are currently available, including accessible and family rooms.
From traditional cruise favourites to innovative, first at sea activities; the entertainment onboard offers something for all ages and preferences.
Amazing Amenities: Beyond the 10 pools and whirlpools, Explorer of the Seas provides a chance to climb walls (literally), ice-skate, play basketball or minigolf, watch concerts and 3-D movies, or work on keeping the waistline in check at the gym and jogging track.
3-D Movie Theater: Royal Caribbean has a partnership with DreamWorks, and the studio's animated films are shown in 3-D in the onboard movie theater. The experience is thrilling, whether you have kids in tow or not. here
FlowRider: One of the upgrades from its 2015 dry dock, this surf simulator attracts passengers of all ages and surfing levels. here
When it launched in 2000, Royal Caribbean International’s 3,114-passenger Explorer of the Seas was the largest passenger ship in the world. Despite refurbishments that increased tonnage, Explorer of the Seas is now far from the largest at sea. The refits have added the exhilarating activities Royal Caribbean has been introducing on its ships (ice-skating rink, surfing simulator), though, so it feels more modern than you would expect. After 14 years in the Caribbean, Explorer of the Seas relocated to the other side of the globe to sail in Australia, the South Pacific, and Alaska starting in 2015.
Traditional Royal Promenade: This is at the heart of Explorer of the Seas’ 15 decks and is flush with activity: Shops, bars, and places to snack line the rambling corridor (it's longer than a football field). more
Active Families of All Ages: The "something-for-everyone" promise is kept on this ship. There are games and discos for the young, lounges and lectures for the not-so-young, rock-climbing and ice-skating for the active, and the Vitality Spa and adults-only Solarium for the pampered. more