Marmoris Launches to Advance Deep-Sea Exploration within the Caribbean

[Nassau, The Bahamas – September 15th 2025] A new chapter in ocean exploration in the Caribbean begins with the launch of Marmoris, a non-profit organization dedicated to uncovering, documenting, and conserving the region’s deep-sea ecosystems.

Founded by Bahamian ocean scientist Dana “Denley” Delaney, Marmoris blends science, technology, and storytelling to explore one of Earth’s last great frontiers: the deep ocean. Denley brings years of ocean exploration experience, including managing the National Geographic Society’s portfolio of cutting-edge ocean technologies, and supporting deep-sea expeditions around the world.

“We know more about outer space than we do about our own ocean,” said Denley, Founder of Marmoris. “Marmoris was created to fill critical data gaps about the deep sea and to contribute to long-lasting conservation efforts that are led from within the region.”

Locally-led deep-sea research in The Bahamas and Caribbean

Headquartered in Nassau, Marmoris leads deep-sea expeditions across The Bahamas and collaborates with scientists and institutions throughout the Caribbean. Using advanced and accessible ocean technologies, including baited deep-sea camera systems and remotely operated vehicles (ROVs), the organization explores ocean depths reaching up to 3,000 meters.

Marmoris’ inaugural expedition is already underway in the northern Bahamas, conducting a multi-island and comprehensive survey of deep-sea biodiversity and habitats. This research will continue through the southern Bahamas, collecting data to support local ocean management and conservation efforts, and long-term monitoring of The Bahamas’ deep sea.

Why the deep sea matters

The deep sea plays a critical role in sustaining life on Earth, from climate regulation and fisheries to coastal economies. As threats such as deep-sea mining and oil drilling increase, gathering more scientific data is essential to inform ocean policy and safeguard these ecosystems.

“What happens in the deep ocean affects us all,” added Denley. “Data is our most powerful tool for protecting the ocean and ensuring a sustainable future.”

Building regional ocean exploration capacity

Marmoris’ mission is anchored in five pillars:

1. Deep-Sea Exploration: Filling data gaps in The Bahamas and the wider Caribbean.
2. Locally Led Research: Empowering Caribbean scientists and communities.
3. Capacity Building: Strengthening regional expertise in ocean science and technology.
4. Storytelling & Outreach: Connecting local and global audiences to the deep sea.
5. Open Data Access: Providing data to support informed ocean management and conservation.

By shining a light on the Caribbean’s underexplored and unexplored deep-sea ecosystems, Marmoris is helping shape a future where Caribbean nations are equipped and empowered to lead the discovery of their deep-sea frontiers.

Learn more

Learn more about our work and connect with Marmoris here.

Follow Marmoris on Instagram and TikTok @marmoris.deepsea