NEW YORK Sept. 6 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Looking like something out of a science fiction movie, the spider-like catamaran, Proteus, sailed into New York Harbor today prior to embarking on its One Ocean mission through America's national marine sanctuaries.

The One Ocean mission is designed to build international alliances and strengthen ties between marine protected areas around the world by using advanced technology to promote better stewardship of the world's oceans.

Proteus, the first full-size WAM-V(TM) (Wave Adaptive Modular Vessel), developed by Marine Advanced Research, Inc. of California, recently completed a tour through Italy's Marine Protected Areas, where the One Ocean mission began in June.

This mission will highlight that the various man-made threats to marine resources in special protected areas such as habitat damage, water pollution, threatened wildlife populations and recovering fish stocks are the same world wide. Special marine protected areas in all the world's oceans are in need of enhanced public awareness, expanded science capabilities, and new strategies to safeguard resources.

"We are very excited about our One Ocean mission and the use of advanced technology embodied in the Proteus to enhance partnerships between the United States and Italy and raise awareness about the importance of our one ocean," said Dr. Isabella Conti, co-founder of Marine Advanced Research.

The Proteus was aptly named after the ancient sea-god who was the guardian of all marine life and capable of changing shape and assuming many forms. This ultra-light, flexible catamaran vessel practically skims across the waves and has a modular design allowing for a multitude of applications, such as rescue missions, research and ocean exploration. It is 100 ft. long, 50ft. wide and is highly stable and maneuverable with the ability to cross oceans. With its very low fuel consumption, low draft, minimal wake at high speed, and soft hulls, the Proteus is also environmentally friendly.

"We are pleased that this mission will help people become more aware of the National Marine Sanctuary System in the United States and encourage all Americans to learn more about how they can help protect and preserve these underwater treasures for future generations to enjoy," said Daniel J. Basta, director, NOAA National Marine Sanctuary Program. 

Proteus and crew anticipate visiting national marine sanctuaries off North Carolina, Georgia, Florida, Texas and California this year and next. The public can follow the mission by visiting http://oceanslive.org/

The National Marine Sanctuary Program manages 13 marine sanctuaries and one national monument that together encompass more than 150,000 square miles of United States' ocean and Great Lakes natural and cultural resources. The sanctuary program seeks to increase public awareness of marine resources and maritime heritage by conducting scientific research, monitoring, exploration and educational programs.

Source: Marine Advanced Research

CONTACT: Isabella Conti, +1-510-290-3483, or Lou Cafiero, National Marine Sanctuary Program, +1-240-205-0400, both of Marine Advanced Research