Marine research equipment is a necessary tool for human beings to understand the ocean. It is also an important symbol reflecting a country’s comprehensive strength. This paper comprehensively reviews the development course and the genealogical status of marine research equipment, especially the research vessels, vehicles, buoys, etc., as well as the exploration and lab equipment in the People’s Republic of China over the 70 years. As one of the most representative equipment, the research vessel is selected and deeply analyzed. Firstly, the paper summarizes the development characteristics of global marine research vessels and introduces China’s efforts in this regard accordingly. Secondly, the technological development of China’s research vessels in three generations is systematically sorted out. In addition, the paper expounds on the technical difficulties and innovative designs in terms of the new concept of ship design, new development of oceanography, new technology of ship equipment, and new products of research systems. At the same time, the paper discusses in detail the future needs and challenges of China’s research equipment from three aspects including the community with a shared future for mankind, the national marine power strategy, and the trend of emerging technology convergence. Finally, development proposals for future marine research equipment are put forward from the perspective of top-level demand, system contribution, and technological upgrading.