National Geographic’s Ocean with David Attenborough is a feature-length documentary special that marks the first collaboration of its kind between the renowned natural historian. Presented by the celebrated 98-year-old broadcaster and produced by Silverback Films and Open Planet Studios, the film shares with a global audience the importance of the world’s oceans and the story of how we can, and must, restore the glory of Earth’s vast, interconnected waters. In conjunction with World Oceans Day, the Disney+ Hotstar original will be available to stream on June 8.
As decision makers ponder the future of our oceans, Ocean with David Attenborough will amplify the marine protection solutions that can help turn the tide. The film draws upon extensive marine science and was supported by a team of scientific advisors, including National Geographic Pristine Seas founder, Dr. Enric Sala.
After filming the natural world for over 70 years, captivating generations of audiences worldwide with groundbreaking discoveries and advocating for environmental preservation, Attenborough delivers his most important message yet. In Ocean with David Attenborough, Attenborough draws from his lifetime of exploration and knowledge of the sea to take audiences on a journey of wonder through the planet’s most spectacular undersea habitats. Investigating the astonishingly diverse marine ecosystems, from bustling giant kelp jungles and mesmerising coral reefs to towering seamount outposts within the open ocean, the documentary feature dives deep into what makes the ocean such a captivating entity, as well as how the world’s oceans are at a crossroads.
Attenborough said, “My lifetime has coincided with the great age of ocean discovery. Over the last hundred years, scientists and explorers have revealed remarkable new species, epic migrations and dazzling, complex ecosystems beyond anything I could have imagined as a young man. In this film, we share those wonderful discoveries, uncover why our ocean is in such poor health, and, perhaps most importantly, show how it can bounce back to life.”
Ocean with David Attenborough tells the story of the importance and health of our ocean. Through spectacular undersea sequences and a reflection on Attenborough’s own lifetime of exploration and discovery, the film demonstrates the vital role the ocean plays in defending against climate disaster and sustaining all life on Earth. The documentary special zeroes in on the human actions leading to the oceans’ collapse and the effects of destructive fishing techniques, such as dredging and bottom trawling, on entire marine ecosystems, coastal communities, and the global climate. Breathtaking footage also exhibits the oceans’ incredible resilience and remarkable ability to recover when protected, showcasing the marine protection solutions already at hand and the action we must take to restore the abundance and vitality of the ocean and secure a healthier future for us all.
