Eesha Kulkarni

As we celebrate World Ocean Day today, there’s no better time to delve into the depths of our planet’s mysterious oceans and discover the wonders they hold. And, what better way to mark this day than to watch brilliant ocean documentaries, which serve as powerful tools, enlightening viewers about urgent environmental concerns, igniting a sense of responsibility, and inspiring transformative action to safeguard our oceans? Like the 2009 Oscar-winning docu-series The Cove which uncovered the shocking reality behind dolphin hunting in a secluded cove in Japan and many more such examples.

Ocean Documentaries

From the secret lives of oceanic creatures to the pressing need for conservation, ahead, we bring you a selection of thought-provoking docu-series that promise to entertain, educate, and ignite your passion for our planet’s most precious treasure. So, grab your snorkel, strap on your flippers, and let’s dive headfirst into an underwater extravaganza that will have you hooked from the first splash!

The Blue Planet (2001)

Despite two-thirds of our planet being covered by water, the oceans and many of their inhabitants remain an unexplored mystery. This show travels to the very depths of the seas to reveal a spectacular variety of life. Using stunning underwater photography, the filmmaker examines the natural history of the world’s oceans and unveils the complex dynamics of marine life.

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Frozen Planet (2011)

With an urgent mission to document the wonders of these icy landscapes before the irreversible impacts of global warming take hold, this series immerses viewers in the Arctic and Antarctic like never before. Delving deep into the seasonal transformations that shape these regions, the show unveils the remarkable adaptations of the resilient wildlife that call them home. Through groundbreaking footage and breathtaking cinematography, Frozen Planet transports audiences to the pristine, ice-capped realms while shedding light on the fragile nature of these environments and the profound effects of climate change.

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Blue Planet II (2017)

In 2017, the impactful seven-part BBC series titled Blue Planet II, narrated by Sir David Attenborough, served as a wake-up call for the detrimental effects of single-use plastic on our planet. Through alarming visuals, such as albatross chicks consuming plastic and a young whale potentially perishing from toxic mother’s milk contaminated by plastic, the documentary shed light on the urgent need to protect our oceans. The series also highlighted the significance of preserving diverse marine ecosystems, including tropical coral reefs and expansive undersea forests.

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Chasing Coral (2017)

A team of passionate scientists and divers go on an urgent quest to document the alarming decline of coral reefs in this one. Directed by Jeff Orlowski, Chasing Coral captures the devastating effects of coral bleaching, showcasing the beauty and fragility of these underwater ecosystems. As the clock ticks, the film delivers a powerful message about the global consequences of coral reef destruction and highlights the innovative solutions needed to save these precious habitats.

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A Plastic Ocean (2016)

This Craig Leeson directorial takes viewers on a horrifying ride exposing the reality of our plastic-ridden seas. Plunging us into a world where marine life is entangled in a growing tide of pollution, this documentary brings to light the devastating impact of plastic waste, and calls for urgent action to combat the global environmental crisis through powerful imagery and eye-opening revelations.

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Our Planet (2019)

With breathtaking visuals and the iconic voice of Sir David Attenborough, this series serves as a rallying cry for nature conservation. From the lush rainforests to the icy wilderness, it reveals the delicate balance between human activity and the natural world, urging us all to become guardians of our planet’s magnificent biodiversity.

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The Great Global Clean-up (2020)

This show shines a spotlight on a remarkable movement that brings people together from across the globe to participate in park and beach clean-ups during the momentous event known as the ‘Great Global Clean-up.’ Joining forces with local superstars and individuals from diverse backgrounds, renowned figures Zac Efron and Zach King lead the charge in this inspiring show. Their collective goal? To tackle the staggering challenge of collecting a hundred billion pieces of trash worldwide. With a focus on innovative recycling methods and cutting-edge waste management practices, these environmental champions are effecting change on a global scale through grassroots efforts. As you witness their impactful actions, The Great Global Clean-up not only encourages introspection but also secures its place at the top of your must-watch list on World Ocean Day.

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Great White Open Ocean (2022)

In the thrilling 90-minute documentary, viewers are taken on an adrenaline-fueled journey alongside shark diving expert Jimi Partington. Having narrowly escaped the jaws of a great white shark and determined to conquer his traumatic ordeal, Partington courageously returns to the water. However, what starts as a personal triumph soon transforms into a harrowing struggle for survival. Captured by renowned Shark Week filmmaker Jeff Kurr, this gripping film plunges audiences into a high-stakes battle between man and predator.

Watch it here