The Ocean remains one of the greatest mysteries of our world, with an estimated 95% of the world’s oceans remaining unexplored.  Every day scientists are discovering new species and forms of life as they strive to explore the greatest depths our planet has to offer, yet they have still barely scratched the surface of what may lay beneath our waves. What amazing and beautiful discoveries lurk in the deep? We have so much more to learn and discover — especially if very much the extent of your ocean exploration is a trip to the beach and a paddle in the waves. Sadly, for many of us the beach is the extent of our adventures at sea, so we have no idea of the sea’s majesty that lies just beyond our depths.

The Ocean Film Festival World Tour offers us all a glimpse into what it is we’re missing. The greatest divers, surfers, oceanographers and explorers from around the world will take audiences on an unforgettable adventure through the deep in a series of short films over two hours of mystery, intrigue and breathtaking beauty. This particular film festival was started with a singular mission in mind; to inspire the world to explore, cherish and care for our oceans at the time where it needs our protection and love more than ever. To this end, the curators of this year’s festival are compiling a range of films of different styles, perspectives and covering a huge range of topics from oceanic environments, marine creatures, ocean-related sports, coastal cultures and communities and ocean lovers.

As well as showcasing some amazing films, the Festival is also working with a number of ocean conservation groups that operate around the world towards the goal of saving and preserving our seas.  Sea Shepard Australia is one of the bigger organisations working with the festival this year – a non-profit conservation organisation whose mission is to end the destruction of habitat and slaughter of wildlife in the world’s oceans in order to conserve and protect ecosystems and species. Sea Shepherd Australia uses innovative direct-action tactics to investigate, document and take action when necessary to expose and confront illegal activities on the high seas.  Project Aware is another group being supported by this year’s festival, with proceeds from ticket sales going to furthering this group’s very important work. Project aware is a global movement for ocean protection powered by a community of adventurers. With a mission to connect the passion for ocean adventure with the purpose of marine conservation, Project Aware brings together a dedicated team of individuals around the world who share a passion for ocean protection and adventure to secure real and direct environmental victories.

The Sunshine Coast will host its own leg of this world tour early next year, on March 9th at The J in Noosa, with tickets soon going on sale.  For more information on the Festival itself, it’s features films and the organisations involved, visit the official Ocean Film Festival World Tour website here.