Nominations are now open for the Ocean Awards 2026, an international recognition programme celebrating individuals, organisations, and community initiatives working to protect and restore ocean health.

Now in its 11th edition, the Ocean Awards are delivered in partnership with BOAT International, Nekton, and Kensington Yachts, and continue to spotlight outstanding contributions addressing what many scientists describe as the world’s largest solvable environmental challenge: the ocean crisis.

About the Ocean Awards

Covering more than 70% of the Earth’s surface, the ocean plays a critical role in sustaining life by producing oxygen, regulating climate, absorbing carbon dioxide, and supporting the livelihoods of millions of people worldwide. However, increasing pressures from climate change, pollution, and overexploitation threaten marine ecosystems at an unprecedented scale.

The Ocean Awards aim to recognise practical, impactful efforts that are helping reverse this crisis and demonstrate that ocean recovery is possible within a generation through decisive action.

Why Nominate?

Being selected for an Ocean Award offers a powerful platform to amplify impactful work and raise global visibility. Award recipients are:

• Featured in BOAT International’s prestigious Ocean Issue

• Promoted across BOAT International, Nekton, and Kensington Yachts’ digital platforms

• Shared with a combined global audience of over 200,000 followers

• Recognised among a respected international network of ocean advocates, scientists, innovators, and leaders

Award Categories

The Ocean Awards 2026 recognise excellence across five categories:

• Community Impact Award (formerly Local Hero)

• Young Initiative Award

• Innovation Award

• Science Impact Award

• Ocean Literacy Award

These categories highlight achievements that have strengthened marine conservation, improved sustainable ocean management, or increased public engagement with ocean issues during the qualifying period.

Innovation Spotlight

The Innovation Award recognises bold, creative approaches transforming ocean conservation. Previous winners include initiatives that have successfully combined community livelihoods with marine protection, demonstrating how innovation can drive lasting change.

Judging Process

Entries are reviewed by an independent panel of ocean experts, academics, industry leaders, and philanthropists appointed by the organisers. Finalists may be announced ahead of the awards, with winners revealed through an official editorial feature.

Judging decisions are final.

Key Dates

• Nominations Open: Now

• Submission Deadline: 13 February 2026 at 11:59 PM

• Awards Edition: 2026

Applicants are encouraged to carefully review the official terms and conditions before submitting a nomination.