Travel the World with Expert Naturalists

When you join an Oceanic Society expedition, you’re not just following a guide—you’re exploring the natural world alongside a naturalist. These experts aren’t here to just point out sights or check off animals on a list. Our naturalists include marine biologists, PADI dive masters, conservationists, research scientists, and other specialists who combine hands-on expertise with a deep love of nature.

Dalton and Guide Raja

Explore. Learn. Protect.

Traveling with an Oceanic Society naturalist transforms your journey into a collaborative expedition. Expect hands-on learning, immersive wildlife observation, and conservation-minded storytelling shaped by experts.

And most importantly, naturalists inspire action. They share practical ways you can contribute to conservation, showing that every small step matters in protecting our oceans and wild places. With a naturalist by your side, your expedition becomes more than a trip—it becomes a journey of discovery, connection, and lasting impact.

Roger Harris, Oceanic Society naturalist, presenting during hike © Chris Biertuempfel

Hands-On
Learning

Traveling with a naturalist gives you the chance to build your knowledge of the natural world through direct experience, questions, and interactive guidance.

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Immersive Wildlife Observation

With a naturalist by your side, you’ll observe wildlife up close, understand ecological relationships, and witness conservation in action—all moments that deepen your experience.

whale watching naturalist

Conservation Storytelling

Our naturalists are engaging storytellers who share field stories, research discoveries, and conservation challenges, bringing each journey to life.

Expedition Naturalists

Our expedition leaders include marine biologists, PADI Dive Masters, and conservation scientists. They guide you throughout multi-day trips, sharing knowledge of wildlife, ecosystems, and cultures to enrich every experience.

Johannes Hennicke photo

Johannes Hennicke

Naturalist
Linda Searle photo

Linda Searle

Naturalist
Lindsay Mosher photo

Lindsay Mosher

Associate Director, Behavior Change
May Roberts

May Roberts

Naturalist
Michelle Paddack photo

Michelle Paddack

Naturalist
Pete Oxford photo

Pete Oxford

Naturalist
Peter Winch photo

Peter Winch

Naturalist
Ray Boland

Raymond Boland

Naturalist
Razis Nasri photo

Razis Nasri

Naturalist

Roderic Mast

Co-CEO and President
Roger Harris Photo

Roger Harris

Naturalist
rosie jeffrey

Rosie Jeffrey

Manager, Strategic Growth & Partnerships

Whale Watching Naturalists

Specialists in marine mammal behavior and ecology, our whale watching naturalists share their deep knowledge and passion, making every trip a chance to inspire wonder and foster appreciation for marine life.

Allison Payne Photo

Allison Payne

Naturalist

Bekah Lane

Naturalist

Chris Biertuempfel

Associate Director, California Programs

David Wimpfheimer

Naturalist

Gail Broesder

Naturalist
Michael Pierson Photo

Michael Pierson

Naturalist
Peter Winch photo

Peter Winch

Naturalist
Roger Harris Photo

Roger Harris

Naturalist
Susan Sherman photo

Susan Sherman

Naturalist

Traveler Experiences

"The trip of a lifetime! Snorkeling with a rich abundance of fishes and corals...and more. Dalton went above and beyond in planning excursions. Great group of participants and wonderful, helpful crew, both groups a joy to be with. Early and mid-planning conversations with Wayne were instrumental in helping prepare for the trip. Fitness, endurance, and good equipment help, too, including an underwater camera." — Judy T. 

"Our entire experience on this Oceanic Society trip on the Dancing Wind was top notch and amazing. The coral, the fish, the guides, the naturalist, the crew and the ship were all excellent. Every day we were treated to a great variety of snorkel sites, hikes and boat excursions. Love to snorkel, love the water, then this is the trip for you!" — Theresa T.

"We had an extraordinary time cruising around the archipelago of Raja Ampat for 12 days on the beautiful Damai 11 offered by The Ocean Society. From the moment we stepped aboard, we were greeted by a warm, friendly, and exceptionally helpful and informative staff. We really enjoyed staying on the traditional wooden Indonesia boat, with a comfortable room, dining area, lounge, and covered deck. Mika, the boat manager, was outstanding and organized, preparing us for the varied adventures each day. Our guides Dalton and Andy were extremely knowledgeable and always willing to share their knowledge." — Janis B.

Join a Journey with Our Naturalists

Discover the world through the eyes of expert guides. Learn, explore, and connect with wildlife and cultures on expeditions led by passionate naturalists.

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