Our Travel Philosophy
Since 1969, Oceanic Society has been using travel as a force for ocean conservation. As America’s oldest nonprofit dedicated to ocean health, we’ve seen firsthand how meaningful, well-designed nature travel can inspire change — both in the places we visit and in the lives of those who travel with us.
For more than 50 years, our expeditions have brought people face-to-face with some of the ocean’s most extraordinary wildlife and ecosystems — not just to observe them, but to help protect them. Every trip is designed to benefit both the natural environments and human communities we visit, while also deepening our travelers’ connection to nature and promoting everyday ocean-friendly habits.
Unlike most travel companies, any profits from our trips go directly into our global ocean research and conservation programs.
When you travel with us, you're not just going on a trip — you're joining a movement to build a healthier future for our oceans.
Traveler Plastic Pollution Offset Program
Launched in 2022, our Traveler Plastic Pollution Offset Program adds a new dimension to your impact. For every person who joins one of our multi-day expeditions, we fund four days of work by a local beach cleaner in Watamu, Kenya — removing an average of 200 pounds of litter from the marine environment.
Expedition Impact Fund
Created in 2019, our Expedition Impact Fund (EIF) supports local ocean conservation partners in the places we visit. The fund is powered by contributions from Oceanic Society and our travelers, providing fast, flexible grants to support ongoing conservation work.
It’s a unique opportunity to give back to the people and projects you encounter — and to know your trip is helping long after you return home.
Why Travel with Oceanic Society
Authentic
As a nonprofit conservation organization, our global network of scientists, naturalists, and local partners gives you access to experiences and insights you won’t find elsewhere. Our trips are led by passionate field experts and enriched by community collaborations that benefit everyone involved.
Life-Changing
We design every expedition to leave a lasting impression — not just through incredible wildlife encounters, but by inspiring a deeper personal commitment to ocean health. We equip our travelers with the tools and knowledge to join us in building a more oceanic society.
Educational
As lifelong students of nature, we believe that appreciation of the natural world is enhanced through knowledge. Our expert guides interpret nature in engaging, accessible ways — revealing the science, stories, and significance behind every reef, whale, or sea turtle you encounter. We also collaborate with local researchers and conservationists for on-the-ground insight.
Impactful
When you travel with Oceanic Society, you support more than just your own adventure. Your trip helps fund global conservation, research, and education programs — and we take great care to partner with travel providers, nonprofits, and people who share our commitment to preserving the natural world and supporting community well-being.
Ready for a New Kind of Travel?
Whether you're seeking adventure, education, family bonding, or a deeper purpose in your travel — you’ll find it here.
Awards & Recognition
We’re proud to have earned numerous honors over the past five decades, including:
- National Geographic Tours of a Lifetime (2007–2015): For trips in Belize, Florida, Palau, Indonesia, Kenya, Micronesia, and Tonga.
- Outside Magazine “Trip of the Year” (2007) – Palau Shark Week
- The International Ecotourism Society Innovation Award Finalist (2010)
- Conde Nast Traveler Nominee – Best Ecotourism Operator of the Year (2003)
- Official commendation from the California State Senate for “exemplary service to the cause of conservation” through educational travel
Other Resources
Access other helpful resources in the links below.