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 the places and communities we visit, while deepening our travelers' own connection to the sea.
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.
Your Trip Funds Real Conservation Results
Every trip you take with Oceanic Society automatically supports our Expedition Impact Program — funded by Oceanic Society and our travel partners, at no extra cost to you.
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. Every trip is led by passionate field experts — meet our naturalists — 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 your own adventure. Your trip helps fund global conservation, research, and education programs — and we partner only with travel providers and nonprofits who share our commitment to the natural world and the communities within it.
What Our Travelers Say
"With Oceanic Society, you can always count on a holistic and thoughtfully curated experience that goes far beyond travel. Their commitment to conservation is woven into every expedition, ensuring that your journey supports the protection of our oceans while connecting you deeply to the places you visit." — John A.
"This was a fantastic trip. The naturalists and staff were wonderful and the scenery both below and above water was stunning. We did not want the trip to end." – Carl. E
"This was all that I expected and more. The OS naturalists gave a significant value-added to the trip in terms of their professional and scientific knowledge. I became entranced with understanding the differences in coral families, which I have never before wondered about. They taught us about different micro-ecosystems in the reefs, and how they cultivate their own population of corals, clams, macros, fish, etc." – Tracy H.
"It was wonderful to see so many humpback, blue, and gray whales, which I can never get enough of. But the trip was other things, too, including lasting friendships, the joy of being outdoors, and partaking in something I will cherish the rest of my life. It has changed me and my outlook. I feel energetic and willing to accept new experiences as they come." – Ruth B.
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: 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.