In the Spell of the Ocean: International Ocean Film Tour 2026

Cinema meets marine protection: As part of this year’s International Ocean Film Tour, the German Ocean Foundation took part in a number of events across Germany. This provided an opportunity to engage with a wide audience and raise awareness of marine conservation issues.

The five films transported viewers into the world of people who have a very special connection to the ocean. For example, we accompanied an eight-member Swiss family on their 25-year expedition at sea, or Terry Kennedy, who befriended a manta ray. The mission of the three Scottish brothers, who rowed across the Pacific in record time, was an emotional rollercoaster. Thrills were provided by the adventure of a kitesurfing crew chasing the wind along the coast of South Africa. Equally captivating was the story of Christa Funk, who works as a surf photographer under the most challenging conditions in Hawaii.

Our conclusion: well-attended events, high-quality films and numerous discussions. Among the focal points were the media and research vessel ALDEBARAN and the Ocean Lovers Education Platform, which we coordinate together with the International Ocean Film Tour. Both initiatives met with great interest and facilitated a constructive exchange on approaches to environmental education and marine research.

In addition, the German Ocean Foundation will be involved in the Audience Award. The prize will offer an insight into scientific work – in the form of a day on board the ALDEBARAN.