The Ocean Story
Welcome to The Ocean Story, a project dedicated to raising awareness and driving action for ocean conservation. As we enter the UN Ocean Decade, we are at a critical moment—these next 10 years will define the future of our oceans. With marine ecosystems under severe threat from overfishing, climate change, and pollution, the urgency to protect and restore them has never been more pressing. Through powerful storytelling and stunning imagery, The Ocean Story aims to inspire global efforts to safeguard the incredible marine species at risk of disappearing forever.
UN Ocean Decade
"This project is endorsed by the United Nations Decade of Ocean Science for Sustainable Development as a Decade Activity. Use of the United Nations Decade of Ocean Science for Sustainable Development logo by a non-UN entity does not imply the endorsement of the United Nations of such entity, its products or services, or of its planned activities. For more information please access: https://forum.oceandecade.org/page/disclaimer"
Since 2021, award-winning underwater photographer and ocean conservationist Vincent Kneefel has been on a mission to capture the breathtaking beauty and delicate fragility of iconic and endangered marine species, primarily using natural light to bring their stories to life. His work shines a spotlight on three critical threats facing our oceans: overfishing, ocean warming, and plastic pollution. Recognized as an official Decade Activity by the UN Ocean Decade, this transformative project is made possible through the generous support of key partner organizations. These powerful images are shared with leading conservation groups, including WWF and The Ocean Agency, amplifying global efforts to protect and restore marine ecosystems.
Sponsors & Supporters
Book
Phase one of Vincent's ambitious project, completed in May 2023, unveiled the first edition of "The Ocean Story" book. Over 200 copies of the book have been given to high level policy makers at the 2024 UN Ocean Decade conference in Barcelona. Now, as we move forward, the project aims to capture five more unique marine species, tell their stories, and spotlight three critical habitats—coral reefs, seagrass beds, and mangroves. These efforts will culminate in an ultimate collection showcasing 10 iconic marine species in an updated version of The Ocean Story book, slated for completion by the end of 2025.
The stakes have never been higher. The next decade could determine the health of our oceans for the next 10,000 years. Join us in this crucial endeavor to save our oceans and the myriad life forms they harbor.
Donations
Donate to
The Ocean Story
Support The Ocean Story by donating to keep the project alive so we can reach our 2025 goal.
First edition of The Ocean Story book, published in 2023
Purchase The Ocean Story book
Pre-order your copy of The Ocean Story for $100 USD inc worldwide shipping (expected late 2025).
Photo exhibition of The Ocean Story at a gallery in Amsterdam