Sensitive, intelligent, and awe-inspiring, ocean animals live remarkable lives in a world still hidden from most of us.
These 10 powerful documentaries offer a rare glimpse into their mysterious realm – revealing not only their beauty and complexity, but also how our choices on land shape their future.
This image contains content which some may find confronting
Narrated by the legendary Sir David Attenborough, Ocean is a breathtaking dive into the vast and varied worlds beneath the waves – from vibrant coral reefs and kelp forests to the open sea. Alongside breathtaking footage, it also delivers a sobering look at the exploitation of marine animals, exposing the urgent need for change. But this documentary doesn’t dwell in despair. With his signature wisdom, Attenborough shares stories of hope and resilience, reminding us that, with care and action, the ocean can not only heal but also thrive like never before.
Ocean with David Attenborough is now playing in cinemas and will soon be available on National Geographic, Disney+ and Hulu.
This image contains content which some may find confronting
Set in the lush kelp forests off South Africa’s coast, this heartfelt film follows filmmaker Craig Foster as he forms an unexpected friendship with a curious octopus. As their bond grows, Foster discovers a profound connection between human and non-human animals – one built on trust, presence, and respect. Foster shows us that if we take a moment to respectfully observe and admire marine animals in their element, we may realise that we have more in common with them than we thought.
My Octopus Teacher is available to stream on Netflix.
This image contains content which some may find confronting
In this eye-opening investigation, filmmaker Ali Tabrizi shines a light on the impact humans are having on our oceans. From shark finning and whaling to trawling, Seaspiracy exposes how commercial ‘seafood’ industries are destroying marine ecosystems and obscuring the true threats to our oceans. A deeply confronting watch, this documentary reveals how our everyday food choices have far-reaching consequences – and offers hope through change.
Seaspiracy is available to stream on Netflix.
This image contains content which some may find confronting
Co-founder of Greenpeace in 1972 and the founder of Sea Shepherd in 1977, Captain Paul Watson has dedicated his life to defending the oceans for over 40 years. Through his methods of non-aggressive direct action, Captain Watson has fought to protect whales in Antarctica, sharks in the Galapagos and seals in Canada. This documentary covers his achievements and actions that have garnered support as well as the attention of authorities around the world – including being placed on an Interpol Red List by Costa Rica in 2012 (which has since been removed).
Watson is available to stream on Amazon Prime.
This image contains content which some may find confronting
These multi-award-winning documentaries by the late Rob Stewart lift the lid on the cruel global shark finning trade – and the political and criminal networks that fuel it. With sweeping underwater footage and fearless investigations into the world’s most dangerous fishing ports, Sharkwater brought global attention to shark extinction, influencing over 90 countries to ban brutal finning practices. Stewart’s legacy lives on in these must-watch films that remind us that sharks, too, deserve respect and protection.
Sharkwater & Sharkwater: Extinction are available to stream on Amazon Prime.
This image contains content which some may find confronting
In Mission Blue, oceanographer, explorer, author, and lecturer Dr Sylvia Earle takes us on a passionate journey to save the oceans she has dedicated her life to studying. Part action-adventure and part exposé, this documentary explores the threats facing marine life – from fishing to climate change. Dr Earle teaches us that life is connected to the ocean, and if we don’t change our ways, we’ll soon feel its ripple effect here on land.
Mission Blue is available to stream on Netflix.
This image contains content which some may find confronting
Behind every vibrant coral reef lies a world of life, and a warning. Chasing Coral follows a team of divers capturing the rapid bleaching and collapse of reefs due to warming oceans. With urgent visual storytelling and a hauntingly beautiful score, this film underscores the ripple effects of human actions – and the fragility of entire marine ecosystems. It’s a call to protect what remains while we still can. With the world’s most famous coral reef system – the Great Barrier Reef – on our doorstep, Chasing Coral is an essential pick for Australians.
Chasing Coral is available to stream on Netflix.
This image contains content which some may find confronting
“When you look into their eyes, you know somebody is home”. Few films have reshaped public opinion like Blackfish. Focusing on the life of Tilikum, a captive orca at SeaWorld, the film questions the ethics of keeping such intelligent, social, and emotional beings confined for the sake of ‘entertainment’. With powerful interviews and devastating footage, Blackfish challenges us to rethink marine parks – and respect the freedom that all animals deserve.
Blackfish is available to stream on Netflix, Prime Video, Apple TV and YouTube.
This image contains content which some may find confronting
In the small town of Taiji, Japan, a largely hidden practice takes place each year: the capture and slaughter of dolphins. The Cove utilises covert footage and gripping storytelling to expose this brutal activity, which continues under the guise of ‘tradition’. Brought to you by Ric O’Barry, Louis Psihoyos, and the team at Ocean Preservation Society, this Oscar-winning documentary is both deeply disturbing and immensely powerful – and has sparked action for dolphins worldwide.
The Cove is available to stream on Apple TV and YouTube.
This image contains content which some may find confronting
The Ross Sea, Antarctica – considered one of the last pristine marine ecosystems on Earth – is now threatened by commercial fishing. The Last Ocean explores the efforts of scientists and conservationists fighting to protect it from exploitation. With breathtaking imagery of the frozen deep, this documentary is a call to preserve this wildness not for us, but for the sea animals who live there.
The Last Ocean is available to stream on Amazon Prime.
These documentaries serve as powerful reminders that we all have the ability to shape a kinder future – one where ocean animals can thrive alongside us.
The most impactful choice we can make to help protect these animals is to leave them off our plates and in their ocean homes where they belong. And thankfully, it has never been easier to replace traditional ‘seafood’ dishes with alternatives that are delicious and ocean-friendly!
Explore the vast range of ‘seafood’ alternatives available at your local supermarket or online, and explore our favourite sea-inspired dishes from ‘fish’ and chips to sushi. You can also order a free Veg Starter Guide for more recipes, tips, and inspiration.
Education ends cruelty.
Hear from us when
it matters.
