Can you believe it’s almost here again? This Sunday, June 8th, marks World Oceans Day 2025, and it’s a date I always have circled in my calendar. Why? Well, it’s a day to pause, reflect, and truly appreciate the magnificent, mysterious, and utterly vital blue heart of our planet. From the tiniest plankton to the grandest of the whales, our oceans are brimming with life, regulating our climate, and providing us with so much beauty and wonder.
And that’s what got me thinking. Heading to Dundee end of June, and learning more about the whale research that’s been taking place in and around the remote sub-Antarctic island of South Georgia, is a perfect way to celebrate our oceans. From meeting the British Antarctic Survey (BAS) scientists and hearing directly from the team about their ‘Hungry Humpbacks’ research and experiences, to meeting the principal curator of the Natural History Museum AND meeting artist Michael Visocchi, actually seeing the Key Table of the Whale Memorial that will head to South Georgia… these opportunities don’t happen often!
From 26th – 29th June, Dundee’s waterfront will be buzzing with activity and it looks like it’s going to be an absolutely unmissable experience. I’m particularly excited about the sessions with the scientists Jennifer Jackson, Stephanie Martin and Jo Kershaw who have been carrying out in-depth research into the krill eating habits of the whales around South Georgia. By understanding more about how much krill these magnificent creatures consume during the different seasons they can understand more about how they might be impacted in the future. Imagine hearing directly from the experts who are out there on the front lines, researching these incredible creatures and working to protect them. Can’t imagine what incredible stories they will have to share, so I’m already picturing myself in the audience, soaking up every fascinating fact! Book your seat for the ‘South Georgia Whale Watchers’ whale researchers HERE.
If you’ve popped into the Natural History Museum lately, you’ll know whales have been making quite a splash in the headlines there – and for good reason! But what could be even better than seeing those magnificent displays? How about actually meeting the museum’s Principal Curator, Richard Sabin, and historian Sophia Nicolov in person at the Whale of a Weekend? Imagine having the chance to learn directly from them about their incredible whale collection and how these historical treasures are helping us uncover even more about whales today. It’s a rare opportunity to connect with the past and present of whale research all at once!
It will be a key part of the weekend. But hurry, the sessions are booking up fast I have been told, with some still available on Sunday 29th June. Book HERE.
But perhaps what has captured my imagination the most is getting to see Michael Visocchi’s ‘Whale Memorial’ sculpture and meeting him in person.
I’ve seen pictures of this work but seeing this first piece completed will be breathtaking. His ability to capture the essence and majesty of these animals depicting both their decline during the whaling times and their return to South Georgia will be truly breathtaking. I can only imagine the impact of seeing such a powerful tribute to these incredible creatures in person. It’s a poignant reminder of both their importance and the threats they face. Book your place on Sunday afternoon HERE.
These are just a few highlights of the weekend. A full programme can be found on the South Georgia Heritage Trusts’s website HERE.
As we all know, our oceans are also facing unprecedented challenges – plastic pollution, climate change, overfishing… it can feel overwhelming! That’s why days like World Oceans Day are so important. They remind us that we all have a part to play, however small, in protecting this incredible resource. Whether it’s reducing our plastic consumption, supporting sustainable seafood, or simply learning more about marine life, every little bit helps.
And speaking of making a difference, my eight-year-old’s school assembly next week is all about our oceans! I can’t wait to see her up on stage, singing and talking about the really important issue of plastics in our waters. I’ve got a feeling this young person is going to be a true force for change on our planet!
So, this World Oceans Day, let’s take a moment to celebrate our incredible oceans. And if you’re able to make it to Dundee at the end of June, I might just see you there, soaking up all that incredible knowledge and being inspired by the sheer wonder of the whale!
Links:
Whale of a Weekend programme and booking HERE
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