Johannesburg, 9 June 2026: To mark World Oceans Day this month, National Geographic Wild (DStv 182, StarTimes 221) is taking audiences beneath the ocean's surface with Beneath the Waves, a special programming event airing every Sunday in June at 18:00 CAT. The feature offers viewers a captivating look at the wonders and mysteries of the marine world.

Observed globally, World Oceans Day serves as an important reminder of the vital role oceans play in sustaining life on Earth. Covering more than 70% of the planet, oceans regulate climate, produce much of the oxygen we breathe and support extraordinary ecosystems teeming with life. Yet these vast underwater worlds face mounting pressure from pollution, habitat destruction and climate change, making conservation more urgent than ever.

Timed to coincide with this important moment of global reflection and action, Beneath the Waves will showcase the breathtaking beauty, astonishing biodiversity and hidden stories of life below the surface. Through powerful storytelling and extraordinary cinematography, the special programming event will explore everything from glowing marine creatures and thriving coral ecosystems to ancient shells and ocean giants fighting for survival.

From dazzling natural phenomena to urgent environmental realities, the programming block will offer viewers a chance to understand the ocean’s critical importance while inspiring a deeper appreciation for the blue heart of our planet. Programming includes:

Sunday 14 June at 18:00 - Red Sea: Evolution's Magic Garden

Discover natural history’s largest and most biodiverse coral reefs on Earth in the Red Sea. Even on the seemingly dry coasts and islands, there is a fantastic profusion of animals and plants.

Sunday 21 June at 18:00 - Shells: Shaped by Nature

A tribute to the enigmatic splendour of the shells that grace Africa’s marine realms: Delve deeper into the origins and evolution of these intricate marvels through untold stories of survival, adaptation and the equilibrium of life beneath the waves.

Sunday 28 June at 18:00 – Deep Sea Titans

From sunlit shallows to crushing depths, ocean giants battle to survive.

For viewers looking to continue their ocean-inspired viewing beyond Beneath the Waves, Disney+ in South Africa offers numerous National Geographic documentaries that dive deeper into the wonders of marine life. Titles such as Secrets of the Whales and Secrets of the Octopus provide fascinating insight into the intelligence, behaviour and hidden worlds of some of the ocean’s most remarkable creatures. Secrets of the Penguins offers another beautifully shot exploration of life shaped by extreme environments and survival.

These specials offer viewers the chance to pause, look beneath the surface and reconnect with one of the most powerful forces shaping life on Earth. Understanding the ocean is an important step towards protecting it.

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