“If we save the sea, we save our world.” With these sobering words, Sir David Attenborough delivers what may be his most urgent call to action yet. Ocean With David Attenborough, a feature-length documentary marking the first partnership between the renowned broadcaster and National Geographic, will premiere across Africa on Friday, 13 June 2025 at 20:30 (CAT) on National Geographic (DStv 181 and Startimes 220), and will stream on Disney+ South Africa.

Produced by Silverback Films and Open Planet Studios, this film arrives at a pivotal time, aligned with World Oceans Day and the United Nations Ocean Conference 2025 in Nice, France. It offers a stark, visually arresting journey into the fragile, interconnected ecosystems of the world’s oceans — ecosystems now in existential peril.

Attenborough’s cinematic odyssey explores underwater marvels from giant kelp forests to towering seamounts, while spotlighting the devastating effects of destructive fishing practices, including bottom trawling and dredging. Yet, amid the damage, the documentary underscores a message of hope: marine life can recover, and quickly, when given sanctuary.

Tom McDonald, Executive Vice President of Global Factual at National Geographic, stated:

"I’m thrilled that audiences worldwide will engage with Sir David’s signature storytelling and the inspirational message of this film through the power of National Geographic’s platforms."

Notably, Ocean With David Attenborough doesn’t stop at awareness — it positions itself as an educational tool. Later this year, National Geographic Pristine Seas will distribute the documentary to schools, universities, museums, and public libraries, integrating it into environmental education initiatives to nurture the next generation of ocean defenders.

Directed by Toby Nowlan, Keith Scholey, and Colin Butfield, the film’s executive production team includes industry leaders and environmental advocates from Silverback Films, All3Media International, National Geographic, and multiple conservation organisations.

As global leaders debate policy and climate frameworks, one fact becomes undeniable: without thriving oceans, humanity faces an irreversible crisis. Attenborough’s legacy project is both a warning and a lifeline — a vivid reminder that the solutions exist, if we choose to act.

The question remains: Will we listen?

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