Dive into the ultimate summer adventure and become an Ocean Guardian with Steve Backshall

Calling all explorers! This summer, The Historic Dockyard Chatham has teamed up with legendary wildlife expert and adventurer, Steve Backshall, for an extraordinary journey beneath the waves.

Explore the planet’s coolest underwater habitats and discover the secrets of its most fascinating creatures with Steve Backshall’s Awesome Oceans Family Trail. As visitors explore the site, they’ll tackle an action-packed trail loaded with hands-on challenges, mind-blowing stories, and interactive missions, all inspired by Steve’s adventures.

Explore six epic Ocean Zones

Step aboard for a self-led expedition. Come face-to-face with amazing marine life, from the tiny but mighty Bobtail Squid of the English Channel to the giant Dwarf Minke Whales of the Atlantic and the Emperor Penguins surviving the brutal Antarctic freeze.

Along the way, adventurers will track down the real-world dangers facing our oceans and take on challenges to find out how everyone can help protect the incredible creatures that call them home.

Collect Exclusive Cards

Every young explorer will score a set of exclusive Awesome Oceans collectable cards. Use them to complete the quest and unlock official Ocean Guardian status, then take them home to continue the mission to save our seas.

With Steve’s passion for wildlife guiding the way, visitors will experience the ocean like never before.

Be wowed by the Ocean Photographer of the Year Exhibition

Kick off the expedition with the spectacular Ocean Photographer of the Year exhibition. Prepare to be amazed by jaw-dropping images that capture the breathtaking beauty, raw power and fragility of life beneath the waves.

Make your Ocean Promise

Every great explorer leaves a mark. End the ultimate summer day out by making an official Ocean Pledge on the giant Ocean of Hope wall and join Steve’s team of Ocean Guardians.

Steve Backshall says:

“The Awesome Oceans Family Trail covers a lot of things that are very dear to my heart. The grandeur and nostalgia of maritime history, the vast potential of ocean exploration, and the magical marine marvels that inhabit our seas. Finding a way of getting kids excited and invested in all of this has been a challenge we’ve all relished, and I can’t wait to see the results!”

Book your summer adventure now (included with general admission to The Historic Dockyard Chatham).

Pricing Information

Included with general admission to The Historic Dockyard Chatham.