10 Ocean Facts That Will Change the Way You See the Sea
The ocean covers over 70% of our planet, yet most of it remains unexplored. It’s a place of mystery, beauty, and life that connects us all. Whether you love the beach, admire sea creatures, or simply feel calmer near the waves, the ocean has more to it than meets the eye.
Here are 10 incredible ocean facts that will leave you seeing the sea in a whole new light.
1. The Ocean Is Earth’s Life Support System
Over half of the oxygen we breathe comes from the ocean. Tiny organisms called phytoplankton produce it during photosynthesis. Every breath we take is thanks, in part, to the sea.
2. We’ve Explored Less Than 10% of It
Despite modern technology, humans have only mapped and explored a fraction of the ocean. That means most of it remains a mystery; teeming with unknown species and landscapes.
3. The Deep Sea Is Darker Than Space
Once you dive deeper than 200 metres, sunlight disappears completely. Below this point, creatures rely on bioluminescence (their own light) to survive; making the deep sea one of the most otherworldly places on Earth.
4. The Longest Mountain Range Is Underwater
You might think of the Himalayas or Andes, but the Mid-Ocean Ridge is actually the world’s longest mountain chain. It stretches over 40,000 miles beneath the sea.
5. The Ocean Has Its Own Waterfalls
In the Denmark Strait, cold dense water sinks below warmer water, creating an underwater waterfall more than 3,500 metres deep, which is three times taller than Angel Falls in Venezuela.
6. Sharks Are Older Than Trees
Sharks have roamed the oceans for over 400 million years, long before trees appeared on land. They’re true survivors, adapting through multiple mass extinctions.
7. The Blue Whale Is Louder Than a Jet Engine
Blue whales are the largest animals to have ever lived, and their calls can reach 188 decibels - louder than a jet engine. These sounds can travel hundreds of miles underwater.
8. The Ocean Holds More Historical Artifacts Than All Museums Combined
From ancient shipwrecks to lost cities, the seabed is a time capsule of human history, much of which is still undiscovered.
9. Sea Turtles Can Live for Over 100 Years
These gentle ocean wanderers have been around since the age of dinosaurs and can live for a century or more, symbolising endurance and wisdom.
10. The Ocean Affects Your Mood
Studies show that the sight and sound of waves reduce stress, lower heart rate, and boost feelings of calm. It’s no wonder so many of us feel at peace by the sea.