SHERIDAN, WYOMING – December 26, 2025 – The ocean tribute Award 2026 is putting marine protection right where it belongs: in the middle of public attention, not tucked away in expert panels. Launched in 2017 by the Monegasque Prince Albert II Foundation, the German Ocean Foundation, and boot Düsseldorf, the award is built around a simple idea—back the people and initiatives who are actually doing the hard work of protecting the ocean, and make their impact visible to everyone.
Why This Award Feels Bigger Than Boating
Even if you don’t own a boat or live near the coast, the ocean shapes daily life in ways we rarely stop to notice—from climate and food systems to biodiversity and the health of coastal communities. That’s why an award like this lands differently: it turns “marine conservation” from an abstract headline into human stories, practical solutions, and projects you can actively support with a vote.
“With the ocean tribute, we want to raise awareness for extraordinary projects and show what is possible and, above all, what is necessary. All of the projects nominated by the jury represent the respect we should show for the oceans on this planet.”
Meet the Five Finalists: From Orcas to Coral Farms
After reviewing submissions for effectiveness, participation, and networking, the jury selected five finalists—each one tackling a different piece of the ocean puzzle.
Here’s what makes them stand out:
- Iberian Orca Guardians (Spain): A “Save The Iberian Orca” campaign focused on one of Europe’s rarest orca populations—only around 35 individuals—using awareness work, sea patrols, and non-invasive research.
- marinecultures.org (Switzerland/Zanzibar): Coral restoration and sponge farming in Zanzibar and on the Tanzanian mainland, including coral tables and large-scale planting on degraded reefs, plus sponge farms that support women’s cooperatives.
- One Ocean Planet Foundation (Spain): A global education program putting children and youth at the center of climate and ocean action through initiatives like Generation Blue and Hero Kids.
- Sailing Insieme / F2 Eco (Austria): A non-toxic antifouling alternative designed to reduce pollutants and microplastics, with a long-use approach that aims to cut annual repainting and washout.
- Turtle Foundation (Cape Verde): Protection of endangered loggerhead turtles on Boa Vista, paired with beach cleanups and upcycling, plus education and swimming programs that build real connection to the sea.
What Happens Next in Düsseldorf
Public voting runs until December 19, and the winning project will be announced on Tuesday, January 20, 2026, during a ceremony at Düsseldorf City Hall. The prize is €20,000—meaning this isn’t just a symbolic trophy moment; it’s funding that can turn into more patrols, more restored coral, more community education, or stronger protection for nesting beaches.
The backdrop matters too: boot Düsseldorf describes itself as the world’s largest yacht and water sports fair, drawing more than 200,000 visitors from over 100 countries and around 1,500 exhibitors. Alongside the spectacle of boats and gear, marine conservation and sustainable technologies are positioned as a core part of boot 2026—making the award feel less like an “add-on” and more like the conscience of the whole event.
Quick Mini FAQ for Voters
Q: What am I actually voting for?
A: Your vote supports one of five nominated marine conservation projects selected by the award jury as standout finalists.
Q: When does voting end?
A: Public voting ends on December 19.
Q: When is the winner announced?
A: The winning project will be presented and announced on Tuesday, January 20, 2026, at Düsseldorf City Hall.
Q: What does the winner receive?
A: The award comes with a prize of €20,000.
Why Your Click Can Matter More Than You Think
It’s easy to feel powerless when it comes to oceans—because the problems can look enormous. But this is one of those rare moments where “support” isn’t vague. A public vote helps spotlight projects that already have momentum and gives them a stronger platform, stronger networks, and resources to keep going.
Vote for your favorite project at https://www.boot.com/ota_2.