From September 2014, scuba divers and ocean lovers in the United Kingdom will be able to immerse themselves in the wonders of the ocean without getting wet as the International Ocean Film Festival hits UK theatres for the first time.

The festival, which originates in Australia, will feature a selection of the world’s most captivating ocean-themed short films and will be shown in 17 towns and cities across the UK including Bristol in the South West where Project AWARE will be exhibiting.

"We thoroughly enjoyed the Ocean Film Festival Australia earlier this year so we're really excited to have another opportunity to be a conservation partner of this awe-inspiring film festival." says Domino Albert, Project AWARE Manager UK office. "Book a ticket* now and let the Ocean Film Festival UK Tour inspire you to further explore, respect, enjoy and protect our ocean."

Designed to mesmerise and enthrall, the International Ocean Film Festival showcases more than two hours of sublime footage taken above and below the water’s surface. The films document the beauty and power of the ocean, and celebrate the divers, surfers, swimmers and oceanographers who live for the sea’s salt spray; who chase the crests of waves; and who marvel at the mysteries of the big blue.

Heart-stopping shots of surfers riding wild waves and jawsome scenes of divers swimming with white sharks will leave audiences on the edges of their seats. The films also encourage viewers to dive head first into ocean culture as the festival is filled with touching interviews and insightful narrations from the characters whose lives are inspired by the ocean.

Together with the International Ocean Film Festival, Project AWARE shares a positive vision for the future of our ocean. Each of the festival’s films conveys a deep respect and appreciation for the world’s oceans and the creatures that call them home. 

For information, locations and bookings, go to www.oceanfilmfestival.co.uk

*The 2014 International Ocean Film Festival UK Tour will donate 25p from every ticket sold to Project AWARE. 

The Ocean Film Festival is also touring in Belgium in October 2014 - For more information click here.

Photo from the film "The Giant and the Fisherman"