Bow Seat Ocean Awareness Contest 2026 Project

A NEW CHALLENGE

The ocean has always been central to Bow Seat’s mission. Since the first Ocean Awareness Contest in 2012, we’ve asked students to explore ocean-related issues like marine species conservation, plastic pollution, and climate change. As our organization continues to evolve in new and exciting ways, we wanted to return to the topic that has captivated, moved, and activated tens of thousands of students who have participated in the Contest: the ocean! What value does the ocean bring to all of our lives? We’ve learned about the challenges that threaten the ocean, but why is it so important that we protect it?We challenge you to dive into this year’s theme by exploring how the ocean sustains, protects, and inspires you and your community

Who May Enter

Students ages 11-18 from around the world are invited to participate in the Ocean Awareness Contest. Enter the division based on your age at the time of entry:

• Junior Division: Age 11-14
• Senior Division: Age 15-18

Students can participate as an individual or as a club, class, or group of any size. All students must provide the contact information for an Adult Sponsor (teacher, parent, mentor, etc.) Students who have started college or university are not eligible to participate in the Contest.

Submissions are accepted in:

• Visual Art: Handcrafted
• Visual Art: Digital
• Poetry & Spoken Word
• Creative Writing
• Film
• Performing Arts: Music & Dance
• Interactive & Multimedia

Please review all submission requirements carefully.