ULTRAMARINE, an eclectic community of scientists, policymakers, entrepreneurs, artists, explorers, and athletes founded by Susi Mai and Jeremy McKane with the support of Ocean Unite, gathered once again on Necker Island in the BVI to take action on ocean conservation. Global ocean conservation leaders and luminaries including Ocean Unite CEO Karen Sack, First Lady of Palau Debbie Remengesau, TV personality Danni Washington, and diver-explorers Philippe and Ashlan Cousteau led discussions and presented the urgent issues, opportunities, new findings, and top priorities to be addressed in the effort to meet the ’30x30’ initiative.

Susi Mai stated: “We want to create a culture of ocean conservation in the various sectors our attendees represent. Most ocean conservation gatherings preach to one or another choir. We wanted to create a diverse community of leaders who prioritize taking action, and who will hold each other accountable to the conservation commitments they make.”

One of many highlights was the immediate action taken to form the “BVI Pledge,” which was inspired by the world-leading example set by the island nation of Palau. The Palau Pledge requires visitors to the island nation to sign a pledge in their passports upon entry not to damage or exploit the natural resources of the country. Together, these pledges will help to ensure the protection of local ecosystems and biodiversity in both regions. Both Palau and the BVI will stand as beacons, lighting the path to conservation for other nations around the world.

The strong bonds of a shared and urgent passion formed among the members are already producing results. The annual ULTRAMARINE gathering is next scheduled for early February 2021. The group will return to Necker Island to welcome new members, catalog accomplishments, and set out new goals.

We’re on the brink of shutting off our own life support system.

The oceans are undergoing an onslaught from every angle. Global warming and acidification. Commercial fishing operations. Plastic pollution.

The Ocean Summit, now UltraMarine Ocean Summit, on Necker Island was created by Jeremy McKane and Susi Mai.

The idea was to bring actionists from all around the world in four main categories.

Ocean Impact Investors

Ocean Tech Entrepreneurs

Policy Makers

Artists and Storytellers

Our inaugural Ocean Summit on Necker Island occurred on February 1-3, 2019. Over 70 people from 10 different countries came together not to discuss ideas but to discuss action. Our hope is to make a dent in protecting these oceans each year.

Based on the last extensive study published in Science Magazine, the Oceans could be dead by 2048 based on current rates of exploitation - and since then things have only accelerated.

Together with Sir Richard Branson and a school of ocean friends, we will host an event bringing together luminaries from all walks of life to have a serious conversation about what we need to do next.

Our mission is to catalyze action in an environment curated to form a community of mutual support.