The Oceanographic Institute of Monaco

The five great oceans - Pacific, Indian, Arctic, Atlantic and Southern - merge to form the World Ocean, covering more than 70% of the earth's surface. These vast expanses remain largely unexplored, arousing keen interest among scientists, professionals and enthusiasts the world over. The Principality of Monaco, aware of this challenge, has for decades been committed to the preservation and study of the oceans through its Oceanographic Institute. Let's find out more about this renowned Monegasque institution.

A mission to protect the ocean

Founded in 1906 by Prince Albert I, the Oceanographic Institute of Monaco is a pillar of marine research and preservation. This institution, dedicated to the protection of the oceans, brings together a wide range of players, from scientists to political representatives and the general public, in a collective effort to raise awareness of the crucial importance of marine protection. Through its two main hubs, the Oceanographic Museum in Monaco and the Maison de l’Océan (“House of the Ocean”) in Paris, the Institute deploys awareness-raising initiatives supported by digital tools. This mission is made possible thanks to the support of the Principality's Government, the Prince Albert II of Monaco Foundation, the Scientific Center of Monaco, the Yacht Club of Monaco and HSH Prince Albert II. Recognized as a public utility since 1906, the Foundation works daily to preserve our oceans, under the supervision of a Board of Directors and a Scientific Council.

International reach and committed events

The Oceanographic Institute of Monaco is fully committed to numerous initiatives, both nationally and internationally, helping to raise public awareness of the need to protect the marine environment. Through the regular organization of scientific conferences and symposia, the Institute offers a platform for exchange led by renowned researchers, addressing a variety of themes such as marine biodiversity, climate change and the preservation of marine ecosystems.

Exhibitions on ocean biodiversity are regularly held at the Oceanographic Museum in Monaco and the Maison de l'Océan in Paris. These temporary exhibitions, rich in attractive media such as photographs, videos and models, offer a captivating immersion in the diversity of marine ecosystems, while providing valuable information on marine conservation. This approach aims to raise public awareness of the importance of ocean preservation, a goal shared by the Institute's educational programs, which offer guided tours, interactive workshops and multimedia presentations open to all.

As an active research center, the Oceanographic Institute of Monaco plays a crucial role in the discovery and preservation of the oceans. Numerous scientists conduct groundbreaking studies, the results of which are shared at major gatherings of industry professionals. What's more, the Institute celebrates its battles and research at recurring events such as World Ocean Day and European Sustainable Development Week. These occasions highlight the mission of environmental mediation championed by the Institute every day, through fun activities, prestigious conferences, engaging debates and film screenings, offering a holistic vision of the ocean in all its aspects.

A daily commitment

Through recurring events such as World Ocean Day and European Sustainable Development Week, the Institute continues to celebrate its battles and research on behalf of the marine environment. These initiatives help raise public awareness of the vital importance of preserving the oceans, and promote scientific research in the field of oceanography. The Oceanographic Institute of Monaco has been successfully pursuing its mission to safeguard marine biodiversity for over a century, benefiting from an international reputation and the indispensable support of its partners. Through this prestigious institution, the Principality of Monaco demonstrates its unwavering commitment to protecting the oceans, an essential cause for present and future generations.

Set dramatically above the Mediterranean, the Oceanographic Institute of Monaco is one of the most striking landmarks in the Principality. A visit here fits naturally into an itinerary dedicated to tourism in Monaco, the finest activities in Monaco and the major sporting events in Monaco. To continue the experience, plan a visit to Monaco, discover the Prince’s Palace, the Grimaldi Forum, the Monte-Carlo Opera, the appeal of luxury seafront real estate in Monaco or the must-see Monaco landmarks. And to imagine an address in the heart of the Principality, discover our Monaco apartments for sale.