Ocean Ramsey

Ocean Ramsey, born in 1987 in Oahu, Hawaii, has established herself as a prominent figure in marine conservation. She is widely recognized as a freediver who actively interacts with various shark species, including great white sharks, to raise public consciousness regarding shark conservation. Ramsey has dived with 47 species of sharks globally as of 2019, utilizing these encounters to dispel common misconceptions and promote understanding of these marine animals. Her work emphasizes the critical role sharks play in maintaining healthy ocean ecosystems. Through her efforts, she aims to inspire action and support for marine preservation initiatives.

Ramsey operates One Ocean Diving, LLC, a Hawaii-based company founded with her then-fiancé, Juan Oliphant. This company facilitates dives with marine life, offering educational experiences focused on respectful interaction and scientific research. One Ocean Diving actively engages in real-time data collection, behavioral tracking, and community education programs. Ramsey’s approach has garnered international media attention, notably for a viral encounter with a 20-foot great white shark, Deep Blue (also known as Haole Girl), in Oahu. This event, captured by Oliphant, significantly amplified her message on a global scale.

Beyond her diving activities, Ramsey has been involved in legislative efforts to protect sharks. She played a role in the multi-year campaign that led to the passage of Hawaii House Bill 553 in 2021, which made Hawaii the first U.S. state to ban the intentional killing of sharks in state waters. Her work is also featured in the 2025 Netflix documentary, ‘Shark Whisperer,’ which examines both her conservation efforts and the discussions surrounding her methodology. She conducts monthly beach and reef cleanups on Oahu, supported by her One Ocean Conservation initiative, and offers educational outreach programs.