The Greatest Sanctuary

Life in Antarctica hangs in the balance, but as quickly as conditions have changed, the future of this extraordinary continent—and our future—can be redirected for the better.

As the expedition arrives in Antarctica, Captain Poncet shares his family’s commitment to the continent and the changes he has seen in just a few short years.

With record-high temperatures reaching Antarctica, the crew witnesses firsthand the devastating impact of warmer weather and melting ice.

Every species in the Southern Ocean depends on krill, but industrial fishing is threatening this critical crustacean. Marine biologist Rodolfo Werner shares how marine protection can provide necessary relief and resiliency.

Photographer and SeaLegacy co-founder Paul Nicklen reflects on his experiences with leopard seals, and how the loss of ice is disrupting their habitats and endangering this unique species.

Ecosystems have an incredible capacity to bounce back. Paul and Cristina share how we can reverse the human impact on Antarctica and secure the greatest act of ocean protection in history.

This October, the countries responsible for protecting the Southern Ocean will meet to vote on the creation of three marine protected areas covering almost 4 million square kilometers of ocean. Here, Philippe Cousteau calls for action — and invites you to join the chorus.

The southernmost continent in the world has been heavily exploited by humans, but protecting it for future generations has never been more important than it is now.

Krill, a small shrimp-like crustacean, underpins the food web of the entire Antarctic marine ecosystem. Yet climate change and the concentration of krill fishing in just a few areas are a threat to their existence, and therefore to the existence of all species in Antarctica.