The 2025 Captain Don Walsh Award for Ocean Exploration has gone to Oliver Steeds OBE.
Steeds will receive his award — bestowed by by the Marine Technology Society and Society for Underwater Technology — at the opening day of Oceanology International London on March 10–12, 2026, at the London Excel Centre in the UK.
Steeds is the chief executive of Nekton, and has been bestowed the award with the following citation:
“In honor of your outstanding, sustained, international contribution to the development, application, and propagation of marine technology toward the advancement of ocean exploration.”
Nekton is a UK-registered charity that aims to advance and drive forward scientific exploration of the oceans through storytelling, knowledge exchange, expeditions and education.
On hearing of the award, Steeds stated:
“I am immensely proud of what we at Nekton have achieved to be considered for this recognition. The Award brings wind in our sails as we continue our mission to explore and protect the ocean. Don Walsh has long been my North Star — his guidance helped shape the creation of Nekton, from our name to our DNA. It is profoundly humbling to receive an award that bears his name, and we remain committed to following his spirit, always swimming against the current.”
Commenting on the award, MTS Immediate Past President Justin Manley stated:
“Oliver Steeds exemplifies Captain Don Walsh’s spirit of exploration through his pioneering leadership and unique ability to unite science, technology, and storytelling. His work with Nekton and Ocean Census is expanding our understanding of the ocean while elevating its vital role in our world. By bridging discovery, innovation, and education, Oliver is helping to shape the next generation of ocean stewards. MTS is proud to honor his profound impact on the future of ocean exploration.”
While the President of the SUT and Chair of the selection panel Benj Sykes added:
“The judging panel agreed that Oliver’s ongoing work with Nekton, Ocean Census and Encounter. EDU is completely aligned with Don Walsh’s vision for the future of ocean exploration and its importance in raising awareness of critical ocean issues, contributing to addressing the solution of crucial scientific, technological, societal and environmental challenges. His close links to Don Walsh make it even more fitting that he receives this year’s Award. SUT wishes him well for all that lies ahead.”
