Who is Ocean Ramsey? Meet the freediver who swims with one of nature's deadliest apex predators

Who is Ocean Ramsey? Meet the freediver who swims with one of nature's deadliest apex predators

A Netflix documentary, Shark Whisperer, has been made about her – but who is Ocean Ramsey?

Published: June 11, 2025 at 3:29 pm

A new Netflix documentary, directed by the Academy Award–winning director of My Octopus Teacher, focuses on the ocean's deadliest apex predator – and the woman who's determined to save them.

Shark Whisperer follows the rise of social media star Ocean Ramsey and captures her passion for sharks, as well as the criticism she attracts for it. So who is she?

Who is Ocean Ramsey?

Ocean Ramsey is a conservationist and shark activist. She's known for sharing videos of her freediving with sharks in open waters which she does to challenge negative perceptions of the apex predators. However, she has attracted controversy about this due to her proximity to the sharks – and even touching them.

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Why does she swim with sharks?

Ocean has said that she uses her platform to change people's perceptions of sharks and to campaign for their safety.

Has Ocean Ramsey swam with great white sharks?

Yes, she has swum with great whites before – including Deep Blue, a Hawaiian great white measuring almost 20ft long and weighing around 2.5 tonnes.

How old is Ocean Ramsey?

Ocean Ramsey was born in 1987 in O‘ahu, Hawaii.

How long can she hold her breath?

According to her website, Ocean can hold her breath for 6 minutes 45 seconds.

Who is Ocean Ramsey married to?

Ocean is married to Juan Oliphant, who is an underwater photographer and videographer. They co-founded their own business which runs freediving experiences with sharks.

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Main image: a still of Ocean Ramsey from Shark Whisperer. Credit: Netflix

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