About Kensington
Nekton
Nekton is a research foundation and institute created to accelerate the scientific exploration and protection of the ocean. Nekton works hand-in-hand with an alliance of over 100 partners and scientists from over 650 institutes to undertake large-scale ocean initiatives to advance our knowledge and connection with the ocean – through expeditions, scientific research and inspiring story-telling campaigns. Through its missions, Nekton gives a voice to the ocean, strengthens equity through opportunity and forges a resilient ocean future for all.
First Descent: Indian Ocean
Kensington is a Mission Partner of First Descent: Indian Ocean, a series of expeditions and initiatives designed to advance the exploration and conservation of the Indian Ocean.
The least scientifically known and least protected ocean on Earth, the Indian Ocean is warming three times faster than the Pacific Ocean. By 2050, it will be home to half of the world’s population.
Flagship missions have included Seychelles (2019), Maldives (2022), and Comoros (2025).
Ocean Census
The Ocean Census is the largest program in history dedicated to discovering life in our ocean. Despite the vastness of the world’s ocean, only about 240,000 marine species have been documented—a mere 10% of what scientists believe exists.
Launched in April 2023 by The Nippon Foundation and Nekton, the Ocean Census mission is to discover ocean life at an accelerated rate. Undertaken by a global alliance of partners, the open network brings together philanthropy, government, and business with science, media, and civil society in a coordinated effort to vastly expand our understanding of marine biodiversity.
A cornerstone of the Ocean Census is its commitment to open access and equitable data sharing. All scientific findings and information are made freely available to the global scientific community, decision-makers, and the public. By promoting inclusivity, transparency, and collaboration, the Ocean Census aims to drive positive change and inform effective conservation policies.
The Ocean Census is an endorsed Program of the United Nations Ocean Decade with scientists from over 600 institutes collaborating. With support from Kensington as a Founding Partner of Nekton, our investments have helped enable this program to take off.
Ocean Rising
Ocean Rising connects the ocean and culture.
Founded by Nekton and Schmidt Ocean Institute, Ocean Rising unites ocean science, conservation, expeditions and storytelling with arts, fashion, sport, music, gaming, film, and all cultural sectors. By working together, we weave the ocean into the fabric of everyday life.
Ocean Rising’s goal is to create a global network and cultural movement—The Rising—of ocean and cultural brands and icons giving voice to the ocean, inspiring awareness and action through creative, high profile, cultural interventions and events, supported in part by Kensington.
Partnerships include Uniqlo, Vogue, fashion designer Jenny Packham, sculptor Tess Campbell along with Nekton’s partnerships with Omega, Sky, Helly Hansen and others.
The Ocean Awards
The Ocean Awards celebrate exceptional contributions to ocean science, conservation, and education, bringing global recognition to efforts that inspire meaningful change. Winners become part of a diverse community of changemakers whose stories resonate worldwide, encouraging further innovation and collaboration.
The Ocean Awards is held in partnership with BOAT International and Nekton, and in association with Kensington Yachts.
One Journey. Double the Impact
With Kensington Cares, one plus one really is greater than two. We donate 1% of all trip sales to support meaningful change through our trusted global partners. Our clients have the option of matching this promise with their own 1% donation, multiplying the positive impact of their journey. Help us make an impact on people’s lives and communities, and the world we all share.
