About us
Our Story
Return to the Ocean began with a simple mission: to do more for the ocean. As a lifelong ocean enthusiast and diver based in Australia, I saw firsthand how fragile marine ecosystems have become—and how much more we could do to protect them. That’s why I created Return to the Ocean: a brand built on ocean conservation, transparency, and a love for adventure.
Our limited edition clothing features designs inspired by endangered marine animals, brought to life by local artists who share our commitment to conservation. Every piece tells a story—of the animal it represents, the artist who illustrated it, and the ocean it helps protect. We’re not just selling shirts; we’re building a movement that empowers ocean lovers to make a tangible impact.
But we didn’t stop at clothing. Our international expeditions invite you to experience the ocean up close—diving with sharks, exploring seagrass meadows, and learning from experts in marine life and conservation. These trips aren’t just about travel; they’re about building a global community of advocates for our oceans.
From day one, we’ve committed 30% of our profits to ocean conservation—supporting grassroots projects, funding research, and donating to organizations that protect the animals featured in our designs. We believe in full transparency: you’ll always know where your money goes and the difference it makes.
Return to the Ocean is still young, and we’re growing with the help of passionate supporters like you. Whether you’re wearing our gear, joining an expedition, or sharing our story, you’re part of a community that stands up for the sea. Together, we can create real, lasting change—one shirt, one story, and one adventure at a time.
what we do
At Return to the Ocean, our mission is to create meaningful change for the ocean through action, creativity, and community. Here’s how we make an impact:
Limited Edition Clothing
We design and release unique, limited edition clothing inspired by endangered marine species, each piece created in collaboration with local artists. Where possible, we use eco-friendly or organic products that meet our high standards for quality and sustainability. When these aren’t an option, we opt for premium materials that are built to last, paired with environmentally responsible inks and printing methods. Our focus is on durability—creating products that stay out of landfill and stand the test of time.
We design and release unique, limited edition clothing inspired by endangered marine species, each piece created in collaboration with local artists. Where possible, we use eco-friendly or organic products that meet our high standards for quality and sustainability. When these aren’t an option, we opt for premium materials that are built to last, paired with environmentally responsible inks and printing methods. Our focus is on durability—creating products that stay out of landfill and stand the test of time.
Expeditions & Experiences
Our international expeditions offer hands-on opportunities to connect with the ocean—whether it’s diving with sharks, exploring critical habitats, or learning from conservation experts. Every trip is carefully curated to ensure ethical practices, safety, and unforgettable experiences for participants.
Our international expeditions offer hands-on opportunities to connect with the ocean—whether it’s diving with sharks, exploring critical habitats, or learning from conservation experts. Every trip is carefully curated to ensure ethical practices, safety, and unforgettable experiences for participants.
Collaborations
We believe in the power of collaboration to drive awareness and action. From artist-designed apparel and co-created expeditions to joint social media campaigns, we work with passionate individuals and organizations who share our vision for a healthier ocean.
We believe in the power of collaboration to drive awareness and action. From artist-designed apparel and co-created expeditions to joint social media campaigns, we work with passionate individuals and organizations who share our vision for a healthier ocean.
Conservation & Giving Back
30% of our profits are dedicated to ocean conservation. We support grassroots projects and organizations that protect the animals and ecosystems featured in our collections, and we’re transparent about where donations go.
30% of our profits are dedicated to ocean conservation. We support grassroots projects and organizations that protect the animals and ecosystems featured in our collections, and we’re transparent about where donations go.
Community & Education
Through storytelling, filmmaking, and educational initiatives, we’re building a global network of ocean advocates. We aim to inspire and empower others to make a difference—whether that’s through wearing our gear, joining an expedition, or sharing our message online.
Through storytelling, filmmaking, and educational initiatives, we’re building a global network of ocean advocates. We aim to inspire and empower others to make a difference—whether that’s through wearing our gear, joining an expedition, or sharing our message online.
Every action, purchase, or collaboration with Return to the Ocean helps keep our oceans thriving for generations to come.
our founder
Return to the Ocean was founded by Jake—a diver, filmmaker, and lifelong ocean advocate based in Australia. With years of exploring and documenting marine life, Jake witnessed firsthand the urgent need to protect our oceans. Driven by a passion for both adventure and conservation, he launched Return to the Ocean to inspire others and create real change.
Jake leads the vision and direction of the brand, ensuring every design, expedition, and collaboration aligns with the mission of ocean conservation and quality. While not every expedition is personally overseen by Jake, his commitment to transparency, ethical practices, and meaningful impact is at the core of everything Return to the Ocean does.
Join Jake and the growing RTTO community in making a difference—one story, one adventure, and one lasting impact at a time.