If you've been following me for a while, you'll know that I didn't plan to become a freelance ocean journalist. My love for writing and passion for the ocean meant it just kind of... happened. People are often surprised that I ended up in such a tight niche accidentally. (Although, I would argue that ocean journalism actually allows me to cover a wide range of different topics). But, whether or not I ended up here on purpose, there are some brilliant things about running my own business as an ocean writer. Here are some of my favourites.

I'm always learning

I'm not a scientist and I didn't study marine biology so, while I love these topics, there's always something new to learn. I love being able to dive into different aspects of our underwater world and find out the latest developments from the scientists working on the front line of marine conservation.

I get to write about super interesting topics

It will come as no surprise that freelancers who niche (not everyone does) usually have a particular interest in their topic of choice. That's definitely the case for me. As a scuba diver, I'm passionate about the ocean and it's that interest that's led me back to writing about the ocean time and time again. So with each new article I get to dive into (pun intended) another aspect of marine life and learn a little more. Very cool.

I have the chance to interview some of the world's smartest people

I would have loved to be a marine biologist but I was never actually great at science. That said, I find it fascinating and being able to write about marine science topics is definitely the sweet spot for me. I'm in awe of the many marine biologists around the world finding out new things all the time about the underwater world and how to protect it. There's still so much we don't know but they're breaking new ground all the time. And I get to interview them and pick their brains - lucky me!

There's so much variety

The ocean supports all life on Earth. As well as being important, it's also rich in the variety of topics it allows me to write about. As an ocean journalist, I cover new scientific discoveries (biology, chemistry, physics), weird animal behaviour, grassroots conservation efforts and the inspiring people making a difference, climate change, sustainability, legislation, green technology, palaeontology, culture, tourism and more. It really has it all.

When I'm lucky, I can get into the field with researchers

OK, so this one if a bit more rare but it does (sometimes) happen. Sometimes, I have the exciting opportunity to join researchers in the field and learn more about their work by interviewing or shadowing them. I've joined marine survey volunteers on ferries, jumped on a dolphin watching boat with cetacean scientists and visited wildlife sanctuaries. I wonder what my next adventure will bring...

I'm having (I hope) a positive impact through my writing

All of these things are pretty amazing but what I love the most is the opportunity to have a positive impact through my marine conservation journalism. Marine scientists around the world are doing such important work and, through my writing, I'm able to amplify their voice to reach more people. Communicating key issues does inspire change: whether it encourages people to donate to important causes, make changes in their lifestyles or even pursue an impact-led career, I love the thought that I can make a difference through my work.

I hope you've enjoyed my musings on my favourite bits of being an ocean journalist. Hop back over to my blog for a roundup of the worst bits!

Thanks so much for reading. I hope reading about my story helps you in your own career journey. I'm happy to offer my insights for free to help young writers (or career switchers!). But if you've found this useful, I'd be very grateful for anyone who considers buying me a virtual coffee.

Work with me

Hi, I'm Mel and I write about the ocean. If you enjoyed this blog and my other published work and need copywriting support for your own ocean projects, let's chat. I'm available for commission from organisations and editors to help with articles, blogs, web copy, reports and more.

If you're interested in commissioning me, feel free to get in touch for a chat - I'd love to hear from you.