Australian National Maritime Museum to host premiere exhibition opening November 19
Credit – Gergo Rugli – Ocean Photographer of the Year
Sydney photographer Gergo Rugli has been named the winner of the Adventure category of Ocean Photographer of the Year 2026 for his extraordinary image of dolphins cresting a wave alongside surfers at Tamarama Beach in Sydney – a joyful collision of two worlds that share the same water.
In reference to his award-winning image, Gergo said: “A powerful swell and offshore winds had created an incredible morning at Bronte Beach when a large pod of dolphins joined the surfers, riding the waves and weaving through the lineup. Just being out there in those conditions, surrounded by surfers and dolphins, was an incredible experience. Capturing a moment like this was incredibly special, but to have the image recognised as Ocean Adventure Photographer of the Year is a real dream come true.”
In addition to his category winning image, Gergo also had a second image which received 3rd place in the Human Connection category. This image shows a fearless teenager standing at Bronte Ocean Pool, Sydney, as a powerful swell sends waves crashing over the closed pool.
Credit –
Gergo Rugli – Ocean Photographer of the Year
In all, there were 10 Australian or Australian-based photographers nominated as finalists in the competition.
Over 15,000 images were entered from around the world by planet’s leading ocean photographers.
All the finalist images will be on display at the world premiere Ocean Photographer of the Year exhibition at the Australian National Maritime Museum opening on November 19.
Museum Director and CEO Ms Daryl Karp said, ‘We are proud to be partnering once again with Oceanographic Magazine to bring to life the breathtaking Ocean Photographer of the Year exhibition. This exhibition serves as a reminder of not only the beauty that lies beneath the ocean’s surface, but also the world below that is in urgent need of our care and protection.’
The Ocean Photographer of the Year, presented by Oceanographic Magazine and Blancpain, has a simple mission: to shine a light on the wonder and fragility of our blue planet, and to celebrate the photographers giving it a voice.
ENDS
Notes for Editors
All winning photography can be found here.
- Photographers and Ocean Photographer of the Year must be credited alongside images.
- Ocean Photographer of the Year co-presenters Oceanographic and Blancpain must be credited in articles.
- When sharing on social media, tag @opy_awards and credit respective photographers
- A link to the OPY Winners Gallery should be included in all stories.
- If you require higher-resolution images for print, please email [email protected]
For more information on the Ocean Photographer of the Year competition, please visit: Ocean Photographer of the Year (oceanographicmagazine.com)
For media enquiries and images please contact:
Alex Gonzalez e: [email protected] m: 0401 545 778