FORT CAMDEN · CO. CORK

About Oceans of Discovery — Our Story & Our Team

Everything you need to know before you arrive at our Marine Experience inside Fort Camden.

Oceans of Discovery

Oceans of Discovery was founded in 2017 by Cork born marine scientist and dive professional Dave Quinlan, with a vision to inspire a deeper connection to the sea.

Passionate about marine education, we bring the wonders of the ocean to life through exciting, hands-on experiences. We run a hugely interactive marine education roadshow, complete with a mobile aquarium showcasing the incredible marine life found right on our shores. After the hugely successful relaunch of our camps, we’re delighted to return in 2026 with our ever-popular summer camps, now extended over three action-packed days, in and around Crosshaven, Co. Cork.

WHO WE ARE

Oceans of Discovery run an immersive marine experience based within the spectacular surroundings of Camden Fort Meagher. Combining marine education, interactive exhibits, and hands-on experiences, we aim to inspire visitors of all ages to discover the incredible marine life found along Ireland’s coastline.

Originally operating as a PADI Dive Centre, Oceans of Discovery has grown into a dedicated marine education experience led by passionate ocean educators and marine enthusiasts. Alongside our experiences at the fort, we also run popular summer camps around Crosshaven and deliver interactive marine roadshows in schools and locations throughout the region.

Man feeding a small animal from a clear water tank while a child gives a thumbs up in the background.
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OUR STORY

Set within the unique surroundings of Fort Camden, our journey began with a simple idea — to make marine education more engaging, memorable, and accessible for all. By blending the rich history of the fort with modern interactive exhibits, we have created an experience that is both educational and unforgettable.

Today, Oceans of Discovery offers an unforgettable experience where visitors can explore Ireland’s marine world within one of the country’s most spectacular historic forts.

Testimonials

What Our Guests Say

Contact Us
Group of children sitting around a campfire at night, roasting marshmallows and a girl standing telling a story under a starry sky by a lake.
Terri
·Dave brought the Oceans of Discovery Roadshow to our school recently and it was a huge hit with all ages.  The fact that the specimens were all from our local area and the students could see them up close was brilliant.  Everyone left their sessions full of chat, having asked loads of questions.  Wewould highly recommend a visit from Oceans of Discovery to any school.
Gaelscoil Charraig Uí Leighin
Carrigaline, Cork
Group of children sitting around a campfire at night, roasting marshmallows and a girl standing telling a story under a starry sky by a lake.
Ms Orla Barry
We enjoyed an interactive and informative First Aid Presentation by Dave. He concentrated on CPR, choking and the use of a defibrillator as was requested.The staff enjoyed the session and felt they would definitely feel competent to use the defibrillator from now on if the need arose.Dave was very engaging and has great interpersonal skills.
Holy Cross Primary School,
Mahon, Cork
Group of children sitting around a campfire at night, roasting marshmallows and a girl standing telling a story under a starry sky by a lake.
Ms Orla Barry
We enjoyed an interactive and informative First Aid Presentation by Dave. He concentrated on CPR, choking and the use of a defibrillator as was requested.The staff enjoyed the session and felt they would definitely feel competent to use the defibrillator from now on if the need arose.Dave was very engaging and has great interpersonal skills.
Holy Cross Primary School,
Mahon, Cork
Group of children sitting around a campfire at night, roasting marshmallows and a girl standing telling a story under a starry sky by a lake.
Ms Orla Barry
We enjoyed an interactive and informative First Aid Presentation by Dave. He concentrated on CPR, choking and the use of a defibrillator as was requested.The staff enjoyed the session and felt they would definitely feel competent to use the defibrillator from now on if the need arose.Dave was very engaging and has great interpersonal skills.
Holy Cross Primary School,
Mahon, Cork
Group of children sitting around a campfire at night, roasting marshmallows and a girl standing telling a story under a starry sky by a lake.
Ms Orla Barry
We enjoyed an interactive and informative First Aid Presentation by Dave. He concentrated on CPR, choking and the use of a defibrillator as was requested.The staff enjoyed the session and felt they would definitely feel competent to use the defibrillator from now on if the need arose.Dave was very engaging and has great interpersonal skills.
Holy Cross Primary School,
Mahon, Cork
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Ready to Explore Ireland’s Marine World?

Book your visit today and experience a unique combination of marine life, hands-on learning, and historic surroundings.

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