The 21st Annual International Ocean Film Festival (IOFF) at Fort Mason Center for Arts & Culture makes waves with three days of exhilarating, ocean-themed independent film screenings, filmmaker question-and-answer (Q&A) sessions, and free panel discussions.

The IOFF screens more than 50 films from around the globe; ranging from shorts to feature-length work and live-action documentaries. Films focus on fascinating ocean animals and amazing marine environments; such as whales, manatees, sea turtles, sharks, polar bears, leopard seals, giant manta rays, mussels, rainforests, kelp groves, mangrove habitats, and arctic regions. Special programs investigate marine eco-issues, surfing, fish farming, coastal cultures, ancient sea journeys, and more.

IOFF 2024 kicks off with two film programs (4:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m.) and the Opening Night Party (9:00 p.m.) on Friday, April 12, 2024. The party features appetizers, beer, and wine and costs $150 per person, which includes both film screenings (the VIP Friday pass). The film screenings only are $10 to $30 per person. The $350 VIP All-Access Festival Pass includes two parties and access to films and events for all three days.

Individual tickets to single film-screening programs cost $10-$30 based on age. 2024 day passes provide access to all the film screenings at the Cowell on specific weekend days and cost from $40 to $50 depending on age and day selected. The $200 VIP Saturday Pass offers access to four film programs, Panel Discussion VIP seating, and the Saturday night Surf Party.

Screenings occur in the Cowell Theater and free Panel Discussions (reserve space in advance) let loose in the Tidepool in Landmark Building D, First Floor.