GEBCO Symposium 2026

Under this year’s theme, “From a Seabed Mapping Strategy to Global Ocean Action”, the Symposium will explore mapping progress, ocean governance, marine spatial planning, biodiversity protection, innovation, sustainable ocean management, and more.

The programme will combine strategic discussions, technical sessions, interactive workshops, and action-oriented outcomes aligned with the Ocean Decade and preparations for UNOC4.

Topics to be discussed will include:

• Seabed mapping: Progress and Remaining Gaps
• Data Gathering and Processing
• The Dilemma of Open Data
• Innovation Driving the Future of Ocean Mapping
• Mapping for Society and Sustainability
• And much more

Registration

People interested in participating in-person in Cartagena are invited to register here.  

The symposium will take place 8–9 October 2026 in Cartagena, Colombia. The exact venue will be confirmed end of June.

Call for Contributions

The Symposium Organizing Committee is inviting contributions from experts, early-career professionals, researchers, hydrographers, policymakers, industry representatives, students, and ocean enthusiasts from around the world. We encourage submissions that showcase innovative research, practical applications, technological developments, case studies, collaborative initiatives, and emerging perspectives.

This is an opportunity to share your work with an international audience, contribute to meaningful discussions, and help shape the future of ocean knowledge and stewardship.

To submit a contribution, please fill out the questionnaire. 

The deadline to submit a contribution is Friday 10 July 2026. 

Logistical Information:

The GEBCO Symposium will be held at the Hotel Capilla del Mar in Cartagena. Symposium Attendees wishing to stay in the same hotel as the event can book a room with a preferential rate using the links below. Alternatively, there is a also a wide selection of hotels in the Bocagrande neighbourhood near the symposium venue.