How many oceans are in the world?

Many know well the three major oceans, the Pacific, Atlantic and Indian oceans. There are now five oceans in the world. Historically, there are four named oceans: the Atlantic, Pacific, Indian, and Arctic. Most countries now recognize the Southern ocean  as the fifth ocean. Here is a link to Youtube video introducing five oceans.

And here is the location of five oceans on the earth.


While there is only one global ocean, the vast body of water that covers 71 percent of the Earth is geographically divided into distinct named regions. The boundaries between these regions have evolved over time for a variety of historical, cultural, geographical, and scientific reasons. Historically, there are four named oceans: the Atlantic, Pacific, Indian, and Arctic. However, most countries—including the United States—now recognize the Southern (Antarctic) as the fifth ocean. The Pacific, Atlantic, and Indian are known as the three major oceans. The Southern Ocean is the ‘newest’ named ocean. It is recognized by the U.S. Board on Geographic Names as the body of water extending from the coast of Antarctica to the line of latitude at 60 degrees South. The boundaries of this ocean were proposed to the International Hydrographic Organization in 2000. However, not all countries agree on the proposed boundaries, so this has yet to be ratified by members of the IHO. (From Ocean Service/NOAA)

Five Oceans: 1. Pacific; 2. Atlantic; 3. Indian; 4. Arctic; 5. Southern

Seven Oceans? Not many people use this phrase today, but we can say that the seven oceans include 1. North Pacific; 2. South Pacific; 3. North Atlantic; 4. South Atlantic; 5. Indian Ocean;  6. Arctic Ocean; 7. Southern Ocean.

*** For more information:

1. Ocean facts: