Tickets are now available for the 65th annual NOGI Awards Gala, one of the most prestigious evenings in recreational diving, with this year’s ceremony set to take place on Wednesday, 4 November 2026, during DEMA Show in New Orleans.
Hosted by the Academy of Underwater Arts & Sciences (AUAS), the gala celebrates individuals whose careers have made exceptional contributions to the underwater world. Since first being presented in 1960, the NOGI Awards have become widely regarded as diving’s highest lifetime achievement honour, recognising excellence across the fields of Arts, Science, Environment, Sports & Education, and Distinguished Service.
The black tie optional event will be held in the Carondelet Grand Ballroom at the New Orleans Marriott Hotel from 6:00 pm to 11:00 pm.
2026 NOGI Award Recipients
This year’s recipients are:
- Arts: Jonathan Bird
- Sports & Education: Richard “Richie” Kohler
- Science: Professor Simon Mitchell
- Distinguished Service: Howard Rosenstein
- Environment: Cristina Zenato
In addition to honouring the five NOGI recipients, the evening will include presentations of the Zale Parry Scholarship and the AUAS/DAN Diving Medicine Scholarship. The Women Divers Hall of Fame will also hold its 2026 induction and pinning ceremony as part of the celebrations.
AUAS President Dan Orr described the significance of the award, saying the NOGI remains “the oldest and most globally prestigious award in the recreational diving world,” recognising individuals whose careers have made lasting contributions to diving, the industry and the underwater world.
Tickets and Sponsorship Opportunities
Individual tickets are priced at US$195 and include:
- Welcome reception drink
- Three-course dinner
- Wine served at each table
- Dessert and coffee
Tickets must be purchased in advance.
The Academy is also offering sponsorship packages for individuals and companies, along with advertising opportunities in the official gala programme, providing additional ways for businesses to support one of diving’s most respected annual events.
The 2026 NOGI Awards Gala will once again bring together many of the diving industry’s leading explorers, educators, scientists, photographers, filmmakers and conservationists for an evening celebrating lifetime achievement and service to the underwater world.
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