How Many Oceans Are There? The Five Oceans of the World

While traditionally four oceans were recognized, the International Hydrographic Organization and most nations now acknowledge five distinct oceans:

Pacific Ocean – The largest and deepest.
Atlantic Ocean – The second largest, separating the Americas from Europe and Africa.
Indian Ocean – The third largest, bounded by Africa, Asia, and Australia.
Southern Ocean – Encircling Antarctica, recognized in 2000.
Arctic Ocean – The smallest and shallowest, centered on the North Pole.

These five interconnected bodies of saltwater cover over 70% of Earth's surface.

South Pacific