A formal celebration to mark the completion of the Ocean Vet series will take place next month.

Barr’s Bay Park will play host Step Into the Blue, a launch party and premiere of the final episode of Ocean Vet: Diaries on March 18.

The “shoes optional” event will pay tribute to the late Neil Burnie, the barefoot star of the show, with live music provided by Chewstick.

Andrew Smith, series producer, said: “Neil would have wanted us to celebrate in style and Step Into the Blue promises to be nothing short of that.

“It’s taken a huge amount of time and energy to get this series finished and we can’t wait to show it to you all.”

The series has been sold to multiple networks across Europe and Canada. British and the United States markets are currently negotiating with Cineflix among others.

“We are very happy with current progress,” said Mr Smith. “We look forward to welcoming everyone to celebrate the completion of Ocean Vet, with or without your shoes.”

Ocean Vet: Diaries promises to provide insight into the making of this series, according to a statement released today.

The episode will feature exclusive interviews, including one with Michael Douglas, and behind the scenes footage as it looks back at the crew’s favourite moments, close calls and toughest challenges.

Producers have chosen to show the Diaries episode because it’s a “perfect tribute to Neil and his team’s work”.

The remaining 10 episodes will be shown at the Bermuda Underwater Exploration Institute ahead of all international broadcasts and while only one episode will play on the event’s big screen, the rest will play on screens at the party to showcase Bermuda’s marine environment.

Guests will be welcomed with champagne and cocktails before being given the opportunity to speak with the team and crew.

Tickets are limited to around 300 and cost $150, with net proceeds going to the Neil Burnie foundation and Chewstick

For tickets call 299-2326 or e-mail development.bzs@gov.bm

For more information, contact Andrew Smith on andy@gassproductions.co.uk