The newest officially recognized ocean is the Southern Ocean.
Defining the Southern Ocean
The Southern Ocean, also known as the Antarctic Ocean, is the body of water surrounding Antarctica. It's officially recognized by the U.S. Board on Geographic Names and extends from the Antarctic coast to the 60th parallel south latitude. This boundary was proposed to the International Hydrographic Organization in 2000. The National Geographic Society also officially recognized the Southern Ocean in 2021, highlighting its unique characteristics and distinct ecosystem. https://www.afar.com/magazine/the-southern-ocean-was-just-named-earths-fifth-heres-why
Several organizations, including National Geographic, have recently recognized it as a distinct body of water. This designation acknowledges the unique currents, ecosystems, and wildlife found in this region. https://www.discovery.com/nature/watch-out--there-is-a-new-ocean-on-the-block
While the Viking cruise line uses the phrase "newest ocean ship," this refers to the newest vessel added to their fleet, not the designation of a new ocean itself. https://www.vikingcruises.com/press/press-releases/2023-04-26-viking-takes-delivery-of-newest-ocean-ship.html
