This book presents the development of oceanography of European regional and coastal seas over the last 50 years. It describes the evolution of scientific practice alongside the technological development of measurements and computer modelling. Emphasis is placed on transformation of basic research into applied science and services. This reflects the growing public awareness of ocean issues. The recent advancements in the field of operational oceanography are presented as an important scientific response to the needs of environmental protection and sustainable development. The book could be of interest to scientists and students in various fields of oceanography, to practitioners in the field, and to the general readership interested in environmental sciences.