<p>This article reflects on the utility of strategic narratives in public diplomacy by drawing on the author’s research, and it identifies promising research agendas. In four parts, it demonstrates how strategic communications influence global infrastructure politics, global governance and global policy, diffusion of artificial intelligence in the blue economy, and ocean governance. Future scholarship should investigate the discursive dimensions of maritime infrastructure, analysing the competing narratives that emerge from political, aesthetic, legal, scientific, technical, and security controversies. Moreover, it is recommended to examine the persuasive tactics of port branding as integrated with digital, sustainable, circular, or multi-modal strategies. More broadly, studies should tackle how states position themselves internationally as ‘blue’ or ‘maritime’, and the effectiveness of this strategic communication in securing partnerships, global trade, or foreign investments. In addition, more research is needed on policy-specific strategic narratives for biodiversity loss, climate change, blue growth, and maritime security, and the opportunities and challenges to align these agenda narratives. Overall, the article advocates for the explanatory power of strategic narratives in multi-disciplinary studies combining International Relations and the Marine Social Sciences.</p>