Using bibliometric analysis techniques, we trace the evolution of climate and climate-change related articles in major oceanographic journals, 1987-2017. We use these bibliometric tools (network mapping, cluster analysis, alluvial analysis, corpus keyword detection) to document trends in growth, integration and centralization of climate-related research within ocean sciences over the past three decades. Such analysis methods offer an objective and complementary methodology, in contrast to the traditional “expert panel” approach, for guiding long-term strategic science planning. But how does the macro trend compare to scientific outputs supported by large ocean observatory facilities? Have scientists making use of these facilities followed, led or diverged from the general trend? We compare the macro trend to corpora of published science from two such facilities, Australia’s Integrated Marine Observing System (IMOS) and Ocean Networks Canada (ONC). The goal is to discern the extent to which these “big science” ocean observatories have been able to support or lead research that helps inform policy, management and the public about critical societal issues such as long term ocean change.