Rapidly accelerating interest in remote sensing of marine pollution has resulted in the development of a diverse range of appropriate techniques, but remote sensing has yet to reach its zenith in terms of real world applications. To assist in this direction this paper provides an overview of applications. Limitations are outlined and the potential of remote sensing is illustrated by means of case studies. Methods for providing base-line inventories of coastal environments, and measurement of marine properties are reviewed. Pollutants in the marine environment are reviewed and are split into physical, chemical, biological and thermal. The future potential for a more effective use of remote sensing in operational projects is discussed