i am wondering if i made the right choice starting my Phd in oceanography....i no longer want to work in research or academia....will it help or hinder other jobs?

I dont know much about oceanography, but normaly phd's mean that if you work in industry (e.g for a drug company) you get paid alot more.

but dont forget to include something about "cocaine refinement process" if u want to work for a drug company

Your PhD will not generally hinder you in applying for other jobs.