Under the Sea at Exploris Aquarium in Portaferry

25th August 2023

A new `Under The Sea’ experience has been launched at the Exploris Aquarium in Co. Down thanks to financial support from Tourism NI. A 250,000 litre Ocean Tank has been installed at the Portaferry attraction through Tourism NI’s Experience Development Programme. 

The ambitious new addition drew on the vision of Aquarium Director, Kieran Quinn, to create an underwater adventure at Exploris. It introduces a view of marine life through an acrylic tunnel. Visitors experience five different perspectives of sea life, including under the sea and above the ocean.

Gerard Toner, General Manager of Exploris Aquarium, said: “Over the last six years, we have delivered several projects at Exploris and the new tank is the most impressive one yet.

“Visitors have been required to take a detour in recent months as we have installed the new experience. I am sure that everyone will be impressed to see what has been going on behind the closed off area,” he said.

David Roberts, Director of Strategic Development at Tourism NI, said that the organisation welcomed the enhanced experience now on offer at Exploris.

“This innovative development gives a new reason to visit the popular attraction at Exploris,” he said.

“Visitors will learn about our nature and wildlife in an immersive and accessible way”.

“This investment will really add to the Exploris experience and bring more visitors to both Exploris and the surrounding area”.

Further information about the new `Under The Sea’ experience is available at www.explorisni.com