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Exploris Aquarium
Description
Located in Portaferry on the shores of Strangford Lough, you can enjoy a diver's view of marine life from around the world.
Explore the colourful coral reefs of the Tropical Ocean and see if you can find 'Nemo' and 'Dory' before entering the smugglers cove where sharks circle above you. Return to the shores to see endangered but playful otters and witness conservation in action in the nursery seal pens and outdoor pools. Get up close to the penguins, splashing about their new home and one of the many new experience zones.
Don't forget to explore the dark depths of the Reptile filled rainforest where a snappy crocodile and green gecko hide.
After you've checked out the seal sanctuary and jellyfish, browse the gift shop and play at the soft play area, then enjoy something to eat at the Cracken Cafe and Restaurant.
Check out the website for open pool talks and feeding times across the day.
Visit exploirisni.com for more information on:
Please note that last admission time is 4pm.
Portaferry Local Visitor Information Office at Exploris
Within Reception of the aquarium you will find Portaferry Local Visitor Information, displaying lots of literature, useful maps and an interactive touchscreen helping you to explore all there is to see and do locally and beyond, staff are on hand to assist with enquiries.
Don't forget to explore the dark depths of the Reptile filled rainforest where a snappy crocodile and green gecko hide.
After you've checked out the seal sanctuary and jellyfish, browse the gift shop and play at the soft play area, then enjoy something to eat at the Cracken Cafe and Restaurant.
Check out the website for open pool talks and feeding times across the day.
Visit exploirisni.com for more information on:
- Birthday party packages
- Quiet sessions available daily
- Group tour packages with catering
- An exciting new education programme
- Annual membership and gift cards
Please note that last admission time is 4pm.
Portaferry Local Visitor Information Office at Exploris
Within Reception of the aquarium you will find Portaferry Local Visitor Information, displaying lots of literature, useful maps and an interactive touchscreen helping you to explore all there is to see and do locally and beyond, staff are on hand to assist with enquiries.
Top Reasons To Visit
- Fun for all the family
- Educational experience
- Support the Seal Sanctuary
- Annual membership and gift cards
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Seal Sanctuary
With support by DAERA, Exploris responds to calls from the public by taking in sick or abandoned common and grey seal pups.
On your visit, explore the seal hospital and watch the development of the seals as they move to the nursery pool and a rehabilitation pool and enjoy the underwater viewing arena. You will learn about the seals’ journey before returning to the wild.
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Pollution and The Sea
Check out the new ‘pollution zone’, and follow a series of story boards, which tell the story of human-induced climate change in the ocean.
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Rise Of The Jellies
You can observe some local jellyfish species and learn about the exciting global research effort regarding these fascinating animals. While you are visiting, why not brush up on some of your identification skills?
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The Cracken Café and Restaurant
A licensed café and restaurant, providing space to relax and enjoy some fabulous home bakes and authentic fusion cuisine, all sourced from local producers and suppliers, whilst overlooking our seal sanctuary. Check out the menu online. The restaurant caters for any special dietary requirements.
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Eat, shop and play at Exploris Aquarium
- Open 7 days a week from 10am (Last admission time is 4pm)
- Visit the gift shop, full of gifts for family, friends and home
- Visit The Cracken Cafe
- Locally sourced and freshly prepared food
- Speciality coffees and refreshments
- Beers, wines and spirits available.
Contact Details
Gallery
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