Buy Tickets To An Aquatic Adventure At Exploris Aquarium In Portaferry

Enjoy some friendly sharks, a sunken galleon, and a snappy crocodile as you move around the aquarium looking for the best experience available. Along with these sights, there are other exciting things to see, including the Asian small-clawed otters and some seals at the Seal Sanctuary. You can even touch a small shark or a sea urchin and get the most of your Exploris Aquarium experience. The aquarium focuses on the Irish Sea and the Lough; so this is your chance to get a personal experience with some of the native marine species and learn about the history of Strangford Lough and the Viking Heritage attached to it. The aquarium is located just an hour from Belfast and you can easily spot it near the shores of Strangford Lough of Ireland. Book Exploris Aquarium tickets and see some of the super-cute seals and other marine species at the only aquarium in Northern Ireland.

About Exploris Aquarium

What is Exploris Aquarium?

Exploris Aquarium is the only aquarium in Northern Ireland and can be found along the coasts of the Strangford Lough marine nature reserve. The aquarium focuses on the Lough and the Irish Sea and you can find many aquatic species there, including otters, tropical fish, turtles, and a crocodile.

As you enter the aquarium, you immediately notice the history of Strangford Lough as a replica boat from the Vikings is kept there. You can easily pet a stingray, feel the spikes of a sea urchin, and touch the bottom of a small shark. This experience cannot be found everywhere as you will be with the species in their own environment.

There is also the Pirate's Cove and Smugglers Cove, which have fish darting about below. A lakeside lodge has been made for the otters, where they joyfully move around and show everyone how cute they are. The Seal Sanctuary is the highlight of the aquarium as this is where injured, sick, or orphaned pups are rehabilitated in order to be released back into the wild.

Exploris Aquarium has managed to send back hundreds of seal pups to their natural habitat since 1989.

What can I experience at Exploris Aquarium?

Explore the exhibits of the friendly sharks, a snappy crocodile, or a sunken galleon in this stunning aquarium along the coasts of Strangford Lough. Touch the marine species in their exhibits and experience nature as you walk around the exhibits in the aquarium.

There are over 100 marine species in the aquarium and you have the chance to explore and learn about each of them.

There are guides to help you throughout the tour along with panel and info screens near the exhibits. You will also be able to see the reptile exhibition along with the aquarium. The otters and seals are great to check out during the feeding times.

There is also a soft play area and shop along with a licensed café to keep you and your family fed and entertained. There are also interactive stations for kids.

What age is Exploris Aquarium suitable for?

It is suitable for all ages. Adults must accompany children on this tour.

How long does it take to visit Exploris Aquarium?

It will take around two or more hours to completely enjoy the exhibits.

When is the best time to visit?

Exploris Aquarium opens at 10 a.m. and closes at 5 p.m. Do double-check the timings before you leave.

Directions, Venue Info, And Attendee FAQs

Where is Exploris Aquarium located?

The address is Exploris Aquarium, The Rope Walk, Castle Street, Portaferry, BT22 1NZ, UK.

How do I get to Exploris Aquarium?

Take the M6 to reach the destination from London. It is 517 mi (832 km) away.

Portaferry Square is the nearest bus stop and is just two minutes away from the aqaurium.

Either take a train to Holyhead station or Glasgow Central Station and change buses to reach the nearest bus stop to the aquarium.

Where can I park nearby?

Car Park Portaferry is around three minutes away.

Where are the toilet facilities at Exploris Aquarium?

There are toilets available. Accessible toilets are available as well.

Is Exploris Aquarium accessible?

There is level access to the location.

The venue is accessible.

Where can I eat nearby?

Some popular recommendations are Chip Buddy, Oakley Fayre, The Bizzy Bee Bistro, and Fodder.