SEA LIFE Melbourne Aquarium's Oceanarium Re-Opens After Major Makeover

5 January 2024 | 10:52 am | Jessie Lynch
Originally Appeared In

The newly renovated Oceanarium is now open to the public.

Sea Life Melbourne Aquarium

Sea Life Melbourne Aquarium (Sea Life Melbourne)

Sea Life Melbourne Aquarium has reopened its Oceanarium doors to the public after undergoing a multi-million dollar renovation.

The highly anticipated permanent exhibition, Night on the Reef, gives visitors an unparalleled look into the exciting world of bioluminescence beneath the ocean's surface.

The Oceanarium, which closed its doors in early 2023, has now emerged from a nine-month dry period with a remarkable makeover, marking the first time the Oceanarium has been emptied since it was installed at the aquarium 24 years ago.

A total of 34 tonnes of sand, 2.2 million litres of water, and 74 tonnes of premium salt have been meticulously utilised to create a breathtaking ocean floor landscape that mirrors the vibrant life of coral reefs worldwide.

Night on the Reef is designed to offer visitors a 360-degree view of the awe-inspiring underwater world.

The world-class exhibition is home to a diverse array of marine creatures, including sea turtles, tropical fish, ocellated eagle rays, reef sharks, and giant guitarfish. The habitat is also adorned with corals of various colours, shapes, and sizes, providing an immersive experience that mirrors the diversity found in reefs across the globe.

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One of the standout features of the exhibition is the bioluminescence beach, complete with digital projections that visitors can walk along.

The innovative addition adds an extra layer of magic to the already enchanting environment, allowing guests to experience the wonders of bioluminescence in a unique and interactive way.

But Sea Life Melbourne Aquarium is not just about entertainment; it is also dedicated to education and conservation.

Night on the Reef serves as a crucial element in the aquarium's mission to raise awareness about preserving oceans and protecting the marine life within them. Through the groundbreaking exhibition, Sea Life Melbourne Aquarium aims to foster a deeper appreciation for the world's oceans and inspire visitors to contribute to conservation efforts.

The newly renovated Oceanarium is now open to the public, inviting visitors to embark on a magical journey through the wonders of the deep sea.

More info is available on the Sea Life Melbourne Aquarium website for those eager to experience the captivating Night on the Reef exhibition.