Overview
Exploris Aquarium & Seal Sanctuary sits on the tranquil shores of Strangford Lough in the historic fishing village of Portaferry, County Down. Opened after a major refurbishment in 2016, it is Northern Ireland’s only dedicated aquarium and seal sanctuary, drawing visitors from across the island and beyond. The attraction is built around a narrative that starts with the native Irish Sea and Lough ecosystems before whisking guests into a tropical paradise of colourful coral reefs, playful otters and charismatic penguins. Its recent outdoor expansion adds a seal sanctuary, Asian short‑clawed otters, Humboldt penguins, a capybara named Hector and the immersive “Under the Sea Experience Exhibit”.
History & Recognition
Exploris began as a modest marine education centre in the early 2000s, but a 2016 overhaul transformed it into a modern visitor destination. The redesign introduced interactive displays, a larger open‑air aquarium and a dedicated reptile visitors centre. Its commitment to education and conservation quickly earned it a place on the shortlist for Northern Ireland’s ‘Best’ Small Visitor Attraction in 2019, a competition backed by Belfast City Airport and Tourism NI. The nomination highlighted Exploris as a standout example of a small‑scale attraction delivering high‑quality experiences with a footfall under 100,000 per year.
In August 2025 the centre celebrated a milestone – its one‑millionth visitor – underscoring its growing popularity. The lucky family received a holiday to Florida’s premier marine parks, a testament to Exploris’s reputation for memorable, family‑focused experiences.
What to See & Do
Marine Life of the Irish Sea & Strangford Lough
The journey begins with exhibits that showcase the biodiversity of the surrounding waters. Visitors can watch native fish dart through a crystal‑clear tunnel, observe the rhythmic rise and fall of the tide in a simulated Lough environment, and learn about the 400 million litres of water that surge through the lough four times a day. Interactive touch‑pools let children feel the texture of sea‑urchins and starfish under the guidance of knowledgeable staff.
Tropical Paradise
Beyond the local focus, Exploris opens a window onto the world’s oceans. The “Under the Sea Experience Exhibit” immerses guests in a vibrant coral reef populated by neon‑bright fish, sea turtles and shy seahorses. The open‑air aquarium, a highlight praised by the Michelin Guide, allows fish to swim in and out of an underwater cave, creating a dynamic visual spectacle.
Seal Sanctuary & Outdoor Animals
The newly added outdoor area houses a seal sanctuary where rescued harbour seals glide gracefully in a natural‑looking pool. Adjacent habitats host Asian short‑clawed otters, whose playful antics delight onlookers, and Humboldt penguins that waddle across a rocky shoreline. A resident capybara, Hector, provides a gentle, unexpected encounter with the world’s largest rodent.
Family‑Centred Facilities
Exploris is designed with families in mind. A soft‑play zone caters to babies, toddlers and children up to eight years old, offering a safe space to burn off energy between exhibits. The Kraken Bar & Grill serves a menu of locally sourced dishes, with a three‑course “Night at the Aquarium” experience that combines a guided after‑hours tour with a sit‑down meal, perfect for a special evening out.
Practical Information
Exploris welcomes guests every day of the week from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm, with the final admission at 3:45 pm. For those seeking a quieter visit, a dedicated Quiet Session runs from 10:00 am to 11:00 am daily, allowing a more relaxed pace through the galleries. The Kraken Bar & Grill opens at 11:00 am; hot food is served until 4:00 pm, and the bar closes with the main attraction at 5:00 pm.
Ticket prices are straightforward: adults £14.50, children (aged 3‑11) £12.50, concessions £12, and family tickets ranging from £34 for three people to £51 for five. Group and school tours can be arranged by calling the main line (028 4272 8062) and selecting the appropriate option. The centre is fully wheelchair‑accessible, with ramps and lifts to all major exhibition spaces, and staff are on hand to assist visitors with specific needs.
Parking is available on‑site free of charge, and the location is easily reached via the A2 road from Belfast (approximately a 45‑minute drive). Public transport options include regular bus services to Portaferry, with the nearest train station in Belfast.
For the latest updates on special events, seasonal exhibitions and the Night at the Aquarium experience, visit the official website at explorisni.com. Whether you’re a marine‑enthusiast, a family looking for an educational day out, or a visitor eager to taste a unique sea‑side dinner, Exploris Aquarium offers a compelling blend of learning, wildlife and Irish hospitality.