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. In 2016 a £5 million overhaul transformed the site into a modern visitor destination, adding a larger open‑air aquarium, interactive touch‑pools and a dedicated reptile visitors centre. The redesign emphasised conservation and education, earning a shortlist nomination for Northern Ireland’s ‘Best’ Small Visitor Attraction in 2019. In August 2025 the centre celebrated its one‑millionth visitor, rewarding the lucky family with a holiday to Florida’s premier marine parks.
Awards & Accolades
In October 2026 Exploris received the Tourism NI 5‑star Visitor Attraction seal of approval – the highest quality grading in Northern Ireland. The award recognised the attraction’s recent £2 million investment, its high‑standard conservation work, and the seamless integration of the seal sanctuary with the aquarium experience.
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, 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.
Events & Seasonal Highlights
- Night at the Aquarium – Every Saturday evening a guided tour of the galleries is followed by a three‑course dinner in the Kraken Bar & Grill. Advance booking is recommended.
- Quiet Sessions – Daily from 10:00 am to 11:00 am, the aquarium offers a reduced‑crowd experience for families with young children or visitors seeking a calmer atmosphere.
- Stamping Trail – An interactive map with 12 stations encourages guests to answer marine‑themed questions and collect stamps as they explore the exhibits.
- Seasonal Exhibitions – Throughout the year Exploris hosts temporary displays, such as deep‑sea creature showcases in winter and a summer “Marine Life of the World” exhibition.
- Seal Rehabilitation Tours – Visitors can watch rescued seal pups progress from arrival to release, with staff explaining the conservation work involved.
Educational & Group Activities
Exploris runs tailored school‑group programmes, marine‑science workshops and birthday party packages. Group bookings of 10 people or more can benefit from discounted rates and a dedicated education officer. The venue is fully wheelchair‑accessible, with lifts to all major exhibition spaces and accessible toilets.
Annual Passes & Gift Cards
For frequent visitors, Exploris offers annual passes: £45 for adults and £35 for children, granting unlimited entry, fast‑track access and 25 % off in the gift shop and restaurant (excluding alcohol). A special registered child‑minder pass is also available. Gift cards can be purchased online or at reception and used for admission, restaurant meals or shop purchases.
Recent Wildlife News
In June 2026 the aquarium welcomed its third otter litter – a boy and three girls – born to the Asian short‑clawed otter mother Sungari. The pups are being hand‑reared in a dedicated nursery before joining the family enclosure, providing visitors a rare chance to observe early otter development.
Getting Here & Parking
By Car – The site is accessed via the A2 from Belfast (approximately 45 minutes). On‑site parking is free, with a limited number of disabled bays close to the entrance.
Public Transport – Regular Ulsterbus services run between Belfast and Portaferry; the nearest train station is Belfast Lanyon Place. In summer, a seasonal ferry links Portaferry with Strangford, offering a scenic alternative.
Nearby Attractions – A short drive brings you to Castle Ward (2.7 km), the Somme Heritage Centre (≈27 km) and the Mount Stewart gardens on the shores of Strangford Lough – all excellent additions to a day‑trip itinerary.
Practical Information
- Opening Hours – Oct‑Mar Mon‑Fri 10:00‑17:00, Sat 11:00‑17:00, Sun 13:00‑17:00; Apr‑Sept Mon‑Fri 10:00‑18:00, Sat 11:00‑18:00, Sun 12:00‑18:00. Last admission is 15 minutes before closing.
- Admission – Adult £6.90, Child (4+) £4.00, Concession (OAP/Student) £4.00, Family (2 adults + 4 children) £20.00. Prices should be confirmed on the official website.
- Accessibility – Wheelchair‑friendly routes, lifts, accessible toilets and wheelchair hire on request.
- Facilities – Gift shop, free Wi‑Fi, baby‑changing rooms, picnic area with seasonal BBQ and ice‑cream service.
- Booking – Tickets, night‑time experiences and annual passes can be booked online via the official website.
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.