Exploris Aquarium

Visit Exploris Aquarium.

Northern Ireland’s only public aquarium is in the picturesque town of Portaferry, on the shores of Strangford Lough. This inlet of the Irish Sea is a haven for marine wildlife, visited by common seals, basking sharks and three-quarters of the global population of the migratory pale-bellied brent goose.

The aquarium was set up in 1989 as a seal sanctuary, but later became a visitor attraction that exhibited animals from Stragford Lough to the public. Over the years, it has acquired representatives of more exotic species,and the aquarium is now home to animals that live in and around the water in many parts of the world.

Walking around the venue, you come face to face with otters, penguins, frogs, snakes and many kinds of colourful fish. There are talks and feeding sessions led by our knowledgeable staff members throughout the day and special events in our annual calendar.

We’re proud to have an “undersea experience” tunnel in a 25,000-litre saltwater tank, a fully licensed restaurant and a gift shop among our facilities and we look forward to welcoming you to them!