Duration:
1h
Located in the heart of Melbourne CBD on the banks of the Yarra River, SEA LIFE Melbourne Aquarium is home to thousands of sea critters spread across 12 different zones.
Operated By:
SEA LIFE Melbourne Aquarium is one of Melbourne’s top attractions for families. Discover a dazzling display of marine life for yourself with these great value tickets to the must-see aquarium. Located in the heart of Melbourne CBD on the banks of the Yarra River, SEA LIFE Melbourne Aquarium is home to thousands of sea critters spread across 12 different zones. See Antarctic Penguins slip and slide in their cosy exhibit and don’t miss out on the brand new ‘Ocean Invaders’ exhibit that will take you inside the mysterious world of jellyfish.
Additional Information
- All children under the age of 16 must be accompanied by an adult (18 years or over)
- Children under 4 years are unable to join the Glass Bottom boat
- Tickets are non-refundable
- Please be ready to make on-site payments using a ‘contactless’ bank card, rather than cash
- SEA LIFE Melbourne Aquarium politely requests that you refrain from visiting should you start displaying any of the symptoms associated with COVID-19
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We had a great time at Sea Life. My daughter and I also did the glass bottom boat experience and our guide Milo was fantastic. Highly recommend. Unfortunately no cameras allowed in the boat so I couldn’t post photos for you.
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Stacey
26 Aug 2025
We visited the Sea Life Aquarium during our recent visit to Melbourne. We bought our tickets online and were at the doors at opening time. What a brilliant few hours we spent looking at the displays and learning about the animals. We especially enjoyed the fish, turtles, etc swimming above us from the underwater tunnels, and the penguin display. We indulged in two virtual experiences - shark and whale - which we thoroughly enjoyed. Other patrons were aged from infancy to old age, and everyone seemed to be having a good time. We highly recommend it.
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Jeannie
26 Aug 2025
I've visited the aquarium twice in my 45 years, "for the kids" and loved it every time. Having a few tropical tanks at home, the scope of this place is absolutely incredible! We went on the glass bottom boat ride this trip and it was absolutely amazing, I highly recommend it. The whole aquarium is really well set up, make sure you take the time to read about all of the inhabitants on your way around. The penguins are super interesting if you take the time to watch them for a while.
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Lisa
25 Aug 2025
Hate this place
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kelly
20 Aug 2025
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ma1g
19 Aug 2025
1 - Firstly it is not inexpensive. Even with seniors concession, it was still a serious chunk of money for the privilege.
2 – it is a complex building, partly below ground. With something like 15 feature areas. And signage that is simply and woefully inadequate. Yes, we were handed a little brochure once we had bought our tickets and got scanned in – but no one mentioned that the brochure is actually a map, so we didn’t look at it at the time. Would have perhaps been helpful – since we literally had no idea what was ahead of us. There are many corners and doorways and some, but very few direction arrows. It would be very simple for the aquarium to have a continuous yellow line on the floor – to follow. Hopeless signage.
3 – In our travels we saw very few staff/personnel that we could ask where we actually were. We found one by chance.
4 – yes, there are a lot of fish in the tanks. Very many “varieties”. And we couldn’t help thinking that the tanks were actually too small for the number of fish – especially in the “penguin playground” area. Overcrowding seemed common, even for fish – and an obvious lack of stimulation for the fish themselves. Except to look at the human specimens looking at them. It raised serious Animal Welfare questions for us. Shame.
5 – the “shop” at the end of the journey was chock-a-block with stuffed fish, penguins, octopuses etc. all for kids. But why not a serious souvenier book for the adults? Including even some souvenier books on Melbourne. None that we could see – and we were ready to spend some money. Shame.
6 – there is much to learn from this experience – about fish and about our cherished Sealife. So much to learn. Very sadly the opportunity for us to do so was badly compromised by the number of screaming children there at the same time. There is absolutely no value in young parents bringing a 2 or even 5 year old toddler into this Aquarium. Or even older children. They are simply too young to benefit from the experience. And the noise of screaming or squealing children makes it profoundly uncomfortable for adults who are there to experience and to learn about our fish and Sealife. The Aquarium should schedule a day a week, or perhaps 2 afternoons a week where children under say 10 are not allowed in. A quiet time – for people who want to experience this amazing facility without screaming kids running around and indeed getting under your feet. As for young parents with prams no, the prams are not allowed in, but how is it then that we nearly fell across some?
Overall – what should have been a serious and worthwhile learning opportunity, was not a pleasant experience in any sense. Extreme noise from too many children - and the overall experience not helped by lack of guidance including proper signage and a lack of obvious staff.
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Albert
18 Aug 2025
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Naomi
17 Aug 2025
Had a wonderful time at the aquarium! It was very educational and you could see how much care they have for the animals!! Also absolutely love the penguin exhibit!! By far the best! I went on my Birthday as a present to myself and it’s the best decision I made! Staff a super friendly and so many different species to see! Must go to in Melbourne for sure!
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Tina
30 Jul 2025
Firstly wtf is with the discount if booking advance v buying at the door or even buying online on the day. Price gouging or what! Poor show people. Then despite now being armed with tickets we still had to queue up behind a horde of people waiting to hire prams. So we could have just waited anyway and bought at the desk. A couple with their kids too, slightly in front of us made similar comments.
Inside was okay but having seen similar exhibits elsewhere it’s a variation on a theme but still well done.
Staff were excellent, helpful and friendly as well as informative about the displays.
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Road03232280679
24 Jul 2025
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Rosemary
19 Jul 2025
I had such a fun time attending sea life! I hadn’t visited the aquarium in quite a few years and it was such a nostalgic and fun experience!! I definitely would recommend purchasing tickets in advance as the line for pre-purchased tickets with a lot quicker than people needing to lineup to purchase tickets .
The aquarium was really informative and they held information groups that spoke about the different types of sea life and she could also touch the shark eggs and the starfish which was included in the interactive information session . Getting to see all the sea life was definitely a huge highlight of my day and I particularly enjoyed seeing all the penguins swimming , cuddling together as well as being fed ! I would definitely recommend visiting with friends , your family or your loved ones !🐟🦈🪼🐙🦞
The aquarium was really informative and they held information groups that spoke about the different types of sea life and she could also touch the shark eggs and the starfish which was included in the interactive information session . Getting to see all the sea life was definitely a huge highlight of my day and I particularly enjoyed seeing all the penguins swimming , cuddling together as well as being fed ! I would definitely recommend visiting with friends , your family or your loved ones !🐟🦈🪼🐙🦞
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Tahlia
23 Jun 2025
Sea Life Melbourne Aquarium is a great place to see a huge range of mostly aquatic creatures in very well maintained displays.
I recommend booking your tickets in advance on their website as it gets a little busy sometimes.
There are so many live displays that are split up into different areas on several levels. Wheelchair access is no issue for every display.
There are so many huge tanks and regular talks from friendly staff. The stand-out staff member was Dan W, who went out of his way to ensure we had a great time.
I recommend booking your tickets in advance on their website as it gets a little busy sometimes.
There are so many live displays that are split up into different areas on several levels. Wheelchair access is no issue for every display.
There are so many huge tanks and regular talks from friendly staff. The stand-out staff member was Dan W, who went out of his way to ensure we had a great time.
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Derek
02 Feb 2025
We were wondering whether it was worth visiting SEA LIFE Melbourne since its pretty expensive, and we've already visited the Sydney one.
It was still a good experience, and the family enjoyed it. Much more spacious and less crowded in Melbourne compared to Sydney. We arrived at opening time on a school holiday weekday. Different displays to Sydney. The penguin area was definitely a highlight. And the kids in particular, enjoyed the 4D Happy Feet experience.
It was still a good experience, and the family enjoyed it. Much more spacious and less crowded in Melbourne compared to Sydney. We arrived at opening time on a school holiday weekday. Different displays to Sydney. The penguin area was definitely a highlight. And the kids in particular, enjoyed the 4D Happy Feet experience.
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Michelle
29 Jan 2025
All enclosures were clean and well maintained.
Walking as sharks, rays and turtles swimming above you and around you was absolutely breathtaking.
The signs were amazing and informative but short enough for the kids to read.
The crocodile was a thrill to see on two levels that the kids just absolutely loved.
Good amount of cafes around to stop at.
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Alisha
17 Jan 2025
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Kimberley
07 Jan 2025
When we came here, there wasn't a line up to get in, so we didn't have to wait long at all. You can go at your own pace and spend as long as you like getting photos, etc. The displays are very informative. If you take the time to read the information along the way, you'll find out a lot of cool facts. We didn't take any food with us so we stopped at the cafe and got a feed. It was OK.
Our youngest is 11, and she loved it all.
Our youngest is 11, and she loved it all.
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Brad
05 Jan 2025
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Crystal
03 Jan 2025
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Thehaikubandit
27 Dec 2024
This place was nice on my previous visit some 8-9 years ago, but this time it was a waste of money. Go else where.
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Banjotails007
23 Dec 2024
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LennyLH
20 Dec 2024
Overall experience is good, children will enjoy the time inside! Active and healthy sea creatures makes you feel alive,Penguins made me happy which is at the very end of the aquarium trail. You can download the pictures they take as digital copies or get them printed for $10-12(only photos) and $40 for the photos with album. Don't miss the 4D theatre where they screen Happy Feet!
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Arun
08 Dec 2024
Was a small line. Got your photos taken on the way in.
Really loved this place.
Interactive stuff for kids.
Lots of marine life to look at.
Pesto was top tier. Everyone got a chance to see him.
The staff were amazing and super friendly. You can tell they really love the animals and care about what they do
The jellyfish and science labs were very intriguing.
Lots of photo ops.
Really easy lay out to follow.
There are toilets.
Really good gift shop at the end.
We had a great time.
Really loved this place.
Interactive stuff for kids.
Lots of marine life to look at.
Pesto was top tier. Everyone got a chance to see him.
The staff were amazing and super friendly. You can tell they really love the animals and care about what they do
The jellyfish and science labs were very intriguing.
Lots of photo ops.
Really easy lay out to follow.
There are toilets.
Really good gift shop at the end.
We had a great time.
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Jasmine
03 Dec 2024
A great choice for the trip!! It's been a long time since I've been to the aquarium and this place is completely mesmerizing! The flora and fauna are very diverse, love all of them and especially the jellyfish! Absolutely stunning !! The other visitors were very polite and the staffs were extremely attentive and friendly. Will definitely be back!!
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Thi
30 Jul 2024
Great day out. Book in advance to save 20% we spent 3 hours there and the kids loved it. Loved the area when you walk in and you can touch the starfish and learn all about them. Also the parking deal for $22 all day is a steal.
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Nicole
28 Jul 2024
There are many different exhibitions and displays available at the aquarium. It is great for bringing family and children along. The animals that are at the aquarium are very diverse and very interesting, ranging from large crabs to octopuses. There is also a tunnel that is underwater, where people can see stingrays, sharks and many more other animals. Overall, the aquarium is a very nice experience. I will rate it a 7/10.
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Aarhaan
22 Jul 2024
It was an outstanding aquarium experience with lots of kids. The staff there were very attentive and explain everything . They are very knowledgeable. The most attractive event was penguin parade. It was heart touching. And the under water tunnel, you can see many fish there. Nice place to sit and watch the see life without knowing the time. At last nice gift shop .
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tisadesu
21 Jul 2024
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Pete
13 Jul 2024
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Penny
10 Jul 2024
2. Perfect setup for child predators to take children away, dark rooms, corridors, random slip-away doors, etc.
3. Animals are either not in the exhibit or if they’re there they look like they want to die especially the penguins, saddest looking penguins I’ve ever seen.
Overall a really sad experience, I feel evil knowing that I’ve paid good money on an experience for the entrapment of animals that are over-supervised by the thousands of visitors. I honestly feel like this place should be shut down.
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Marco
29 Jun 2024
A really nice place to see and learn small things about sea, i said small things because mankind don’t know much about sea actually (only discovered less then 20%) but Sea Life Melbourne Aquarium is quite a big place, it has lots of big aquariums )some really big ones) tropical rain forest, north pole. You can see lots of sea creatures from many kinds of fish, sea lions, sharks, sting rays, jelly fish, sea dragons, sea horses, etc., also exotic frogs, turtles and also big penguins.
Passing the admission desk, they will take a picture of you and you can download plenty of pictures provided free of charge.
To see all sections might take a half day, anyways, its a nice place to hangout with family or friends and enjoying some interesting creatures.
Passing the admission desk, they will take a picture of you and you can download plenty of pictures provided free of charge.
To see all sections might take a half day, anyways, its a nice place to hangout with family or friends and enjoying some interesting creatures.
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Zondy
21 Jun 2024
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Jody
07 Jun 2024
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Reviews247
03 Jun 2024
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Maria
30 May 2024
I have visited sea life for the first time with my partner on weekdays and it was worth visiting, it was an amazing experience to see so much of sea life and creatures from tiny to large creatures. Apart from seeing sea life there are tons of activities to do at this aquarium, it is best for people with kids, it will be an beautiful experience for children's.
Must visit place for everyone at least once.
Must visit place for everyone at least once.
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Dipen
12 Feb 2024
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Lucas
12 Feb 2024
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N4070BYrobertc
06 Feb 2024
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scubal0ver
29 Jan 2024
great aquarium! went here once before during the renovation— so it’s great to see that all the big fishes are back!
① the queues are a bit confusing, there’s no clear indication which queue is for which ticket. would be great if that’s established! ② while we didn’t go in with a pram— we felt like some of the spaces in the aquarium is too narrow for prams. we kept getting hit by prams because of how narrow the space is, and it took away the experience a little bit because we had to focus on not getting hit instead of looking at the sea creatures. would be great it the area is widen up or arranged in a way that parents & their children can freely walk with their prams. ③ also, we wonder if the water is murky or if it's the glass? can't really see the big fishes unless they're swimming close to the glass. ④ the layout of the aquarium can definitely be improved too— it's hard to navigate in some areas. we actually were walking at the cafe area in circles for a while because we couldn't find the next area.
it was still an enjoyable experience nevertheless! we hope that our next visit will be a more pleasant experience.
① the queues are a bit confusing, there’s no clear indication which queue is for which ticket. would be great if that’s established! ② while we didn’t go in with a pram— we felt like some of the spaces in the aquarium is too narrow for prams. we kept getting hit by prams because of how narrow the space is, and it took away the experience a little bit because we had to focus on not getting hit instead of looking at the sea creatures. would be great it the area is widen up or arranged in a way that parents & their children can freely walk with their prams. ③ also, we wonder if the water is murky or if it's the glass? can't really see the big fishes unless they're swimming close to the glass. ④ the layout of the aquarium can definitely be improved too— it's hard to navigate in some areas. we actually were walking at the cafe area in circles for a while because we couldn't find the next area.
it was still an enjoyable experience nevertheless! we hope that our next visit will be a more pleasant experience.
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v
28 Jan 2024
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chattsandy007
28 Jan 2024
I recently visited the aquarium with my family, and it was an outstanding experience! The diverse range of marine life showcased was breathtaking, and the interactive exhibits added an educational touch for both kids and adults. Penguin area was really fun for kids including 4D movie for kids too, crocodile area also added to the fun. The staff's knowledge and enthusiasm made the visit even more enjoyable. Clean facilities and well-maintained tanks added to the overall positive experience. Highly recommend for a family-friendly outing!
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Muhammad
20 Jan 2024
What an amazing experience for the whole family. Learned so much, the kids absolutely loved it. A must see for anybody living or visiting Melbourne.
So many gorgeous and rare animals. Will definitely visit again. Sharks were amazing and huge. The penguins were so playful. No boring exhibits and the staff are so helpful and friendly.
One of the best places I've been to.
So many gorgeous and rare animals. Will definitely visit again. Sharks were amazing and huge. The penguins were so playful. No boring exhibits and the staff are so helpful and friendly.
One of the best places I've been to.
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Pete
18 Jan 2024
Had the choice of a Fri afternoon or Saturday morning, either way it still would have been busy, but we waited for 30 minutes or so in line on the Saturday. Great for the kids, allow up to 2 hours to work your way through. If you have a stroller or pram please for the sake of others take advantage of the storage service the aquarium provides, because you'll be constantly dodging and weaving the families that don't. Be prepared to be patient with the crowds and the constant lines and milling of people in front of each exhibit. Kids had a fantastic time,glad we took them, just be prepared and pick your time
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Geordie
18 Jan 2024
Even as little as trying to get photos of your kids is impossible because there is so many other people. Everybody pushing and shoving to get into displays and peep holes. Not worth it, wouldn’t return
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TassieTiger23
10 Jan 2024
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Serena
04 Jan 2024
Amazing family friendly place, time well spent. In my personal opinion, Melbourne Sealife seems bit better than it's Sydney counterpart. 4D movie was awesome and educational for everyone (not only for kids).
But shark and penguin experience is better in Sydney ????
I suggest visitors to buy the yearly pass to maximize the monetary values.
But shark and penguin experience is better in Sydney ????
I suggest visitors to buy the yearly pass to maximize the monetary values.
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Foyzul
27 Dec 2023
My 15 year & 4 month old daughters loved the various displays and tank experiences at Sea Life Melbourne. We loved the jellyfish, the tropical animals floor and the café fish tank at feeding time! The penguins were a great way to wrap up the several hours of value. We knew that the main tank was not on full display, but we saw a manta ray dancing around one area and a shark moving around in the dark background. We will definitely be back to see the main tank in it's full glory.
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the
17 Dec 2023
first time visiting sea life in melbourne but i had an absolutely amazing time. great way to spend a few hours and see all the glorious animals. worth going on weekdays because you get a 20% discount. the happy feet 4d experience is worth it as well, as well as the penguin encounter. gift shop has a lot of awesome tidbits to buy on the way out. definitely gonna go to the aquarium again.
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Lachlan
29 Nov 2023
Great experience at the aquarium. Lots of fun and interesting stuff to see, especially the penguins and the jellyfish exhibits. A little manipulative with the price of the photo album at the end but it's a very popular tourist attraction and well worth a visit if you are just touring around Melbourne.
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Haohan
25 Nov 2023
The location of this place exactly in front of the tram stop, it should be easy to find. If you like aquarium, this place good enough to visit. They also have some of short sciences class for kids, that would be fun. The place you can see pinguin really that close
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Jeanniefer
25 Nov 2023
I visited here many years ago, and seemed to recall it was better.
The layout to me is too disjointed, on too many levels, and signage is not very clear. At one stage, you end up in the Café, but there is more to see, but its not clear.
I am sure I was comparing this aquarium to the one in Singapore the whole time I was there, having been to that one a few weeks back. But it wasn't just me, the whole group was doing the same.
Funnily enough prices at SeaLife are very reminiscent of Singapore too, high!
Maybe once the main area is back in operation it may improve the experience, but it won't make moving through any better.
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MelbourneTravelmad
19 Nov 2023
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Adrian
19 Nov 2023
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Peter
11 Nov 2023
This aquarium has a large variety of aquatic animals. Don't go during school holidays as it will be packed. We visited on a weekday and there was hardly anyone there.
Displays of note: underwater tunnel, jellyfish display, coral reef, penguin enclosure. I also particularly liked the gift shop.
Displays of note: underwater tunnel, jellyfish display, coral reef, penguin enclosure. I also particularly liked the gift shop.
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Alan
07 Nov 2023
I had lots of fun looking at all the different animals and sea creatures. My favourites would be the penguins, frogs, turtles, and jellyfish (so pretty to look at) and the little rays. It's very interactive and easy to find your way around. The 4D cinema was an interesting experience. Loved it!
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Iesha
05 Nov 2023
SEA LIFE Melbourne Aquarium is an absolute gem in the heart of the city, and I can't recommend it enough! My recent visit left me thoroughly impressed, and I would easily give it five stars.
The variety of animals on display is simply outstanding. From majestic sea turtles to mesmerising seahorses, and everything in between, the collection is both diverse and captivating. The attention to detail in creating enclosures that mimic the creatures' natural habitats is truly commendable. It adds an extra layer of authenticity to the experience, making you feel like you've embarked on a real underwater adventure.
One delightful surprise during my visit was the aquarium's café. Not only was it a great place to relax and recharge, but it also served some incredibly tasty food. When I found myself getting hungry, the menu offered a delightful selection that exceeded my expectations. It's not every day you can enjoy a delicious meal amidst such fantastic aquatic surroundings.
In summary, SEA LIFE Melbourne Aquarium is an exceptional destination for families, friends, or anyone looking for a memorable and educational experience. The wide variety of animals and their incredible enclosures, along with the scrumptious dining options, make it a must-visit attraction in Melbourne. Don't miss out on this aquatic adventure!
Five stars all the way!
The variety of animals on display is simply outstanding. From majestic sea turtles to mesmerising seahorses, and everything in between, the collection is both diverse and captivating. The attention to detail in creating enclosures that mimic the creatures' natural habitats is truly commendable. It adds an extra layer of authenticity to the experience, making you feel like you've embarked on a real underwater adventure.
One delightful surprise during my visit was the aquarium's café. Not only was it a great place to relax and recharge, but it also served some incredibly tasty food. When I found myself getting hungry, the menu offered a delightful selection that exceeded my expectations. It's not every day you can enjoy a delicious meal amidst such fantastic aquatic surroundings.
In summary, SEA LIFE Melbourne Aquarium is an exceptional destination for families, friends, or anyone looking for a memorable and educational experience. The wide variety of animals and their incredible enclosures, along with the scrumptious dining options, make it a must-visit attraction in Melbourne. Don't miss out on this aquatic adventure!
Five stars all the way!
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MK8
27 Oct 2023
Sea Life is a Southern Ocean and Antarctic aquarium. "a few aquariums". It has such incredible features. (various effort have been made) It is planned out until the end. The layout was easy to follow 15 theme. It was enjoyable and Staff were Great. ➀I find penguin lovely????. ➁jellyfish are pretty.????(you can take a peek into the jellyfish laboratory) ➂there are tons of sardines. ➃sea horse ➄octopus ➅shark???? ➆turtle???? etc. "Amazing place to visit"
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Shinichiro
18 Oct 2023
Very nice place to spend some hours for you or with family to see the underwater creatures. I loved watching Jelly Fish and the shark in the big aquarium. Penguins were also so cute.
Only thing is that I was expecting a much bigger place with lots of other variations, but enjoyed the day.
Only thing is that I was expecting a much bigger place with lots of other variations, but enjoyed the day.
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Robi
17 Oct 2023
My first time at the Sea Life, it was enjoyable and staff were great. The layout was easy to follow and attractions easy to view. There was something for all ages. Sadly the big tank was being worked on or renovated but still lots to see and do. We had lunch there and I must say very pricey for a family. We parked at Crown and had a very short stroll across the bridge. Favorite parts: Jelly Fish, Penguins (could watch them all day) Sea Horses and giant Crocodile.
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Joy
15 Oct 2023
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sealifemelbZ3917GH, Manager at SEA LIFE Melbourne Aquarium, responded to this review - 2023-10-17
Hi vivianmQ2530XN. Thanks so much for taking the time to leave us a review! We're thrilled that your group had a lovely day out! :)
Vivian
15 Oct 2023
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Safari60676584303
08 Oct 2023
























