What is the National Marine Aquarium?
The National Marine Aquarium is the charity dedicated to raising awareness of our oceans, the life they contain and the way, we as human beings affect them. The Aquarium Visitor Centre, situated on the Barbican in Plymouth, Devon is Britain’s Biggest Aquarium and the first in the UK to be set up solely for the purposes of education, conservation and Research.

What animals do you have at the National Marine Aquarium?
There are over 4,000 marine fish in the aquarium, of almost 400 different species, as well as many thousands of invertebrate animals and one loggerhead turtle. A large proportion of the animals are from our local waters showing the marvellous diversity from soft corals to tiny gobies and fascinating prawns to 2.5 metre conger eels. The aquarium also displays, when possible, other interesting creatures found in the seas around the south west such as sea hares, seahorses and octopus. There are also animals from the Mediterranean and the warmer seas of the world. A colourful array of fish swims above tropical corals, starfish, sea cucumbers and crabs. These include clownfish, damsels, cardinals, seahorses and jacks. Our sharks come from Britain, the Caribbean and Indian Ocean, ranging from the tiny coral shark and shy epaulette shark to the large Sand Tiger Sharks.

Where do you get the animals from?
Some of our animals are brought in by fishermen or members of the public (but we do ask people to telephone us first to check that we can take them); others are collected by our dedicated team of aquarists; but most are purchased from reputable suppliers. The aquarium has a strict conservation policy and operates along the guidelines of the Marine Aquarium Council and will only use suppliers who follow similar guidelines.

How do I get there?
The Aquarium is signposted from all major routes into the city and from the city centre, but the recommended route is A38, taking the Marsh Mills (Sainsbury’s) turn off. Follow the fish symbols on the brown tourist signs to the National Marine Aquarium and Coxside Car Park. If you have SAT NAV the postcode is PL4 0LF Click here for full directions »

Where Should I Park?
We have a limited number of disabled parking bays, these are available on a first come first served basis, to those displaying a valid disabled badge. There is no other parking available at the National Marine Aquarium, please use either the Coxside or Lockyers Quay pay & display car parks, adjacent to the site. The cost for 3 hours is £3.60

How Long Should I allow for my visit?
We recommend a minimum of three hours for your visit, but you may need longer if you wish to listen to some of the talks that happen throughout the day. Not to be missed are the dive shows, these usually happen once a day but please check on the day of your visit.

Can I book tickets in advance?
Yes. Please use our online booking service to purchase advance tickets.

I’m coming with a group – Can I get a discount?
Yes. Groups of ten or more can take advantage of our special group booking rates. Use our online service or call 01752 275238.

We’ve been before, Have you got anything new?
The National Marine Aquarium is constantly evolving to meet the needs of the changing Marine Environment and as such things change here quite often. Sometimes these changes are big; for example Shallows Zone opened in 2007 and Ocean Drifters opened in 2009. Sometimes these changes are small, such as the introduction of new creatures to our exhibits. However, with over 4000 marine creatures every visit to the National Marine Aquarium will offer an opportunity to see something new. Why not become a member and get unlimited return visits?

Why is the National Marine Aquarium a charity?
The National Marine Aquarium is a charity as it was set up primarily for the purposes of education, conservation and research. As a charity, we do not pay any dividends to shareholders or take any profits. Every penny we receive helps us to continue to operate, to fund our innovative learning programme, to participate in international conservation efforts and to support vital research, helping us to succeed in our mission: To inspire everyone to enjoy, learn and care about our oceans through amazing, memorable experiences.

I’ve got young children, what facilities do you provide?
We have several exciting areas throughout the Aquarium, designed specifically, let them explore the cavern of colour in the Coral Seas or see Sharks in the Mermaids Cave. We also have a brand new Soft Play area, opened in December 2007. Better still all children under five go free. If you have very small children, the Aquarium is fully accessible for Pushchairs with most exhibits served by ramps and lifts where there are stairs. Nursing Mothers are welcome throughout the building; however, should you require privacy, please speak to one of our hosts who can arrange for this.

What facilities do you provide for disabled people?
The National Marine Aquarium is committed to providing Access for All. The majority of the aquarium is serviced by walkways, however, lifts are supplied where there are stairs. There are a number of disabled parking bays on site and there are drop off points for minibuses and coaches. We have a limited number of wheelchairs on site available free of charge on a first come first served basis and there are full disabled toilet facilities. Carers for the disabled are admitted free of charge (1 per person) and guide dogs are welcome.

Can I get something to eat?
Yes. Stop in at the Waves Café any time of day for a hot drink, a light snack or a full meal. It’s the ideal opportunity to take a break and recharge your batteries. Children are catered for and welcomed, and our café staff will be pleased to help you with any special requirements. Alternatively, visit our Horizons Coffee Bar where you will find great coffee, hot and cold drinks and light snacks. This café can be used without playing an admission fee to the aquarium. Sands café, our alfresco café on the plaza opens for early birds from 9.00am from March to October. For visitors who wish to bring their own food, our Maritime Garden overlooking Plymouth Sound is furnished with numerous picnic tables and there is plenty of space for children to let off steam.