Florida's Underwater World

The Florida Aquarium, Tampa

Together with Mote Aquarium, the Florida Aquarium in Tampa ranks among the top-tier underwater attractions. More than 10,000 animals and plants live here, beautifully staged and guaranteed to fascinate.

Visitors embark on an exciting journey following a water droplet from its underground spring to the sea. They travel through various ecosystems and their inhabitants – from swamps and marshes to beaches and bays, down into the deep, deep sea.

The realistic representation of different aquatic worlds, from streams to coral reefs, is a full sensory experience.

Highlights:

The iconic glass dome houses a complete wetland habitat with mangroves, cypress trees, and over 30 species of free-flying wading birds, while otters play in the water.
In the beach area, observe countless fish and birds in the surf – best during feeding time, a spectacle viewed through the glass wall.
The coral exhibit takes guests on a dive into deeper waters – the darker it gets, the more wondrous the forms and colors.
Highlight: A massive 14-meter-wide panorama window with live narration.
“Sea Hunt” educates on the weapons and hunting methods of underwater predators.
Several touch tanks and a large outdoor play and splash area for kids complete the experience.

Programs: Swim with the Sharks, Swim with the Fishes, Behind the Scenes Tour, Eco Tours boat rides

701 Channelside Drive, Tampa, phone 813–273–4000

Mote Aquarium, Sarasota

Mote began as a research institute 50 years ago and is now the official national shark research center of the U.S. Today, Mote is active in various marine research areas, but sharks remain its specialty.

The adjoining aquarium offers exciting marine science discovery – educational and entertaining for all ages.

Highlights:

Experience what it’s like to be a shark – at the “Shark Theater”.
“Molly the Mollusk” – a nine-meter-long giant squid, unique to Mote in the U.S.
Live giant fish like the Goliath grouper and tarpon swim alongside various sharks.
Touchable stingrays – soft and fascinating.
Hugh and Buffet – the only manatees in the world participating in research experiments.

Programs: Immersion Cinema, eco boat tours with Sarasota Bay Explorers

1600 Ken Thompson PKWY, Sarasota, phone 941-388-4441

SeaWorld, Orlando

SeaWorld offers more than just Shamu & Co. Larger marine animals like dolphins, manatees, sea lions, and penguins in naturalistic habitats are among the main attractions.

Highlights:

In the “Shark Encounter”, walk through a 20-meter glass tunnel surrounded by sharks, moray eels, barracudas, and other deep-sea creatures.
Brave guests: Cage dive with sharks, even without prior diving experience.

Programs: “Beluga Interaction Program” – meet the majestic white whales.

7007 SeaWorld DR, Orlando, phone 407-351-3600