The Sea Aquarium Singapore, also known as the S.E.A. Aquarium, is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Singapore, attracting millions of visitors every year. Located within the Resorts World Sentosa complex, the aquarium is home to over 100,000 marine animals from around the world, including sharks, stingrays, and colorful fish of all shapes and sizes. But have you ever wondered when the S.E.A. Aquarium first opened its doors to the public?
In this article, we’ll take a journey through time to explore the history of the S.E.A. Aquarium, from its conception to its grand opening. We’ll also delve into the various exhibits and features that make this aquarium a must-visit destination for anyone interested in marine life.
A Brief History of the S.E.A. Aquarium
The idea of building an aquarium in Singapore dates back to the early 2000s, when the government launched a initiative to develop the Sentosa Island into a world-class tourist destination. In 2006, the Resorts World Sentosa (RWS) consortium was awarded the contract to develop the island, and the construction of the S.E.A. Aquarium began in 2008.
The aquarium was designed by the American firm, Reynolds, Smith & Hills, and was built at a cost of over S$200 million. The construction process was a complex one, involving the design and installation of over 40,000 acrylic panels, as well as the creation of a state-of-the-art life support system.
The Grand Opening
The S.E.A. Aquarium officially opened its doors to the public on March 22, 2012. The grand opening was attended by numerous dignitaries, including the Prime Minister of Singapore, Lee Hsien Loong, and the Minister for Trade and Industry, Lim Hng Kiang.
The aquarium was initially open from 10am to 7pm, with ticket prices ranging from S$29 to S$49 for adults and S$19 to S$39 for children. The aquarium was an instant hit, attracting over 1.5 million visitors in its first year of operation.
Exhibits and Features
The S.E.A. Aquarium is home to over 100,000 marine animals from around the world, including sharks, stingrays, and colorful fish of all shapes and sizes. The aquarium is divided into several exhibits, each showcasing a different aspect of marine life. (See Also: What Plants Are Good for Aquarium? Perfect Picks)
The “Open Ocean” exhibit is one of the most popular, featuring a 36-meter-long acrylic tunnel that allows visitors to walk through and get up close and personal with the marine animals. The “Rainforest” exhibit is another highlight, featuring a lush, tropical environment with a variety of fish and other animals.
The aquarium also features several interactive exhibits, including a “Touch Pool” where visitors can get hands-on experience with marine animals, and a “Sea Encounter” exhibit where visitors can learn about the importance of marine conservation.
Conservation Efforts
The S.E.A. Aquarium is not just a tourist attraction, but also a center for marine conservation. The aquarium is involved in several conservation efforts, including the rescue and rehabilitation of marine animals, and the promotion of sustainable fishing practices.
The aquarium is also home to a team of marine biologists and veterinarians who work to advance our understanding of marine life and develop new conservation strategies. The aquarium also partners with other organizations to support conservation efforts around the world.
Accolades and Awards
The S.E.A. Aquarium has received numerous accolades and awards since its opening. In 2012, the aquarium was awarded the “Best New Attraction” award by the Singapore Tourism Board. In 2013, the aquarium was awarded the “Best Aquarium” award by the World Association of Zoos and Aquariums.
The aquarium has also received several awards for its conservation efforts, including the “Conservation Award” from the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) in 2014. (See Also: London Aquarium How Long Does it Take? Insider’s Guide)
Conclusion
The S.E.A. Aquarium is a world-class attraction that offers visitors a unique and educational experience. From its grand opening in 2012 to its current status as one of the most popular tourist attractions in Singapore, the aquarium has come a long way.
In this article, we’ve explored the history of the S.E.A. Aquarium, from its conception to its grand opening. We’ve also delved into the various exhibits and features that make this aquarium a must-visit destination for anyone interested in marine life.
We hope that this article has provided you with a better understanding of the S.E.A. Aquarium and its importance in the world of marine conservation. Whether you’re a marine enthusiast or just looking for a fun and educational experience, the S.E.A. Aquarium is definitely worth a visit.
Recap
Here’s a recap of what we’ve discussed:
- The S.E.A. Aquarium opened its doors to the public on March 22, 2012.
- The aquarium is home to over 100,000 marine animals from around the world.
- The aquarium is divided into several exhibits, including the “Open Ocean” and “Rainforest” exhibits.
- The aquarium is involved in several conservation efforts, including the rescue and rehabilitation of marine animals.
- The aquarium has received numerous accolades and awards since its opening.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the S.E.A. Aquarium?
The S.E.A. Aquarium is a world-class aquarium located within the Resorts World Sentosa complex in Singapore. It is home to over 100,000 marine animals from around the world.
Q: When did the S.E.A. Aquarium open?
The S.E.A. Aquarium opened its doors to the public on March 22, 2012. (See Also: How Much Time Needed for Georgia Aquarium? Plan Your Visit)
Q: What exhibits can I see at the S.E.A. Aquarium?
The S.E.A. Aquarium features several exhibits, including the “Open Ocean” and “Rainforest” exhibits. Visitors can also explore the “Touch Pool” and “Sea Encounter” exhibits.
Q: Is the S.E.A. Aquarium involved in conservation efforts?
Yes, the S.E.A. Aquarium is involved in several conservation efforts, including the rescue and rehabilitation of marine animals and the promotion of sustainable fishing practices.
Q: Has the S.E.A. Aquarium received any awards?
Yes, the S.E.A. Aquarium has received numerous accolades and awards since its opening, including the “Best New Attraction” award and the “Best Aquarium” award.