Oceanarium's New Underwater Tunnel Now Open - Come and have a look!

Oceanarium Bournemouth Unveils Stunning New Look for its Popular Underwater Tunnel Attraction.

Oceanarium Bournemouth is delighted to announce the refurbishment of its popular exhibit – the Underwater Tunnel, has re-opened today (Thursday 04 December 2025) to visitors with a new design inspired by coral reefs and the sea shoreline.

The transformed tunnel will immerse visitors in a brand-new aquatic environment, featuring rocky landscapes, and a refreshed oceanic ambience that truly captures the feeling of walking beneath the waves. The entire area has been enlarged and modernised, offering a more spacious, and visually stunning experience for visitors of all ages. Visitors will also notice starfish, barnacles and other coastal details embedded into the rockwork to resemble a vibrant coral reef environment.  The entire floor has been resurfaced using epoxy resin, creating a smooth, modern finish that enhances the immersive underwater atmosphere.

Guests will once again be able to walk under and come face-to-face with some of the Oceanarium’s most popular residents, including blacktip reef sharks, a magnificent loggerhead turtle, moray eels, stingrays, and an array of exotic tropical fish. The tunnel’s new look provides even better views of these captivating creatures as they glide through their beautifully updated habitat.

“This refurbishment has been a really exciting project, especially as its one of our most popular displays” said Oliver Buttling, head of aquatics at Oceanarium Bournemouth. “Our aim was to enhance the magic of the Underwater Tunnel while creating a fresh, modern environment that showcases the incredible aquatic life that live there.”

The newly themed tunnel highlights the Oceanarium’s ongoing commitment to education, conservation, and inspiring a love for the ocean. It’s set to become an even more unmissable part of Bournemouth’s seafront experience.

For more information and updates, visit www.oceanarium.co.uk or follow @OceanariumBournemouth on social media.