Oceanworld Manly: a myriad of marine life
Along the Manly Esplanade, next door to the ferry wharf and a few minutes walk from the beach, Oceanworld is one of the original icons of Manly. While it lacks the slick, state-of-the-art appeal of the more modern Sydney Aquarium across the harbour, Oceanworld nevertheless makes for a pleasant day’s outing combined with a swim, surf or stroll along picturesque Manly Beach.
One attraction unique to Oceanworld is the ‘Shark Dive Extreme’, a thrilling experience in which participants don SCUBA suits and take a daring dip into the Oceanworld shark tank. Here, on the other side of the glass, you’ll get personally acquainted with eight of the aquarium’s toothiest residents. The endangered grey nurse sharks of Oceanworld are certain to inspire awe with their enormous bulk and menacing snaggle-toothed grins. Sharing the five million litre (1.3 million gallon) oceanarium with them are wobbegong sharks, turtles and giant bull stingrays. Suitable for certified divers and first-timers alike (you’ll go through a safety and equipment briefing before you take the plunge), the shark dive is an experience like no other.
In fact, it’s more of a “moon walk” than a dive. There’s no swimming involved – you’ll find yourself wearing rubber boots and a heavy weight belt and bounding across the bottom of the tank – amusing and unusual for even the most experienced divers!
There’s still plenty to see for those who prefer to stay dry. While the walk-through shark tunnel is home to native Sydney species, the impressive Great Barrier Reef display houses hundreds of vivid tropical fish. There are also a number of smaller exhibits featuring miniature marine creatures and reptiles, and an interactive touch pool. If you’re lucky (school holidays are your best bet), you may even witness a rare visit from one of Oceanworld’s elusive mermaids!
HelloSydney Tip: Oceanworld Manly have introduced a Kids Snorkel Adventure, giving school aged kids a safe opportunity to meet the residents of the oceanarium with qualified dive instructors. Bookings are essential.
Posted by Fiona Davies
