Exploris Aquarium

In the shores of Strangford Lough in the picturesque town of Portaferry, Exploris Aquarium is Northern Ireland’s only public aquarium, and the region’s sole seal rescue and rehabilitation center. Since its founding in 1989, Exploris has become a lifeline for over 600 sick, injured, or orphaned seal pups, primarily harbor seals (Phoca vitulina), whose populations have faced mounting pressures from pollution, entanglement, and habitat loss.

The facility operates year-round, with a dedicated team of animal care specialists who oversee every stage of the rehabilitation process, from initial rescue and medical treatment to rewilding and release. Seals are housed in purpose-built pools that allow for physical recovery and behavioral conditioning, ensuring they regain strength and retain their natural instincts before returning to the wild.

Exploris is also a center for marine education and conservation outreach. Visitors can explore immersive exhibits showcasing both native and tropical marine ecosystems, including coral reefs, kelp forests, and deep-sea habitats. Interactive displays and guided tours highlight the ecological role of seals as apex predators and sentinels of ocean health.

Supported by local councils and the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (DAERA), Exploris also hosts seasonal events, school programs, and citizen science initiatives aimed at fostering environmental stewardship across generations. Its seal rescue work is complemented by public awareness campaigns and partnerships with coastal communities to promote sustainable practices and marine biodiversity protection.