Opened in 1995, the Two Oceans Aquarium has proved to be one of the most popular destinations on a visit to Cape Town. The aquarium is located alongside the V & A Waterfront marina and showcases aquatic life found along this section of the South African coastline that spans both the Indian and Atlantic Oceans. Thousands of sea creatures are on view, ranging from tiny seahorses to large predators. The aquarium is also a working research and conservation centre where important work is conducted to ensure the sustainability of our planet’s sea life.

Glass displays are tastefully designed with coloured lighting to provide a sensation of being deep underwater. The ‘Finding Nemo’ (clownfish) tank allows children to stand in the centre of the glass display, a popular photo shot for the family album.

The cuddly penguins are fed twice daily at 11h30 and again at 14h30 and members of the public are giving an opportunity to get up close with the rockhopper penguin when purchasing a Pengiun Encounter ticket. The extra fees go towards a penguin conservation fund.

The aquarium recently tagged and released their sharks while the predator exhibition area is renovated. Once complete and re-stocked with predators, the option to dive with the sharks and twice daily feeding is set to resume.

Some of the interesting events offered by aquarium staff include catering and hosting of children’s parties, weddings, Valentine’s Day dinners and sleepovers for families to enjoy the aquarium at night.

The aquarium’s onsite restaurant overlooks the marina where luxury yachts are berthed and Cape fur seals sun themselves on the wooden decks. A small snack bar is located alongside the large ocean exhibit.

The Two Oceans Aquarium is on the hop on-hop off bus route and for those arriving by motor vehicle there is ample parking. It’s also within a few metres of the V & A Waterfront.