Merlin Entertainments Group announces $10 million Sydney Aquarium refurbishment

Merlin Entertainments Group has announced a $10 million refurbishment plan for Sydney's famous harbour attraction, Sydney Aquarium.

In an comprehensive overhaul - the first since opening in 1988 - Merlin Entertainments Group, who acquired the attraction in March 2011, have released details of the construction and outfit plan, which will take the world-class aquarium to a whole new level.

In addition to an amazing new look, the revitalised attraction will fly the world famous SEA LIFE banner, globally recognised as the the world's leading aquarium brand, when it is completed and reopened as SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium in September 2012.

The refurbishment is already underway and when complete, the attraction will feature 14 newly-themed zones that will take guests on a journey of discovery, including an exciting new Shark Walk, a Tropical Bay of Rays habitat, an interactive Touch Pool, a Shipwreck area and a newly themed ocean walk-through.

It's not only its guests that SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium aims to delight, but its resident aquatic life, which under the guidance of leading experts in the field will be settled in to improved habitats; each one carefully designed and fitted to promote the marine animals' wellbeing.

Explaining the changes Merlin Divisional Director Edward Fuller states "as one of the leading tourist destinations in the country, the refurbishment of Sydney Aquarium will further enhance the attraction's world class reputation and will certainly cement its place on the global stage as a truly interactive and educational experience that is a must-see for visitors of all ages."

The Merlin Entertainments Group's owned and operated SEA LIFE brand is globally recognised as a centre of excellence for marine management, education, interactive exhibits and conservation, all of which will set the benchmark for some of the brand new activities, exhibits and exciting new areas set to open at SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium. The phase-like nature of the refurbishments will ensure minimum disruption is caused to guests, and not only will be accomplished without closing its doors to the public, but offer exciting opportunities for guests to preview developments and see Sydney Aquarium as they have never seen it before.

18th February 2012 - MERLIN CONFIRMS LIVING AND LEISURE AUSTRALIA TAKEOVER

16th August 2011 - WILD LIFE SYDNEY TO LAUNCH AT SYDNEY’S DARLING HARBOUR