Go beyond the exhibits at one of North America's finest aquariums with a private behind-the-scenes experience — feeding sharks, touching sea jellies, and standing backstage with marine biologists. Just minutes from the cruise terminal.
What to expect
A marine biologist escort takes you behind the public exhibits into the holding and treatment areas — places the general public never sees. You'll hand-feed a bamboo shark in Shark Lagoon, watch sea otter enrichment training up close, and get a briefing on Pacific conservation efforts straight from researchers. The main galleries — Blue Cavern, Tropical Pacific, the Honda Pacific Visions Theater — are yours to explore at leisure before or after. The whole experience is calming, inspiring, and genuinely educational.
Good to know
The aquarium is just 3 miles from the World Cruise Center — a 10-minute rideshare or taxi. No rental car needed. Behind-the-scenes slots are limited to small groups; book the add-on online well ahead. Open daily from 9 AM, making an early start easy.