The former Sea Life centre has been completely reimagined and expanded, promising an immersive visitor experience and will return this summer under a new name.
With cutting-edge exhibits and a strong focus on marine conservation and education, Marine Life Aquarium Bray will once again place Bray on the map as a top-tier family attraction.
This transformation marks a significant milestone for the town, with Marine Life predicted to potentially attract more than 125,000 visitors annually. As the only public aquarium on Ireland’s eastern seaboard, it will offer an essential hub for marine awareness and tourism along the coast.
Local business man Shane O’Farrell has joined forces with Dr Kevin Flannery, who has over 30 years’ experience running various aquariums in Ireland, including Ocean World in Dingle.
The project also brings a substantial boost to the local economy, with 20 jobs to be created across marine biology, guest services, operations, education, and hospitality.
“This is a landmark project for Bray and the east coast,” said Shane O’Farrell. “Our goal with Marine Life is to build a modern, interactive aquarium that inspires all ages and strengthens Bray’s position as a leading destination. This investment reflects our long-term commitment to the town and its future.”
Commenting on the news, Social Democrats TD for Wicklow, Jennifer Whitmore, said the re-opening is sure to bring a wave of excitement to Bray residents.
“I am absolutely delighted with the news that an aquarium is going into the former Sea Life building in Bray. Kevin, Shane, and the team are very experienced not just in running aquariums but also in marine conservation, and I am sure that the new aquarium, which will be named Marine Life Aquarium Bray, will prove an excellent resource to the town,” Deputy Whitmore said.
“The closure of Sea Life two years ago was a significant blow to Bray, impacting not only tourism but also the vibrancy of the promenade. I myself also have a background in marine biology and was therefore really disappointed by the 2023 closure. I reached out to multiple other aquariums at the time to see if they would take over this site,” Deputy Whitmore explained. “Needless to say, I am delighted to see that one of those people I spoke to in 2023 has decided to take up operations in the building.
“I know that the new operators are keen for Marine Life Aquarium Bray to be an educational facility, which will be a fabulous fit to the East Coast, given our rich history of maritime activity. From my marine biology background, I know that sites like this are so important for budding marine biologists. I am really looking forward to working with the new operators to make this venture as successful as possible,” Deputy Whitmore continued.
“Ever since Sea Life closed its doors in 2023, I’ve been holding out hope that an alternative provider would be found to reinstate this vital resource. Marine Life Aquarium Bray promises to be a significant addition to the local area, serving as an educational space for our youth and a destination for your tourism,” she concluded.
Marine Life will officially open its doors in summer 2025, with a date to be confirmed.
#Shock #comeback #Brays #aquarium #set #reopen #creating #jobs
