SEA LIFE Melbourne Has Unveiled 'Night on the Reef', a New Multimillion-Dollar Journey Into the Ocean after Dark

Melbourne's SEA LIFE Aquarium is making a splash with its latest big-money investment. Introducing Night on the Reef, a new $9-million makeover transforming the 24-year-old oceanarium into a modern aquatic wonderland.

Taking 11 months to complete, this 2.2-million-litre, 360-degree experience sees visitors surrounded by a symphony of tropical fish, and come face to fin with sharks, rays and other aquatic beasts — all without getting their feet wet.

The exhibit isn't just pretty to look at. It's a living, breathing ecosystem mirroring the vibrancy and diversity of coral reefs globally. Marine educators will be on hand to give talks and answer questions, allowing opportunity for visitors young, old and everything in-between to learn a thing or two about humanity's underwater neighbours.

"We are beyond excited to bring a slice of the Great Barrier Reef to the heart of the city. Night on the Reef will not only captivate and amaze but also raise awareness about the importance of preserving precious marine ecosystems," says SEA LIFE Melbourne's General Manager Claire Burrell.

"This project embodies our commitment to conservation and our mission to inspire visitors to protect and cherish our oceans. We can't wait for everyone to experience our magnificent new oceanarium."

To celebrate the launch, SEA LIFE Melbourne will be putting on a free drone show from 9pm on Tuesday, January 16. The show is set to light up the sky above the Yarra, with sharks, rays and other ocean creatures zipping through the sky via an army of flying robots. What a time to be alive.

Find SEA LIFE Melbourne on the corner of Flinders Street and King Street, Melbourne, open from 9.30am–6pm daily.