Aquarium
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Blue Reef Aquarium Portsmouth

3.7
·3k reviews·Portsmouth, United Kingdom

Discover vibrant marine life, from tropical fish to sharks, in an immersive underwater tunnel. A compact yet engaging aquarium experience.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more relaxed

CrowdLow
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Aquarium

Blue Reef Aquarium Portsmouth

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more relaxed

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Discover vibrant marine life, from tropical fish to sharks, in an immersive underwater tunnel. A compact yet engaging aquarium experience.

3.7
(3k reviews)

"The most healthy aquarium I’ve seen in a while! The fish were very good and the whole space was easy to navigate."

Vertical photo
TIP

Re-entry is allowed! 🚶‍♀️

Get a stamp on your ticket to leave and re-enter the aquarium anytime during the day. Perfect for a break or exploring nearby attractions.

Check feeding times 🐠

The stingray feed is a highlight! Plan your visit around scheduled feeding times for an engaging experience.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Underwater Viewing Tunnel

Underwater Viewing Tunnel

Main Ocean Display

Walk amongst sharks and rays in this immersive tunnel, offering a unique perspective on marine life.

Stingray Feed and Talk

Stingray Feed and Talk

Ocean Display

Witness the fascinating feeding ritual and learn interesting facts from knowledgeable staff.

Tropical Species Displays

Tropical Species Displays

Various Tanks

Explore vibrant tanks filled with colorful tropical fish, seahorses, and other fascinating aquatic creatures.

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Planning Your Visit

Timing is Key for a Relaxing Visit

While some find Blue Reef Aquarium Portsmouth a bit small, visiting during off-peak hours can enhance the experience. Weekday mornings or late afternoons are often less crowded, allowing for a more leisurely exploration of the marine life. Consider the ferry crossing from Gosport, which is a pleasant journey but adds travel time.

Manage Expectations for a Better Experience

Some visitors find the aquarium smaller than anticipated, with limited variety. However, others praise its health and maintenance. Going in with an open mind, especially if traveling with young children, can lead to a more enjoyable visit. The stingray feed is often highlighted as a good activity.

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, more relaxed
Crowd
Low
When
Late afternoons
Why
Tour groups thin out
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

reddit.com

Things to do with a baby

Re-entry is allowed! 🚶‍♀️

Get a stamp on your ticket to leave and re-enter the aquarium anytime during the day. Perfect for a break or exploring nearby attractions. Reddit

Check feeding times 🐠

The stingray feed is a highlight! Plan your visit around scheduled feeding times for an engaging experience. Reddit

reddit.com

Things to do in Southsea?

Baby-friendly outing 👶

Suitable for very young children, offering a calm environment for a short outing. Consider the ferry from Gosport. Reddit

Outdoor play area 🤸

There's a basic play area out back, though some find it uninviting. It can be a good spot for kids to burn off energy. Reddit

Tips

from all over the internet

Re-entry is allowed! 🚶‍♀️

Get a stamp on your ticket to leave and re-enter the aquarium anytime during the day. Perfect for a break or exploring nearby attractions. Reddit

Check feeding times 🐠

The stingray feed is a highlight! Plan your visit around scheduled feeding times for an engaging experience. Reddit

Baby-friendly outing 👶

Suitable for very young children, offering a calm environment for a short outing. Consider the ferry from Gosport. Reddit

Outdoor play area 🤸

There's a basic play area out back, though some find it uninviting. It can be a good spot for kids to burn off energy. Reddit

What Travellers Say

3.7
(3k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Blue Reef Aquarium Portsmouth offers a generally well-maintained collection of marine life, with highlights like the underwater tunnel and stingray feed. While some visitors find it smaller than expected and lacking in interactive elements, others appreciate its peaceful atmosphere and healthy exhibits. The ability to re-enter throughout the day is a significant plus for visitors.

"The most healthy aquarium I’ve seen in a while! The fish were very good and the whole space was easy to navigate. You can leave and enter at any time after buying a ticket, and there’s a cool gift shop at the end.

As a fish enjoyer this was such a great experience, I recommend it."

Sparrow

"Really had a great time! Go in with an open mind as most of these reviews are negative but myself, partner, 7 year old and 8 month old had so much fun! They would of course benefit from selling ice lollies and drinks on hot days. The lady who done the 11am talk and feed in the tunnel was brilliant very informative and knew what she was talking about."

Ashleigh

"Superb, if you're in the area a visit is a must. You get a stamp so you can go in and out all day! A good play area out the back and a great selection of well presented marine life awaits.. fabulous."

John Dixon

What People Like

Healthy fish and well-maintained tanks
Underwater viewing tunnel
Informative stingray feed

What People Dislike

Smaller than expected size
Limited variety of species
Basic outdoor play area

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

You can easily reach the Blue Reef Aquarium Portsmouth from Gosport by taking the Gosport Ferry. The aquarium is a short walk from the ferry terminal. Reddit

While specific parking details aren't widely shared, being near the ferry terminal suggests potential parking options in the Portsmouth city center. It's advisable to check local parking apps or websites for the most up-to-date information.

Yes, the aquarium is accessible without a car, especially if you're coming from Gosport via the ferry. Public transport options in Portsmouth are generally good. Reddit

Opening hours can vary seasonally. It's best to check the official Blue Reef Aquarium Portsmouth website for the most current opening times before your visit.

Yes, the aquarium is considered a good outing for babies due to its calm environment and manageable size. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Ticket prices can vary, and it's recommended to check the official Blue Reef Aquarium Portsmouth website for current admission fees. Some reviews mention a price of around £60 for a family, though this may be an older price or include extras. Reddit

Absolutely! You can get a stamp on your ticket to leave and re-enter the aquarium at any time during the day, which is a great perk. Reddit

Information on discounts isn't readily available in reviews. It's advisable to check the aquarium's official website or inquire directly about potential discounts for groups, seniors, or children.

While not always mandatory, booking tickets in advance online can sometimes save time and guarantee entry, especially during peak seasons or holidays. Check the aquarium's website for their booking policy.

Some visitors report completing the entire aquarium in as little as 39 minutes, including a stingray feed. Others suggest it can be a more relaxed experience if you take your time. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

You can see a variety of marine life including local fish, sharks, rays, tropical species, seahorses, starfish, and lobsters. Reddit

Yes, there is a popular underwater viewing tunnel where you can walk amongst sharks and rays, offering an immersive experience. Reddit

Some visitors feel there's a lack of interactive activities for younger children, with more emphasis on fact posts. However, the stingray feed is an engaging event. Reddit

There is an outdoor play area, but reviews suggest it's basic and can appear unkempt, with minimal activities. Reddit

Generally, the aquarium is described as nicely maintained with healthy fish, though some older reviews suggest a decline over the years. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

There is a cafe located outside the aquarium. This means you cannot easily access it for a coffee break while inside with children. Reddit

Information on bringing outside food is not explicitly stated in reviews. It's best to check the aquarium's policy or plan to purchase from the external cafe. Reddit

Given its location, there are likely various dining options available in the Portsmouth city center, a short walk from the aquarium. Reddit

Some visitors noted that the aquarium would benefit from selling ice lollies and drinks, especially on hot days, suggesting this is not currently a prominent offering. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Photography is generally allowed inside aquariums, but it's always a good idea to check for any specific restrictions. Be mindful of flash photography, as it can disturb the marine life.

The underwater viewing tunnel offers unique photo opportunities with sharks and rays. The tropical fish tanks also provide colorful backdrops. Reddit

While not explicitly mentioned, avoid using flash photography, especially in darker areas or when photographing sensitive species, to protect the animals. Reddit

Yes, the stingray feed is a popular event for photos and videos. The staff member conducting the feed is often informative and engaging. Reddit

Low-light settings will be beneficial, especially in the tunnel. Consider a camera with good low-light performance or a fast lens. Avoid using flash if possible. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Young Children

Blue Reef Aquarium Portsmouth can be a good option for a short outing with babies and toddlers. The calm atmosphere and the chance to see fish are appealing. Reddit While interactive elements might be limited, the stingray feed is a definite highlight. Be prepared for the cafe being outside the main attraction, so pack snacks or plan your meal accordingly. Reddit The outdoor play area offers a space for kids to run around, though its condition is noted as basic. Consider visiting on a weekday to avoid larger crowds.

🚶‍♀️ Solo Travelers & Couples

If you're looking for a quiet and relaxed experience, Blue Reef Aquarium Portsmouth can be ideal. The aquarium is generally not crowded during off-peak hours, allowing for a peaceful observation of marine life. Reddit The underwater tunnel provides a unique perspective, and the informative talks can be engaging. The ability to leave and re-enter means you can easily combine a visit with exploring other nearby attractions in Portsmouth. Reddit

👶 Travelers with Babies

The aquarium is well-suited for outings with very young children. The environment is calm, and the visual stimulation of the fish can be captivating for babies. Reddit The manageable size means you won't be overwhelmed with a stroller. Remember that the cafe is external, so plan for feeding or changing needs accordingly. The ferry trip from Gosport is also a pleasant addition to the outing. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Navigating the Aquarium with Young Children

Blue Reef Aquarium Portsmouth can be a suitable outing for families with young children, including babies. The calm environment and manageable size make it less overwhelming than larger attractions. While some visitors feel there's a lack of interactive exhibits for toddlers and preschoolers, the stingray feed is often a highlight that captures their attention. Reddit The outdoor play area, though basic, can offer a space for kids to release energy. However, parents should be aware that the cafe is located outside the main aquarium, limiting easy access for snacks or drinks during the visit. Reddit

Consider visiting during quieter times, like weekday mornings, to make the experience more enjoyable for little ones. The ability to leave and re-enter with a stamp is also a plus, allowing for flexibility if a child needs a break or if you want to combine the visit with a stroll along the waterfront. Reddit

Understanding Visitor Feedback: A Balanced View

Reviews for Blue Reef Aquarium Portsmouth are mixed, with some visitors finding it 'dire' and 'depressing' compared to past experiences, while others praise its health and maintenance. Reddit A common point of contention is the perceived size and variety of the exhibits, with some feeling it's too small and offers less variety than an aquatic shop. Reddit This sentiment is particularly strong for those expecting a full day's entertainment.

On the positive side, many appreciate the health of the fish, the cleanliness of the space, and the informative talks, especially the stingray feed. Reddit The underwater tunnel is consistently mentioned as a highlight. The ability to leave and re-enter with a stamp is also a well-received feature. For those looking for a short, relaxed visit focused on marine life, it can be a good option, especially if traveling with very young children or seeking a quiet experience. Reddit

Accessibility and Ferry Travel

For visitors traveling from Gosport, the Gosport Ferry provides a convenient and scenic route to Portsmouth. The ferry terminal is typically within walking distance of the aquarium, making it an accessible option for those without a car. Reddit Reviews suggest that the aquarium itself is generally easy to navigate. One visitor mentioned receiving assistance with their wheelchair, indicating a level of helpfulness from staff, though experiences can vary. Reddit

It's worth noting that while the aquarium is navigable, the external cafe location might present a slight inconvenience for those needing constant access to refreshments or a place to sit with children. Planning your visit with these factors in mind can help ensure a smoother experience. Reddit

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