After almost a year behind construction walls, SEA LIFE Scheveningen has officially reopened its doors following one of the largest refurbishment projects in the attraction’s history. The extensive modernisation has transformed both the visitor experience and the aquarium’s infrastructure, introducing new interactive exhibits, upgraded facilities and behind-the-scenes experiences while preparing the Dutch attraction for the years ahead.
The renovation marks a significant investment by Merlin Entertainments in one of its longest-running SEA LIFE attractions and reinforces the company’s commitment to keeping its aquarium portfolio up to date with evolving visitor expectations.
Nearly every part of the attraction has been renewed
The modernisation extended far beyond a cosmetic makeover. During the closure, the aquarium’s façade, technical infrastructure, visitor facilities and both indoor and outdoor areas were comprehensively renovated.
Because the attraction occupies a prominent position along Scheveningen’s busy seaside promenade, the project presented considerable logistical challenges. Before construction work could begin, hundreds of marine animals were carefully relocated to other SEA LIFE aquariums and specialist partner institutions to ensure their welfare throughout the refurbishment.
With the work now complete, the animals have returned to newly upgraded habitats designed to improve both animal care and the guest experience.
New interactive experiences
Visitors will discover several new experiences throughout the attraction.
One of the headline additions is SEA at Night, an immersive exhibit that demonstrates how life on a coral reef changes after sunset. Using interactive technology, lighting effects and multimedia, guests can explore how marine species adapt to the transition from day to night.
Another major addition is the Behind the Scenes Tour, giving visitors access to areas normally reserved for aquarists. During the guided experience, guests learn how the life support systems operate, how water quality is maintained and how the animal care team looks after hundreds of marine species every day.
The attraction has also introduced a new Virtual Reality experience, allowing visitors to dive into the underwater world alongside sharks, rays and other ocean animals through immersive 360-degree technology.
In addition, SEA LIFE Scheveningen has completely redeveloped its educational programme for schools, offering updated learning experiences that focus on marine conservation, biodiversity and environmental awareness.
A fresh chapter for a classic attraction
SEA LIFE Scheveningen first opened its doors in 1991 and has welcomed millions of visitors over the past three decades. Located on the boulevard of the popular Dutch seaside resort, it remains one of the country’s best-known aquariums and forms part of Merlin Entertainments’ global SEA LIFE network.
The attraction continues to feature its iconic ocean tunnel, themed habitats representing ecosystems from the Dutch North Sea to tropical coral reefs and the Amazon, as well as daily animal talks and feeding presentations.
Investing in the future
The reopening reflects a wider trend across the attractions industry, with operators increasingly choosing to modernise established destinations rather than replace them. By combining upgraded facilities with new digital and interactive experiences, SEA LIFE Scheveningen aims to appeal to both returning visitors and first-time guests.
Following the completion of the refurbishment, the aquarium is once again welcoming visitors, offering a refreshed experience that combines marine education, conservation and immersive storytelling in the heart of Scheveningen.
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