The Maritime Aquarium at Norwalk presents sharks, seals, river otters, sea turtles, jellyfish and more than 350 other species from Long Island Sound and its watershed.
February features "Just Add Water" exhibit and Seal-spotting and Birding Cruises, and more! Check out what's happening below:
Three staffed touch tanks allow hands-on close encounters with intertidal animals, sharks and rays, and moon jellyfish. “Just Add Water” exhibit features tamarins, a porcupine, skunk, quail and more. Additional offerings include memorable movies in a new 4D theater, in-person and streaming educational programs for schools and families, and public cruises onto the Sound aboard the unique hybrid-electric research vessel, R/V Spirit of the Sound.
Journey out onto Long Island Sound in hopes of seeing some of the seals and waterfowl that spend the winter just off our shores during The Maritime Aquarium’s new season of Seal-Spotting & Birding Cruises.
These invigorating two-hour cruises seek out some of the harbor seals and gray seals that come into the Sound each winter. Aquarium educators will point out these federally protected marine mammals and talk about their natural histories. They’ll also help identify such winter waterfowl as buffleheads, mergansers and long-tailed ducks.
Dates and departure times vary by low tide. Dates in February 2023 are:
Sunday, Feb. 12 at 9 a.m.
Saturday, Feb. 18 at 3 p.m.
Saturday, Feb. 25 at 9 a.m.
Sunday, Feb. 26 at 9:30 a.m.
The Aquarium’s unique hybrid-electric research vessel RV Spirit of the Sound has a climate-controlled cabin but, because the best viewing is outside on deck, participants should dress for the weather.
The cruises offer memorable family fun but note that all passengers must be at least 42 inches tall. Guests under 18 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.
Tickets for a Seal-Spotting & Birding Cruise are $36, or $32 for Aquarium members. Space is limited so advance reservations are strongly recommended. Walk-up tickets will be sold, space permitting.
A limited number of binoculars will be available, or participants are welcome to bring their own.
Masks may be required of all participants. To check the latest COVID requirements for the boat, to reserve tickets, see the full cruise schedule or learn more, call (203) 852-0700, ext. 2206, or go to www.maritimeaquarium.org.
AQUARIUM HOURS:
10 a.m. – 5 p.m. daily.
ADMISSION PRICES:
• Aquarium only: $29.95 adults; $25.95 seniors (65+); $20.95 children (3-12).
• Add a 4D movie: $7 per person ($6 for members).
FOR MORE INFORMATION:
Call (203) 852-0700 or go online to www.maritimeaquarium.org.