Major revamp for Melbourne Aquarium
Merlin Entertainments is planning a major refurbishment of the Melbourne Aquarium.
The company will spend AU$8 million (US$8.2m) on the five month renovation of the aquarium, which will see it relaunched under Merlin’s Sea Life brand.
The company acquired Melbourne Aquarium in 2012, adding to its portfolio of attractions in Australia, which also includes Sydney Aquarium.
Upon reopening in September 2013, the new Sea Life Melbourne Aquarium will feature 12 new zones with hundreds of new species, including the world’s largest collection of seahorses. It will join 44 other Sea Life centres around the world.
“As one of the most iconic tourist destinations in Australia, we are delighted to be able to further enhance the attraction’s world class reputation and continue to grow its global marine conservations efforts while providing a truly interactive and educational experience for visitors,” said Edward Fuller, Merlin’s Divisional Director.
The refurbishment, which is already underway, will be undertaken in a phased manner, with the attraction expected to remain open throughout.