An innovative idea from the Miami Seaquarium authorities

Listen to this article Ever since I can remember, while visiting various aquariums, oceanaria and other facilities introducing us to the fauna of the seas and oceans, I have always wanted to be on the other side of the glass. To this day, nothing has changed; the mysterious and unusual world of the water depths

ByMarcin Pawelczyk

Published: January 5, 2012 - 14:59

Updated: July 22, 2023 - 06:27

An innovative idea from the Miami Seaquarium authorities

Listen to this article

Ever since I can remember, while visiting various aquariums, oceanaria and other facilities introducing us to the fauna of the seas and oceans, I have always wanted to be on the other side of the glass. To this day, nothing has changed; the mysterious and unusual world of the water depths works like a magnet. It is precisely this attraction that the Miami Seaquarium has decided to exploit.

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Visitors to Florida will now have the opportunity to get even closer to sea creatures thanks to diving helmets! An underwater tour of a tank full of magnificent sea creatures costs about $99. Groups of 10 people spend 20-25min underwater. However, in order to be fully prepared for this trip and to enjoy it, you need to spend a total of more than 1 hour in preparation.

“The Underwater Walk, is not a mass approach-see-me-see-more attraction. Everyone wants something more and we are trying to provide that. Our goal is to bring people closer to the animals so they can experience the magnificence of the animals,” said Andrew Hertz, manager of the facility.

The Sea Trek Aquarium is a giant 300,000-gallon reef aquarium inhabited by exotic fish, crabs, eels, moray eels and stingrays. Visitors wear a helmet over their head and shoulders, with a hose connected to supply air. Additional equipment includes wetsuits, as the water can be chilly at times. Together with the guide we move on the bottom, which is at a depth of 6m. All communication is done as in diving, using signs.

“Not everyone is a certified diver and not everyone is brave enough to dive apnea, with us you don’t even need to know how to swim. However, it is useful to be able to equalize the pressure in your ears, as you will use it many times. It is also important to keep an upright position to maintain a full seal,” adds Hertz.

With virtually no diving skills, we are therefore able to experience something that has only been given to a few. Communing with the wonderful inhabitants of the deep has never been so accessible.

Although the economic crisis has affected everyone, the Seaquarium is gaining more visitors quarter by quarter, becoming a new local attraction and a lure for tourists visiting florida.

Source: miamiherald.com