While a wide range of men, women and children from all age groups and all over the world come through the doors of the Two Oceans Aquarium every day, our statistics show that the Aquarium is a particular hit with young women, millennials and mothers from all over Cape Town (and South Africa). We spoke to some frequent visitors to the Two Oceans Aquarium, all women between 21 and 40, to find out what they love about the place.
The Two Oceans Aquarium’s exhibits and interactive learning experiences are ideal for moms with curious kids, while the conservation and research projects are a magnet for those keen to learn more about the preservation of our sea and coastal life.
And, with an increasing public focus on eco-conscious living and the consequences of plastic pollution on our planet, many of the Aquarium’s visitors are conscious of the importance of living a low-waste, environmentally friendly life. Many are interested in volunteering for deserving organisations.
Repeat visitors
Kristen Peterssen, born and bred in Cape Town, says her first memory of the Aquarium is her visits around the ages of eight and 10. She says, “As a child, you could become a member and sleep over at the Aquarium. There was the opportunity to make lots of crafts, often teaching you about conservation.”
Good news! You can still do that, if you're a member. One of the perks of a Two Oceans Aquarium membership is the members-only sleepover, which takes place every few months.
Another avid visitor, Jessica Manim, explains that she finds it really calming to just sit and watch the sway of the exhibits. She had an annual pass before, and paid solo visits to the Two Oceans Aquarium every month. Many of our visitors just love being able to spend time watching marine creatures.
“I love ‘under-the-sea’ life, says Marguerite Engelbrecht, another local visitor. “I love the colours and the uniqueness of the marine animals, as well as the corals. The Little Mermaid is one of Marguerte's favourite movies, and she has had the opportunity to go on some holidays that involved snorkelling – all adding to the fascination. The Aquarium is a wonderful place to get your "fix" if you're a big-time sea-lover.
Convenient family fun
Another major reason why people enjoy coming to the Two Oceans Aquarium is the proximity of other fun attractions. Visitors love getting a bite to eat at our kiosks, or to browse local contemporary design at the Watershed next door. Since the Aquarium is a safe, family-friendly attraction with plenty of interesting exhibits, moms love the Two Oceans Aquarium!
Nabilah Rahman is a regular who has been to the Aquarium numerous times with her parents and with friends for a fun day out. “I’ve always enjoyed visiting the Aquarium – it’s such a tranquil place,” says Nabilah. “When I had my daughter, I took out a membership so she could enjoy it too, and she loves it.”
Exquisite events
The Two Oceans Aquarium also serves as a venue for a variety of functions throughout the year. “The most recent time I visited was for a party in July,” Marguerite says. “I really enjoy coming to the Aquarium for evening events. I’ve been to three so far, it’s such a good backdrop and adds an exciting element to an evening.”
Top sights
What are some of the best exhibits, according to our visitors?
“I’ve been many times, but now I go to see what’s new,” Kristen says, “ I love the shark walk under the glass tunnel of the Predator Exhibit. So cool.”
Nabilah loves visiting the “Nemo” clownfish display, watching the penguins being fed and taking her little one to the I&J Children’s Play Centre.
Jessica particularly enjoys the Predator Exhibit, while Marguerite enjoys visiting the colourful Jelly Gallery. (We have to agree – we love those too!)
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