Having opened its doors to the public in 1991, Underwater World in Sentosa Island, Singapore is one of the Lion City’s most engaging tourist attractions. As a world class oceanarium of truly mammoth proportions the largely underground facility houses more than 2,500 marine creatures from 250 varied species. Owned and managed by the Haw Par Corporation, the venue simultaneously serves as an educational as well as an entertainment highlight in Singapore’s tourist landscape while undertaking several programs to further the public’s knowledge on marine matters. The projects include setting up of the Coral Club and the Living in the Ocean Programme while the Ocean Ambassador Programme has also been a successful endeavour.
Sprawled across 69 acres one of the chief attractions at Underwater World includes its 272 foot long travelator which takes guests across a glass tunnel which is submerged in 6mm of water and features acrylic windows that allow visitors to observe a variety of marine creatures. Offering guests a panoramic view of marine species, the tunnel creates an atmosphere where sharks and stingrays swim overhead while turtles and moray eels meander parallel to the visitors. Marine Discovery is an equally engaging point of interest, while the Dolphin Lagoon with its regular shows and quirky inhabitants which includes pink dolphins or Indo-Pacific Humpback Dolphins is a favourite among young visitors.
Swim with the Dolphins is undoubtedly one of the venue’s most popular stopovers. Allowing visitors to have one on one time with the friendliest faces in the ocean the Swim With the Dolphins hour long interactive program affords a once in a lifetime opportunity for most. Offering expert knowhow on behavioural patterns and facts regarding these magnificent creatures the encounter gets visitors up close and personal with rare pink dolphins and engage in a playful demonstration aided by trainers.
The Dive with the Sharks encounter however is not for the faint of heart as the 30 minute face time with one of the world’s most dangerous marine species is mind blowing to say the least! Travellers who are not certified scuba divers can also take part in this submerged experience if they dare.
Other points of interest include the Fish Reflexology spa, a stingray feeding hub and a showcase of tiny reef-dwelling species.
Travellers on the lookout for top-notch Singapore hotel accommodation should look no further than Studio M Hotel Singapore for reservations. Ideally located in a strategic location this Singapore hotel pulls out all the stops when it comes to unforgettable vacations in the Lion City.
Chandrishan Williams is a travel writer who writes under the pen name, Caleb Falcon. He specializes in writing content based on the many exciting world adventures that await intrepid travellers.