Norwalk, CT - THE MARITIME AQUARIUM AT NORWALK inspires people of all ages to appreciate and protect the Long Island Sound ecosystem and the global environment through living exhibits, marine science and environmental education. The aquarium is home to over 7,000 animals of hundreds of species including seals, sharks, rays, jellies, turtles and meerkats. Additionally, it offers sensory-enhanced 4D movies, in-person and virtual education programs for schools and families, and public cruises aboard its hybrid-electric research vessel. The Maritime Aquarium is an accredited member of the Association of Zoos & Aquariums, and receives support from the State of Connecticut DECD’s Offices of Culture and Tourism. For more information, visit www.maritimeaquarium.org.
Camp
Looking for a memorable camp experience for your child? The Maritime Aquarium offers a variety of camps that are sure to inspire wonder in your young scientist. Camp sessions are offered from June 19 through Aug. 18, and vary in price and length. Registration open now.
The summer lineup features annual favorites as well as some new programs for children of all ages:
Age 6-8
- Animal Investigators featuring exciting classroom visits with animals.
- Shark Safari featuring a behind-the-scenes shark feeding.
- Jr. Aquarist featuring lessons with Aquarists on how to care for animals.
- Amazing Animal Architects featuring engineering projects that develop problem solving skills.
Age 9-12
- Jr. Field Scientist featuring adventures outside of the Aquarium to observe nature.
- Aquarium Stars featuring encounters with Aquarium favorites.
- Jr. Marine Biologist featuring learning opportunities in the lab and in the field.
- Fin-Fluencers featuring lessons on conservation and opportunities for campers to write and video edit.
Age 13-15
- Teen Apprentice featuring hands-on learning with aquarium staff.
For more information, visit www.maritimeaquarium.org/camps.
Marine Life Encounter Cruises
Explore Long Island Sound on The Maritime Aquarium’s Marine Life Encounter Cruises! This experience reveals the biodiversity of the Sound to passengers with water samples that bring up plankton, fish, crabs, mollusks, and more. Passengers will assist with recording data on their findings. Smaller organisms, like plankton, are examined with a video-microscope.
Marine Life Encounter Cruises are 2.5 hours long and will run through October. Passengers must be at least 42 inches tall, and those under 18 years old must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.
TGIF Cruises
Start your weekend off with a fun relaxing boat ride around the Norwalk islands. The Maritime Aquarium’s TGIF Cruises will run select Fridays at 6:30 p.m. through the month of August. On these 90 minute cruises, Aquarium educators will point out sights and wildlife. Guests will arrive back to the dock with plenty of time to enjoy a late dinner just steps away in SoNo!
Passengers must be at least 42 inches tall, and those under 18 years old must be accompanied by a parent or guardian. Food and drink isn’t available for purchase on the boat. However, guests may bring food and beverages in a small bag or soft-sided cooler. Glass bottles are prohibited.
Check www.maritimeaquarium.org for dates, times, and price.
Sunset Cruises
The Maritime Aquarium’s Sunset Cruises continue on select Saturdays in July. These 90 minute cruises feature beautiful sunset views of the harbor and the Norwalk Islands as well as native wildlife.
Passengers must be at least 42 inches tall, and those under 18 years old must be accompanied by a parent or guardian. Food and drink isn’t available for purchase on the boat. However, guests may bring food and beverages in a small bag or soft-sided cooler. Glass bottles are prohibited.
Check www.maritimeaquarium.org for dates, times, and price.
Fireworks Cruises
Celebrate the Fourth of July with The Maritime Aquarium and enjoy on-the-water views of Norwalk and Rowayton’s fireworks displays!
Cruise times:
- Norwalk: Monday, July 3, from 7:45 to 11:15 p.m.
- Rowayton: Tuesday, July 4, from 7:45 to 11:15 p.m.
Passengers must be at least 42 inches tall, and those under 18 years old must be accompanied by a parent or guardian. Food and drink isn’t available for purchase on the boat. However, guests may bring food and beverages in a small bag or soft-sided cooler. Glass bottles are prohibited.
Check www.maritimeaquarium.org for prices.
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 visit www.maritimeaquarium.org.