It was our family’s first visit here and we had a lovely time. The submarine entrance was a nice added touch for the kids. We spent our time looking at everything, enjoying the touch pool and learning from the educators about the Salish Sea. We felt very welcomed, especially with the humour and kindness from the education staff. It really shows how much fun they are, too. The octopus had finished lunch when we arrived so she was very active, moving from one side to the other. Compared to other aquariums we’ve been to, she’s a standout! We came on a weekday, which is typically less busy, and it gave us the chance to take our time to really look at everything. The wolf eel even made an appearance, which an educator pointed out and it gave our visit a more interactive approach that we appreciated. Jamie, one of the educators at the centre was stellar. He was warm, welcoming and patient with my kids’ questions and comments. At one point during our visit, he walked through the centre to invite guests to a pollinator trivia activity. My kids really enjoyed learning from him. Thank you Jamie! Yes, it is a smaller centre, features a more locally focused cast of marine life, yet it offers a much more chill and interactive experience that our family really enjoyed.

This small yet charming aquarium is a must-see on vancouver island, and it was a delightful experience! The entrance elevator is very cool, and also makes it all very accessible. Despite its modest size, the variety of marine life was impressive, especially the mesmerizing jellyfish and the playful octopus. The touch pool was a highlight, allowing for a hands-on encounter with some fascinating sea creatures. The staff were incredibly friendly and knowledgeable, always eager to share interesting facts about the exhibits. The gift shop was a cool addition, offering unique souvenirs that are perfect for marine life enthusiasts. The only downside was that it felt a tad overpriced for the size of the aquarium, and for most of their merchandise but the experience and the joy it brought made it worth it. Overall, a lovely visit that I highly recommend!

We went there on the 1st Monday of Spring Break, 3 adults, 2 children and a baby with a stroller. We didn't buy tickets in advance and although it wasn't empty, there was no waiting time. I thought it was overpriced at first, but after our visit I thought it was worth it! My 8yo and my 4yo had never had this much fun in other aquariums or museums! The staff was friendly and engaged them throughout the tour with easy language for them to understand, plus fun games and activities and crafts! The final area has children's books, more interactive games and stations and a touch pool with another knowledgeable and kind staff/volunteer. We just loved the experience as a whole, loved how spacious it was there and I didn't feel like I was on anyone's way while pushing the stroller and I felt comfortable enough to breastfeed my baby while sitting and watching the fish swim. So thankful for a place this welcoming in our community! Will definitely be coming back!

Amazing for such a small space. Really inspiring for little and adults alike. Our young toddler really enjoyed the play area, as well as the jellyfish and the rock fish tanks. Vancouver Aquarium could take notes from your gift shop! Well stocked with unique toys, local gifts and children's books. Thanks for a great time!

I grew up in Vancouver and was used to the Vancouver Aquarium. I had never been here before, but went here with my children last week. It was quite busy, but the staff were very helpful and attentive. The tanks are interesting and beautiful. I was surprised by the price, but all prices seem to be high nowadays. It's definitely less than the Vancouver Aquarium is now, but it is also much smaller than the Vancouver Aquarium. There is an interesting exhibit on pollinators that is also there right now. The octopus showed itself at the end of our visit which was wonderful. The jellyfish and eels were a highlight for me. The children really loved the tidal pool part where you are allowed to gently touch some tide pool dwellers and the tank with the bubble at the bottom that they could pique their head up into to get a picture with the fish. It took us about an hour to go through here and look at all of the tanks and the exhibit.

I had a spectacular experience learning about the rich maritime life beneath the Salish Sea here. The museum is small yet there is a lot to see. The staff are extremely knowledgeable and my tour was quirky and fun. I especially liked the octopus, whom I was told was really in a mood to show off. The touch pool was amazing as well. All in all, I had a sensational tour and this museum is a great place to visit while in Sidney.

Well organized place. Friendly cashiers at the entrance. Cool main entrance door. All aquariums are well maintained. They have several guides who are happy to bring wide explanation. Thanks, Roman! Also there is a room where you can touch some starfish or anemone. Nice calm sound of the sea is supporting. Free parking nearby. You will spend about an hour.

Lots of very educational live and digital-view marine creatures from the Salish Sea. There was also an area where you could touch the live creatures. You can easily see time fly as you gaze at each installation while learning fascinating facts about marine life. There is also a neat gift shop where you can purchase some neat items for kids. A wonderful morning here.