Bray’s refurbished Marine Life Aquarium is opening with support from the Fisheries Local Action Group (FLAG) Southeast programme. The Co.Wicklow aquarium is expected to create up to 20 jobs across marine biology, hospitality, guest services, education and operations in the coming months, BIM says.
The investment was supported by a €50,000 grant under the Fisheries Local Action Group (FLAG) Southeast Scheme, part of the European Maritime, Fisheries and Aquaculture Fund (EMFAF).
The scheme is co-funded by the Government of Ireland and the European Union and administered by BIM as part of its wider role in strengthening coastal communities.
Interim CEO of BIM, Richard Donnelly, welcomed the opening. "FLAG funding is designed to strengthen coastal communities, and this project is a perfect example of that vision in action,” he said.
What was the former Sea Life Centre has been completely reimagined and expanded, offering an immersive visitor experience with cutting-edge exhibits and a focus on marine conservation and education.
The redevelopment was shaped by the vision and leadership of renowned marine biologist Dr Kevin Flannery, who has been instrumental in delivering the project along with local entrepreneur Shane O’Farrell, BIM says.
"Dr Flannery, regarded as one of Ireland’s foremost experts in marine conservation and public education, played a central role in designing the aquarium’s scientific and educational offering. His decades of experience helped ensure that the new facility would be both engaging and scientifically robust," it said.
Marine Life opened its doors for a soft launch before Christmas and is expected to become one of the biggest tourist attractions along the east coast for the 2026 tourist season, BIM says.
The new Marine Life Aquarium replaces the much-loved Sea Life Centre, which closed in 2023. The redesigned facility displays a mix of native Irish and exotic species, including blacktip sharks, cownose rays, piranhas, sturgeon, clownfish, and a range of delicate tropical species.
Reflecting on the closure of the previous centre, O’Farrell said: “When the old centre closed, it left a real gap on Bray’s seafront. We were determined to bring it back not just as it was, but better. Marine Life Aquarium is now a place where families can learn, explore and enjoy the magic of the ocean together.”
Under Dr Flannery’s guidance, Marine Life will deliver curriculum-linked marine science programmes, environmental workshops, hands-on biodiversity sessions, and activities designed for schools, youth groups, and marine-science enthusiasts. Inclusive programming will ensure accessibility for visitors with additional needs, BIM says.
The project also reflects a strong commitment to sustainability. Energy-efficient systems, improved water management, and waste-reduction measures have been incorporated throughout the facility to minimise environmental impact.
The closing date for applications to the FLAG Coastal Communities Development Scheme is 29 January 2026. Further details are available at bim.ie.
