Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Caribbean Reef Encounter
Located near the entrance by the lily pool and tropical na-
ture trail, the Reef Encounter is an 80,000-gallon tank that
is exposed to sun, air and rain, recreating the natural envi-
ronment of a coral reef. The circular viewing area has
eight-foot-high glass walls so viewers are surrounded by
hundreds of reef fish and other reef creatures swimming
among living coral and sponges. Feeding here is at 9:45 am
and 1:45 pm.
Marine Gardens Aquarium
The twin domes to the rear of the complex are
the Marine Gardens, which are similar to main-
land aquariums except that the 21 tanks focus
on local species. Each seascape represents a
typical coral reef and its denizens, with their personalities
and symbiotic relationships. You'll see purple anemones,
spiny sea urchins, strange pipefish, colorful sponges and
coral crabs. The most interesting exhibit is the glowing fluo-
rescent corals, shown under ultra-violet light.
Although the sights above are the most dramatic in the
Coral World complex, there are many other spots you'll find
interesting. Among them: The turtle pool, iguana alley,
shark shallows and touch pool where you can handle star-
fish and sea cucumbers.
The Coral World Dive Shop is the place to stop if you want to
try Sea Trekkin' (see
Active Water Sports
). There are gift
shops and several restaurants on the grounds.
Entrance fees are $18 adults, $9 for children under 12. Sea
Trekkin': $68 adults, $59 for children, includes entrance fees
to Coral World.
Coral World has installed a wheelchair lift at the entrance to
the Caribbean Reef Encounter. The entire complex has wide
walkways, ramps, interactive exhibits and interpretive
signs, all designed to allow those with impairments to visit
the area comfortably.
