Explore the wreckage of Captain Black’s galleon in Mutiny Bay and discover a whole new underwater world. With over 300 species of fish, including rays, sharks and seahorses Sharkbait Reef by Sealife allows you to enter the magical and mysterious world under the sea.

Need2Know

  • Min. Rider Height: None
  • Max. Rider Height: None
  • Ride Photography: Yes
  • Fastrack: No

Tech Specs

  • Manufacturer: Merlin Studios
  • Ride Type: SEALIFE Centre
  • Opened: 28th March 2009
  • Cost: £4 million

Experience

Located towards the far end of Mutiny Bay, guests enter through a large wooden entrance surrounded by parts of various creatures of the deep. Once inside there is a short corridor where visitors can have their photo taken in the tentacles of a giant octopus, before proceeding into the aquarium itself.

Once inside you are brought face to face with a plethora of underwater species, from clown fish to seahorses and eels to shrimps. As you make your way around the multitude of displays you enter Skeleton Bay, home to a large open top tank which has been home to a variety of exhibits, most recently a selection of smaller rays and sharks. The centrepiece of the attraction is a stunning ten metre ocean tunnel. Home to sharks, rays and other creatures of the deep, you can watch in awe as they gracefully glide above and around you. Guests can also enjoy the warm waters of the UK’s only Tropical Interactive Pool where you can dip your fingers into the tropical waters to receive a manicure from friendly shrimps!

History

Costing £4 Million, Sharkbait Reef by SEALIFE first opened in 2009, one year after Mutiny Bay. The attraction introduced the SEALIFE brand to Alton Towers’ line up of rides and attractions, enabling guests to not only admire the fantastic range of sea creatures on display, but also to learn about their habitat and the conservation efforts of many of the endangered species on display.

The opening of Th13teen in 2010 saw the introduction of a special Th13teen themed tank, which included a model of the rollercoaster itself. The following year twelve Japanese Spider Crabs were added to the aquarium in Skeleton Bay.

The 2016 season saw the addition of Land Hermit Crabs to Sharkbait Reef’s touch pools, with these crustaceans squeaking to each other when they get excited. The resort regularly updates the display within the aquarium, meaning there is always something new for everyone to enjoy.