This year, get ready to dive into something extraordinary as Animal Crossing: New Horizons is coming to SEA LIFE centers across the UK. This popular life simulation game by Nintendo lets you craft your own paradise on a deserted island and mingle with its quirky residents.
A First in the UK
In a UK first, the wildly successful Animal Crossing: New Horizons, with over 46 million copies sold since it hit the shelves in March 2020, is linking arms with SEA LIFE UK for a brand-new live experience. This unique partnership invites guests to explore the wonders of marine life alongside some of the beloved game’s characters.
Launching at SEA LIFE Manchester on February 8, 2025, the tour is set to journey across SEA LIFE Birmingham, SEA LIFE Brighton, SEA LIFE London, and SEA LIFE Chessington World of Adventures Resort, promising a treat for both SEA LIFE fans and Animal Crossing enthusiasts.
An Immersive and Fun Experience
SEA LIFE UK, operated under Merlin Entertainments—the world’s second-largest leisure group and owner of the planet’s largest aquarium network—stands as the perfect venue for this adventure. With themed zones that span from the Atlantic to the Tropics, as well as thousands of sea creatures, this immersive environment is rich in diversity and mystery.
Catherine Pritchard, the General Manager at SEA LIFE London Aquarium, couldn’t contain her excitement about this joint venture: "Offering this exclusive experience at several SEA LIFE sites is thrilling for us. Visitors will embark on a journey with Animal Crossing: New Horizons characters, encompassed by the awe-inspiring marine life, from Green Sea Turtles to Zebra Sharks. It’s set to be a fun and unforgettable adventure for families and friends alike."
Activities and Character Encounters
Armed with a tour guide, guests will navigate the ‘Sea Life Islands’, where they’ll meet island residents like Aurora and Octavian, all while discovering a myriad of sea creatures. Adding to the excitement is a fossil dig—unearthing the ancient relatives of today’s beloved marine animals—alongside a quest for Gulliver, who’s been marooned on the island’s shores.
Throughout their journey, visitors can gather character stamps, gain fascinating insights into SEA LIFE inhabitants, and meet with Tom Nook and Isabelle. The adventure doesn’t end there—fans can also purchase Animal Crossing: New Horizons merchandise from the aquarium store before heading home.
Event Dates
- SEA LIFE Manchester: February 8 – March 9, 2025
- SEA LIFE Birmingham: April 12 – May 11, 2025
- SEA LIFE Brighton: May 24 – June 15, 2025
- SEA LIFE London: June 30 – July 27, 2025
- SEA LIFE Chessington World of Adventures: August 1 – August 31, 2025
About SEA LIFE
Globally, SEA LIFE centers dot the map in over 40 locations, including Birmingham, Sydney, Paris, Oberhausen, Bangkok, and Orlando. They care for more than 180,000 creatures across a range of stunning themed habitats and welcome over 20 million guests annually through their 50 aquariums and six sanctuaries.
(Note: Figures marked with (*) refer to the source of sales statistics.)
