Calling Young Aquanauts: A Fantastical Underwater Playground Comes to Mote Marine Aquarium

By Jacqueline Miller | April 2023 | Photos Courtesy of Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium. The ‘Voyage of the Deep’ exhibition was created and developed by the Australian National Maritime Museum, an Australian Government entity. The exhibition tour is managed by Flying Fish.

When it comes to family fun, Mote Marine Aquarium has an incredible exhibition through May 21 not to be missed—”Voyage to the Deep”.

Based on French author Jules Verne’s 1870 classic “20,000 Leagues Under the Sea,” this underwater adventure exhibition brings to life the deep-sea adventures of Captain Nemo, his fantastical Nautilus submarine, and the mythical world he inhabited.

“‘Voyage to the Deep’ celebrates fictional explorers of the deep, while Mote’s scientists are real-life explorers and innovators,” said Mote’s Senior Exhibits Coordinator, Samantha Bledstein. “We want our guests to have the opportunity to put themselves in the shoes of our scientists and know that they too can be researchers and protect our oceans.”

With this exhibit, Mote Aquarium visitors will have the unique opportunity to join in the undersea odyssey. Guests can climb aboard the five-part interactive Nautilus submarine, which includes a bridge, control room, salon, living quarters and engine room to explore. The exhibition’s educational content is approachable for all ages, and it covers topics such as marine life, submarines, and various maritime archaeology.

“At Mote Aquarium, we are focused on research, conservation and education through interactive opportunities for our members and guests,” said Associate Vice President for Mote Aquarium, Evan Barniskis. “‘Voyage to the Deep’ is an immersive experience that perfectly complements our mission of marine science exploration, conservation and oceans for all.” 

Through a collection of settings and props, kids will imagine they are submarine captains. They can take up the controls at the helm, peer through the periscopes, crank the propeller, test out the bunks and explore Captain Nemo’s Cabinet of Curiosities full of wonderful marine specimens. This indoor, “underwater” playground includes speaking tubes, a squid-themed slide, puzzles and an Atlantis Performance stage, creating a one-of-a-kind visitor experience.

After exploring “Voyage of the Deep”, take the kids to see the other 12 amazing exhibitions at Mote including sharks, otters, manatees, sea turtles, and other incredible sea creatures.  There’s also a virtual reality experience and fossil exhibition.

For more information, visit: mote.org/voyage.

The “Voyage of the Deep” exhibition was created and developed by the Australian National Maritime Museum, an Australian Government entity. The exhibition tour is managed by Flying Fish and is supported in-part by Sarasota County Tourist Development Tax revenues.