This year, take the plunge into a fresh universe as Animal Crossing: New Horizons collaborates with SEA LIFE centers throughout the UK. Brought to life by Nintendo, this well-loved life simulation game invites you to carve out your paradise on a deserted island, mingling with its charming residents.
### A UK First
Making its UK debut, Animal Crossing: New Horizons, a game that’s captured the hearts of over 46 million players worldwide since its launch in March 2020, is joining forces with SEA LIFE UK for a groundbreaking live experience. This special collaboration will let visitors explore the wonders of the ocean in the company of some familiar faces from the game.
The tour will set sail from SEA LIFE Manchester on February 8th, 2025. From there, it will journey across the UK to SEA LIFE Birmingham, SEA LIFE Brighton, SEA LIFE London, and SEA LIFE Chessington World of Adventures Resort, promising an unforgettable experience for fans of both SEA LIFE and Animal Crossing.
### An Immersive Adventure Awaits
Owned by Merlin Entertainments, the world’s second-largest leisure group, SEA LIFE UK offers the perfect backdrop for this adventure. It’s the largest aquarium network globally, and each venue features themed zones ranging from the Atlantic and Arctic to the Rainforest and Tropics. With thousands of marine species on display, it’s a spectacular setting for exploration.
Catherine Pritchard, the General Manager at SEA LIFE London Aquarium, couldn’t be more excited: “We can’t wait to offer this exclusive experience across several of our SEA LIFE sites. Our guests will embark on an exciting journey with Animal Crossing: New Horizons characters, all while being surrounded by the incredible creatures in our aquariums, like Green Sea Turtles and Zebra Sharks. It’s an enriching and unique outing for families and friends.”
### Activities and Character Encounters
Guided by a tour leader, visitors will enjoy the ‘Sea Life Islands’ experience, getting to know island personalities like Aurora and Octavian, while encountering a variety of sea creatures. There’s even a fossil dig revealing the ancient ancestors of today’s beloved marine life, and a search for Gulliver, stranded on island shores.
Participants can collect character stamps, uncover fascinating facts about SEA LIFE’s residents, and engage with Tom Nook and Isabelle. Before wrapping up the visit, fans can browse exclusive Animal Crossing: New Horizons merchandise available at the aquarium’s store.
### Event Dates
– SEA LIFE Manchester: 8th February – 9th March 2025
– SEA LIFE Birmingham: 12th April – 11th May 2025
– SEA LIFE Brighton: 24th May – 15th June 2025
– SEA LIFE London: 30th June – 27th July 2025
– SEA LIFE Chessington World of Adventures: 1st August – 31st August 2025
### Discover SEA LIFE
Around the globe, there are more than 40 SEA LIFE Centres, including those in places like Birmingham, Sydney, Paris, Oberhausen, Bangkok, and Orlando. Caring for over 180,000 creatures in stunning themed habitats, SEA LIFE welcomes more than 20 million guests annually to its 50 aquariums and six sanctuaries.