Sea World and Sea Animal Encounters Island Are Open at uShaka Marine World
28 February 2026
February is the perfect time to enjoy warm coastal weather, fewer crowds, and relaxed weekend energy in Durban. If you are looking for an exciting yet family-friendly way to wrap up the month, uShaka Marine World offers the ideal setting.
While Wet ’n Wild is temporarily closed for maintenance, Sea World and Sea Animal Encounters Island are fully open and ready to welcome visitors. This makes it the perfect opportunity to focus on marine exploration, interactive island activities, Shark Dive adventures, and snorkelling experiences — all in one location.
Why This Is the Perfect End-of-February Outing
Late summer on the KwaZulu-Natal coast brings warm temperatures, beautiful ocean views, and ideal conditions for outdoor activities. With children back at school and holiday rush slowing down, weekends are more relaxed and enjoyable.
A visit to uShaka Marine World at this time of year allows families and visitors to enjoy:
- More comfortable exploration time
- Shorter queues for activities
- Ideal weather for outdoor marine experiences
- A full-day attraction in one secure environment
It is the perfect balance between fun, education, and adventure.
Sea World – The Heart of the Marine Experience
Sea World remains one of Durban’s most iconic attractions. The expansive aquarium complex allows visitors to walk through immersive exhibits showcasing fascinating marine species from local and international waters.
Guests can enjoy:
- Large-scale aquarium displays
- Interactive and educational exhibits
- Informative marine conservation messaging
- Dolphin presentations
- Seal shows
The dolphin and seal presentations remain highlights of any visit. These shows combine entertainment with conservation awareness, giving families insight into marine life behaviour, training techniques, and ocean protection efforts.
Sea World offers a safe and structured environment where learning and fun come together seamlessly.
Sea Animal Encounters Island – The Weekend Highlight
With Wet ’n Wild temporarily closed, Sea Animal Encounters Island takes centre stage as a must-visit attraction inside uShaka Marine World.
This island-style experience is designed to create closer connections between visitors and marine life in a controlled, professional environment. It offers a mix of relaxed exploration and structured activity zones that make it suitable for all age groups.
Visitors can experience:
- Interactive marine engagement activities
- Guided educational sessions
- Family-friendly water experiences
- Relaxed island spaces for downtime
- Supervised marine encounters
It is the perfect setting for families looking to combine light adventure with meaningful learning.
Shark Dive – A Thrilling Marine Adventure
For visitors seeking a more adrenaline-driven experience, the Shark Dive is one of the most memorable activities available.
This professionally supervised experience allows participants to enter a secure marine environment where they can observe sharks up close. It is designed with strict safety protocols and guided by trained staff to ensure a controlled and educational experience.
The Shark Dive is ideal for:
- Adventure enthusiasts
- Visitors celebrating special occasions
- Marine life lovers wanting a rare perspective
- Those looking to tick off a unique experience
It adds an exciting edge to a family weekend outing.
Snorkelling – Relaxed but Unforgettable
If you prefer something less intense but equally memorable, snorkelling at Sea Animal Encounters Island offers the perfect alternative.
Snorkelling experiences allow guests to explore calm lagoon waters filled with fascinating marine species. Under guidance from professional staff, visitors can safely observe fish and other marine life in a naturalistic environment.
Benefits of the snorkelling experience include:
- Accessible activity for families
- Calm, controlled water conditions
- Educational insights into marine ecosystems
- A memorable introduction to underwater exploration
It is an excellent activity for children, parents, and first-time snorkellers alike.
Safety and Professional Supervision
One of the reasons uShaka Marine World remains a popular family destination is its commitment to structured, professional operations.
All marine encounters, shows, and water-based activities operate under clear safety guidelines. Trained staff supervise experiences to ensure guests feel comfortable and secure throughout their visit.
This makes it an ideal choice for families wanting a full-day attraction without the stress of multiple travel stops.
Make It a Full Weekend Experience
Ending February with a coastal weekend in Durban offers more than just a day at a marine park. Visitors can combine their uShaka experience with:
- Beach walks along Durban’s coastline
- Local dining experiences
- Morning ocean views
- Relaxed afternoon outings
But Sea World and Sea Animal Encounters Island alone provide enough activity to fill an entire day with meaningful experiences.
Whether you are a local resident planning a spontaneous weekend outing or visiting from elsewhere in KwaZulu-Natal, this is an ideal time to explore the marine side of uShaka Marine World while Wet ’n Wild undergoes maintenance.
The focus on Sea World, Sea Animal Encounters Island, Shark Dive, and snorkelling ensures that your February finale is packed with adventure, discovery, and lasting memories.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Sea World open at uShaka Marine World?
Yes. Sea World is fully operational and open to visitors.
Is Sea Animal Encounters Island open?
Yes. Sea Animal Encounters Island activities are open and available to guests.
Is Wet ’n Wild open?
Wet ’n Wild is temporarily closed for scheduled maintenance.
Are dolphin and seal shows still running?
Yes. Dolphin and seal presentations continue as scheduled and remain one of the main highlights of Sea World.
Can anyone do the Shark Dive?
The Shark Dive is available to visitors who meet the safety and age requirements. It is conducted under professional supervision.
Is snorkelling suitable for beginners?
Yes. Snorkelling experiences are guided and designed to be safe and accessible, including for first-time participants.
Is uShaka Marine World suitable for families with young children?
Absolutely. The park offers structured, family-friendly experiences and educational exhibits suitable for all ages.
How long should you plan to spend at uShaka Marine World?
Most visitors spend a full day exploring Sea World, attending shows, and participating in island activities.
Is February a good time to visit?
Yes. Late summer weather, fewer crowds, and warm coastal conditions make February an excellent time for a visit.
