SEA LIFE Melbourne Aquarium has turned its underwater world into the SEA LIFE Isles, blending Nintendo's Animal Crossing: New Horizons with the aquarium's real marine residents for a limited-time family experience running from 16 September to 8 November 2026 - timed perfectly for the school holidays. We were invited to the breakfast launch event and it was a genuinely immersive experience, complete with a delicious hot breakfast and coffee.
Now in its second year following overwhelming demand and a successful Sydney run, it's a genuinely interactive trail woven through the aquarium's existing exhibits, built around character meet-and-greets, a stamp rally, and playful marine-education moments that give the game's fans a reason to explore beyond the screen.
"Following an incredibly successful first year, the return of the Animal Crossing: New Horizons experience is a direct response to strong fan demand," said Chris Kearney, SEA LIFE Melbourne Aquarium General Manager. "We're thrilled to bring together fans of Animal Crossing's sense of community and connection to nature."
What's Inside the Animal Crossing: New Horizons Experience
Guests kick off their adventure by collecting an Island Excursion Guide, then set off through the aquarium to uncover themed trails inspired by the game.
Meet Isabelle
Isabelle, the island's much-loved secretary, is on hand for photo opportunities in the Rainforest Walk zone. During school holidays (19 September – 4 October), meet-and-greet sessions run at 10.30am, 11.30am, 12.30pm, 1.30pm and 2.30pm. Outside school holidays, sessions run at 11.30am, 12.30pm, 1.30pm and 2.30pm, each lasting 25 minutes. Arriving early is recommended, as queues can close during busy periods. We were able to meet Isabelle ourselves at the breakfast launch event.
The Island Stamp Rally
New for 2026, guests collect embossed stamps at stations throughout the aquarium while learning about island villagers including Fang, Stitches and Flip. Complete the rally and staff at the exit will reward you with an exclusive commemorative postcard, a keepsake of the island adventure. I followed the journey myself and the launch and there's plenty of stations for maximum educational benefit and fun.
Marine Education, Animal Crossing Style
Look out for fun, fact-filled marine-life panels presented by Blathers, the game's iconic museum curator, connecting island charm to SEA LIFE's real marine residents, plus a playful "Find Drifting Gulliver" trail and character cutouts thoughtfully integrated throughout the journey.
Refurbished Penguin Exhibit
As an added drawcard this season, SEA LIFE Melbourne's penguin habitat has recently been refurbished, giving visiting families a fresh look at the aquarium's resident penguins waddling in their new space. For me, its an absolute highlight and I loved re-engaging with this world-class penguin habitat once again.
Tickets and Pricing
| Ticket Type | Online | On the Day |
|---|---|---|
| Child (limited-time offer) | $19 | Standard $39 |
| Adult General Admission | From $49 | From $53 |
| Annual Pass | $99 new / $79 renewal | 351 days entry |
Prices correct at time of publication and subject to change; booking online is recommended to guarantee entry and secure the discounted child rate.
Good to Know Before You Go
- The experience runs for the duration of the Victorian school holidays and beyond, until 8 November 2026
- Isabelle meet-and-greet times differ during and outside school holidays - check the SEA LIFE Melbourne website on the day of your visit for the latest schedule
- Animal Crossing merchandise is available in the gift shop for fans wanting to take the island home with them
- SEA LIFE Melbourne Aquarium is located on Southbank, an easy stroll from the CBD - pair your visit with lunch nearby for a full family day out
I got an early look at the experience at SEA LIFE Melbourne's launch breakfast, and it's a genuinely charming addition for families - the stamp rally in particular kept kids engaged the whole way through, and the refreshed penguin exhibit is worth the visit on its own.
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Frequently Asked Questions
When is the Animal Crossing: New Horizons experience at SEA LIFE Melbourne?
The experience runs from 16 September to 8 November 2026, timed to coincide with the Victorian school holidays.
Is this the same as last year's experience?
It's the second year of the partnership between Nintendo and SEA LIFE Melbourne, returning by popular demand following a successful first year and a follow-up Sydney run. The 2026 activation has been refreshed with new discovery moments and deeper engagement for fans and families.
Do I need to book tickets in advance?
Booking online is recommended to guarantee entry and to access the discounted $19 child ticket price, which is not guaranteed on the day.
When can I meet Isabelle?
During school holidays, sessions run at 10.30am, 11.30am, 12.30pm, 1.30pm and 2.30pm. Outside school holidays, sessions run at 11.30am, 12.30pm, 1.30pm and 2.30pm. Each session runs for 25 minutes, and arriving early is recommended as queues can close during busy periods.
Is the experience included with general admission?
Yes, the Animal Crossing: New Horizons experience is included with standard SEA LIFE Melbourne Aquarium admission — there's no separate ticket required.
What do you get for completing the stamp rally?
Guests who collect all the character stamps receive an exclusive commemorative postcard, available by showing a completed rally sheet to staff near the aquarium exit.
Is SEA LIFE Melbourne Aquarium suitable for toddlers and young children?
Yes, the aquarium and the Animal Crossing trail are designed to be family-friendly and suitable for all ages, with character photo moments and interactive trails aimed at younger visitors.