In a landmark development, the North Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fisher has embarked on a transformative expansion project, set to become the state’s largest aquarium. This ambitious initiative by the North Carolina Department of Natural and Cultural Resources aims to foster a deeper appreciation for aquatic life among its visitors.
The commencement of this significant construction was marked by a ceremonial groundbreaking, attended by a host of state officials, community allies, and contributors. The expanded facility will feature captivating new exhibits, including a vast 400,000-gallon shark habitat, a vibrant coral habitat, an engaging touch pool, and an enlarged education center.
“This project represents a major investment in the future of the North Carolina Aquariums,” remarked Pamela B. Cashwell, secretary of the N.C. Department of Natural and Cultural Resources. “As we celebrate 50 years of inspiring appreciation for our aquatic environments, this groundbreaking signals our continued commitment to education, conservation, and meaningful visitor experiences for generations to come.”
The extensive renovation is funded through both state allocations and private donations orchestrated by the North Carolina Aquarium Society. “The groundbreaking reflects years of collaboration, vision, and generous support,” said Brick Brown, chair of the North Carolina Aquarium Society’s board of directors. Acknowledging the vital contributions from the North Carolina General Assembly and various patrons, Brown emphasized the project’s collaborative nature.
Due to the ongoing construction, which is projected to last 30 months, the Aquarium closed its doors to the public on May 26. During this period, the majority of its marine inhabitants will continue to receive care onsite.
Joanna Zazzali, director of the North Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fisher, shared her enthusiasm: “This is a defining moment for the Aquarium and our community. Breaking ground brings years of planning into motion, and we’re excited to begin building an experience that will deepen connections to and conservation of the natural world.”
To maintain public engagement, the Aquarium and its Society will unveil Discovery Bay at Wilmington’s Independence Mall. This interactive venue, scheduled to open in mid-June, will present diverse aquatic environments, educational displays, and a gift shop.
The groundbreaking is part of the broader 50th-anniversary celebrations of the North Carolina Aquariums, commemorating a half-century of connecting the public with the fascinating aquatic realm.
Visitors are encouraged to explore the other locations of the North Carolina Aquariums—Pine Knoll Shores, Roanoke Island, and Jennette’s Pier in Nags Head—while construction is underway at Fort Fisher.
For updates, follow NCAFF on Facebook, Threads, and Instagram. More information on the expansion can be found at Oceans More to Come.
About the North Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fisher
Located just south of Kure Beach and a short drive from Wilmington, the North Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fisher is part of the North Carolina Aquariums, under the Department of Natural and Cultural Resources. It aims to foster an appreciation for aquatic environments. Features include a 235,000-gallon sand tiger shark habitat, an albino alligator, a bald eagle, a loggerhead sea turtle habitat, and Asian small-clawed otters.
Operating hours are from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily. Admission rates are $12.95 for ages 13-61, $10.95 for children ages 3-12, $11.95 for seniors and military personnel, and $3 for NC EBT cardholders (up to four tickets). Children under 2 and members of the N.C. Aquarium Society and N.C. Zoo enter for free.
About the North Carolina Department of Natural and Cultural Resources
The N.C. Department of Natural and Cultural Resources oversees more than 100 sites statewide, enhancing education, economic development, public health, and community resilience. Visit www.dncr.nc.gov for more details.
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