Singapore Oceanarium Celebrates World Manta Day with Special Programmes

This September, Singapore Oceanarium is shining the spotlight on one of the ocean’s most graceful giants: the manta ray. Timed with World Manta Day on 17 September, the oceanarium is launching Animal Spotlight: Manta Rays, a two-week immersive series running from 6 to 20 September 2025, perfect for families looking to make the most of the school holidays.

Behind-the-Scenes Encounters

The 45-minute Animal Spotlight: Manta Rays guided experience gives guests a rare glimpse into the care, diet, and behaviour of these vulnerable marine animals. Led by aquarists and education guides, the session runs three times daily and encourages deeper conversations on conservation. Each participant also receives a manta ray plush keychain and lanyard set as keepsakes. Tickets are priced at $28 per person (ages 4+), as an add-on to the oceanarium’s one-day admission.

Expert Insights from a Global Conservationist

On 13 September at 4pm, visitors can hear directly from Daniel Fernando, Co-Founder of Blue Resources Trust and Associate Director of the Manta Trust. A leading marine conservationist, Fernando will shed light on the threats manta and devil rays face from overfishing and trade, and share strategies driving global protection efforts. The session will be held both online and on-site at the Research and Learning Centre.

Family-Friendly Fun & Themed Treats

Beyond the spotlight sessions, guests can enjoy a host of manta-inspired activities:

• Meet & Greet with the Manta Ray Mascot – Daily at 3pm in the Open Ocean Zone.
• Limited-Time F&B Specials – Sweet treats like the Manta Ray Cupcake Combo and Blue Pea Stracciatella Gelato.
• Exclusive Retail Souvenirs – Marine-themed collectibles to bring home.
• Storytelling Adventure – Manja’s Adventure at the Children’s Biodiversity Library (6 Sept, 11am–12pm). Admission is free, no registration required.

Part of an Ongoing Series

The Animal Spotlight series is part of Singapore Oceanarium’s mission to foster appreciation for marine biodiversity, with past editions focusing on sea jellies and corals. Complementing these are other enriching programmes, from the Ocean in Focus: Into the Abyss tour to the hands-on Fossilist Workshop, all designed to inspire ocean advocacy through engaging, family-friendly experiences.

Tickets for Animal Spotlight: Manta Rays are available here. To register for the Expert Sharing Session, email events@singaporeoceanarium.com with your ticket details at least three working days in advance.

All images credit to: Singapore Oceanarium, Resorts World Sentosa