The aim of this complex is to introduce visitors to the incredible diversity of sea life which occurs in the ocean around the Cape coast. A world first is the interesting exhibit of a complete river ecosystem that traces the course of a stream from its mountain source dons to the open sea. One of the most fascinating features is a ceiling-high glass tank that holds various shoals of line fish, like Red Roman, swimming among the waving tangles of a kelp forest. Apart from water birds like wagtails, there is a resident colony of jackass penguins, a tank full of mischievous seals and the touch pool, which has wide-eyed children exploring delicate underwater creatures like crabs, starfish and sea urchins.

The complex is constantly upgraded to accommodate new exhibits, such as the recently installed jellyfish tank. Adventurous visitors in possession of a valid scuba licence may book dives during the day.

The I & J predator tank is a two-million-litre exhibit protected by shatterproof glass. Open to the sea, the tides constantly wash in fresh sea water for the turtle, yellowtails and ragged tooth sharks.