Deep Sea World: Everything you need to know, including travel and what to expect
Located in Scotland, Queensferry, Deep Sea World is one of the most popular aquatic attractions in the country.
This family-friendly destination is more than a national aquarium. It is home to a wide range of marine life, including a collection of sharks, stingrays, and sea turtles.
With thousands of incredible creatures from the depths of the ocean, Deep Sea World is a great place to explore and learn more about our planet's most mysterious inhabitants.
Why visit Edinburgh Deep Sea World
What to expect
The first thing you will notice as you approach Deep Sea World is the striking architecture that houses the attraction. It’s hard to miss the building’s distinct shape of a giant wave.
You'll be welcomed by friendly staff who will provide you with a map of the venue and answer any questions you may have.
Visitors can expect to come face to face with many underwater creatures through more than 40 exhibits throughout the aquarium. The first exhibit is the Seal Harbour. Here you can watch as these playful creatures swim, dive and play in their habitat.
You'll also be able to learn more about their behaviour and habits. If you’re feeling brave enough, you can even experience diving with the sharks in an assisted Scuba swim session.
As you walk through the Ocean Tunnel, you'll be surrounded by a massive tank filled with all sorts of sea creatures. From sharks to rays to giant turtles, you'll be amazed by the diversity of marine life on display.
The Amazonian Flooded Forests features some of the most colourful and unusual fish in the world, including the iconic piranha. You'll also be able to learn about the importance of conservation efforts in the Amazon region.
From housing starfish to jellyfish to seahorses, the Underwater Safari is a delight for all ages. In addition to the regular exhibits, there are plenty of daily shows and talks where visitors can learn more about specific creatures or conservation efforts. These are a great way to deepen your understanding of the marine world and its importance.
Deep Sea World has a café where you can grab a bite to eat, or you can bring a picnic and enjoy it in the outdoor seating area if the weather permits. There's also a gift shop where you can pick up souvenirs and gifts for loved ones.
How long will you spend there?
Since it is one of the largest oceanic experiences in the world, visitors can expect to spend several hours at Deep Sea World. It will all depend on who you go with and what you are interested in.
Those with children and large groups that have a keen interest in animals, nature, and sealife will be able to spend all day there. If you want to take a quick stroll through the attraction, it can be done in an hour or two.
Travelling to Deep Sea World
Getting there by train
It’s easier than you might think to get there by train, plus you’ll be able to relax onboard and enjoy a coffee. It’s also a bit of an adventure for the kids if you’ve some in tow. Catch a train from Edinburgh Waverly Station directly to North Queensferry station in just 20 minutes. From here, it is a short 10 minute walk from Deep Sea World.
From Glasgow Central Station, it is only about 1.5 hours after changing at Edinburgh Waverly.
Get to Deep Sea World via train with Avanti
Travel with ease by train with Avanti. Ensure you get the cheapest train tickets available by booking in advance or travelling during off-peak hours. If you’re travelling as a family or with young people, you can save even more money with the right Railcard or a family ticket.
You can also make travelling even easier with the Avanti West Coast app. Search for train times, find the best fare, and keep your railcards and tickets safe digitally.
Getting there by car
The address for Deep Sea World is:
Battery Quarry
North Queensferry
Fife
KY11 1JR
Enter this into your GPS to get accurate directions and an estimated arrival time for your journey. If you are driving from Edinburgh, take the M90 motorway northbound towards Perth. Take the exit for the A904 towards North Queensferry, and then follow the signs for Deep Sea World.
If you are coming from Glasgow, take the M8 motorway eastbound towards Edinburgh, then the M9 motorway towards the Forth Road Bridge. Cross the bridge and take the A904 towards North Queensferry, then follow the signs for Deep Sea World.
You will know you're close when you see big blue signs pointing towards the aquarium. Always check for any road closures or delays before setting off on your journey.
When you arrive at Deep Sea World, there are plenty of parking spaces available in the car park right next to the building.
