Extreme Adventures FAQs

• Which Birthday Party Package is best for my birthday child?

We have three Birthday Party Packages. The Standard Party Package is recommended for any child 0-3 years old. The Deluxe Party Package is recommended for any child between the ages of 4-12 and the Extreme Party Package is recommended for any child 9 years of age or older.

• What is included in the Birthday Party Packages?

Each Birthday Party Package includes a decorated private party room, a party coordinator, an ocean themed birthday cake, birthday candles, beverages, plates, forks, a gift for the birthday child, self-guided activities and a guided tour through the aquarium.

The Deluxe Birthday Party Package also includes a Behind-the-Scenes Tour, a commemorative photo for the birthday child, Shark Tooth Necklaces for each child, live animals for the kids to touch and a Souvenir Spotter's Guide for each person.

The Extreme Birthday Party Package also includes snorkeling for up to 8 people, a commemorative photo for the birthday child and a Souvenir Spotter's Guide for each person.

• Are there Add-On Options?

Yes.

$30 - Pinata
$50 - Mascot Sharky Visit (30 minutes)
$5 each - Plush Stuffed Sharky
$20 additional - ½ Sheet Cake
$45 additional - Full Sheet Cake
$10 each - Nickelodeon Universe 2-hour Unlimited Ride Wristband
Add Pizza or Subway sandwiches for an additional charge as well

• What is a Tunnel Overnight?

Bring your sleeping bag and join us for a 14-hour adventure that includes a Guided Aquarium Tour, an exlusive Behind-the-Scenes Tour, hands-on educational activities, a pizza party, breakfast in the morning and a night of sleeping in the tunnel with fish swimming overhead!

• Should we bring a sleeping bag?

Yes. We will provide each guest with a 1” sleeping mat. Please bring with you a pillow and sleeping bag. Mattresses and cots are not allowed.

• Do I have to attend the sleepover with my child?

We recommend 1 adult with every 10 children. Please call Group Sales with further questions 1.866.823.9383

• Should I make advanced reservations?

We recommend calling 45 days in advance as this program fills up quickly.

• Are the fish friendly?

Absolutely! If you spend enough time around our fish you’ll learn they have personalities all their own. We have curious Pufferfish, timid Clownfish, active & sociable Cownose Stringrays and more! Come check it out for yourself!

• Will I have fun if I have never snorkeled before?

Yep! Our trained staff will spend time instructing you on how to use your mask, fins and snorkel. They will also educate you on the animals you will be swimming with and give you a tour of the tank prior to jumping in. We want to make sure you feel comfortable in the water before you get in so feel free to ask lots of questions.

• What is the temperature of the water?

The saltwater tank is 82 degrees: we will provide you with an exposure suit to keep you comfortable during your ½ hour swim. The salt in the water will also keep you very buoyant, so floating is not a problem for anyone in this tank.

• Can I bring my own snorkel equipment?

Yes.

• Can I bring an underwater camera?

Yes. However, you are responsible for your own film equipment. Please note that SEA LIFE Minnesota Aquarium is not liable for damages to your video or still camera during the snorkel program.

• How long does the program last?

Our Two-Exhibit Dive Program is 3.5 hours long and includes a Behind-the-Scenes Tour, Dive Safety Briefing, dive in Fisherman’s Hollow - Freshwater, surface interval with snacks & beverages and a dive in Atlantis - Saltwater Exhibit.

Our Single Exhibit Dive Program is 2 hours & 45 minutes long and includes a Behind-the-Scenes Tour, Dive Safety Briefing and a dive in Fisherman’s Hollow - Freshwater.

• Can we bring our own gear?

Yes. SEA LIFE Minnesota Aquarium will provide air tanks, weight belt and weights only. Please call for a list of area dive shops that offer discounts on rental gear for our SCUBA program. 952.853.0612

• What will I see and do?

In Fisherman’s Hollow, you will experience a hands-on, interactive dive. You will enjoy hand feeding our Sturgeon, swimming next to 4 foot Alligator Gar, getting up close and personal with a Paddle Fish (considered a living fossil) and swim along side Muskie, Walleye, Long & Short-Nose Gar, Crappie, Catfish, Carpe, Bass and more!

In Atlantis, you’ll feel a rush of excitement when you enter the world of the deep. You’ll be diving with Sea Turtles, Sawfish, Guitarfish, White & Black Tip Reef Sharks, Nurse Sharks, Sand Tiger Sharks, Wobbegong Sharks and much more! In Atlantis, you will also have the opportunity to look for and take home as many shark teeth as you can find!

• What type of wetsuit do your recommend?

We recommend a 5mm – 7mm wetsuit. Fisherman’s Hollow is 68-72 degrees and Atlantis is around 78 degrees.

• Can I bring an underwater camera?

Yes. However, you are responsible for your own diving equipment. Please note that SEA LIFE Minnesota Aquarium is not liable for damages to your video or still camera during the dive program.