Silvergate Media has unveiled images from the launch of the world’s biggest “Octonauts” attraction at Merlin Entertainment’s Changfeng Ocean World in Shanghai, part of the Sea Life global aquarium chain.

The new “Octonauts” experience opened its doors to the public on Dec. 28. To date, the visitor numbers to the attraction are expected to surpass 500 thousand annually.  

“What better way to bring the brand to life than a fully immersive attraction at a world-class Sea Life center,” says Ron Allen, executive vice president, commercial, Silvergate Media. “This promises to be an exciting year for the brand as we build up to the launch of ‘Octonauts: Above and Beyond’ and we’re excited that families in China now have the opportunity to step into the world of ‘Octonauts’ in this unique underwater adventure.”

The attraction offers an authentically-themed experience that will give families the opportunity to go on a real life “Octonauts” adventure in a fully submerged Octopod capsule within Merlin Entertainment’s new ‘Ray Bay’ experience at Changfeng Ocean World (Sea Life Shanghai).

Visitors to the attraction can join their favorite characters including Captain Barnacles, Kwazii and Peso, and learn about the world’s oceans and help save baby rays. They will also be able to take home a memento of their day, with a range of “Octonauts” merchandise available to buy on-site at a dedicated Sea Life gift shop.  

This new attraction comes ahead of a new content launch for “Octonauts” as new spin-off series “Octonauts: Above & Beyond” prepares to debut globally this autumn with new licensing partners soon to be announced.

The new “Octonauts” experience in Shanghai builds on the momentum of previous Sea Life partnerships with Merlin Entertainments in the U.K., Europe, Australia and the U.S., with additional new activations due to be announced.

“We are delighted to have opened the world’s biggest ‘Octonauts’ experience at Changfeng Ocean World in the fantastic new Ray Bay area, immersing families in a heroic underwater adventure with their favorite characters from the series,” says Matthew Williams, senior brand director midway, Merlin Entertainment. “‘Octonauts’ is an ideal IP for SEA LIFE with fun and discovery at its core, and we look forward to working with Silvergate to share more exciting and innovative themed ‘Octonauts’ experiences with families at our aquariums around the globe.”