When I spotted a visit to Seahorse World on our Tasmanian itinerary I wondered how on earth an attraction could be centred around the humble seahorse. Don’t get me wrong, I think they are the perfect addition to any aquarium’s line-up but I was a little cynical about the seahorse being the main attraction. My mother on the other hand, was convinced it would be a highlight. Clearly, I should know better than to doubt my mother’s wisdom. Seahorse World was in fact an unexpected delight, and the best bit, it is an accessible attraction too.
Seahorse World Tasmania
Seahorse World is only a 45 minute drive from Launceston so it made for an easy day trip. This was one of three attractions we visited in one day. We combined our visit to Seahorse World with Platypus House and Beaconsfield Mine and Heritage Centre. We can recommend all three for accessibility, entertainment and a good side order of education.
I now joke that I’m the gal to have on your trivia table if the topic of seahorses should be in the mix. I was fascinated to learn that male seahorses are the ones to get pregnant – how very progressive! The female seahorses do an elaborate dance to court the males before transferring the mature eggs to the males waiting with their pouch ready to catch the eggs. The description sounded like some kind of sideshow alley game but judging by the tanks teeming with seahorses of varying ages, the males are pretty good at it.
The gestation period is only between two to four weeks so let’s not get too carried away with calling the male seahorse a hero. They do however excel at multiple births producing up to 1000 baby seahorses.
The guided tour of Seahorse World is suitable for all ages. Those less enamoured by seahorse facts are sure to be engaged by watching the fascinating creatures as they elegantly propel through the water by fluttering their dorsal fin.
Viewing of the tanks is at a good height for toddlers, adults and wheelchair users alike.
And while the seahorses are the stars of the show, there are a few residents that claim to be the world’s rarest fish. Researchers estimate that there are only about 100 Red handfish adults left in the wild and Seahorse World is the only tourist attraction in the world where you can get up close to see both the Red and Spotted handfish. By purchasing an entry ticket to Seahorse World, visitors are directly contributing to the conservation of these rare fish.
The informative tour is 50 minutes long and seemed to keep the attention of even the smallest of participants in our group.
Accessibility throughout Seahorse World is excellent with a step-free entrance, a level walk throughout the rooms and seating provided at various points for those that need it. Accessible parking bays are available next to the entrance and the Australian Companion Card is accepted. A stand-alone unisex accessible bathroom is also available at the attraction.
Braeden had good viewing throughout the experience and we left with a greater appreciation for seahorses. If you’d like to research your visit further, check the Seahorse World website.Â
Wondering where we stayed in Launceston? We had excellent accessible accommodation at the Hotel Verge. Read our review to learn more.
