Manila Ocean Park

Manila Ocean Park (MOP) is a state-of-the-art oceanarium, open water marine habitat, boutique mall, hotel, restaurant row and function facilities all located in one complex. It is located at the back of Quirino Grandstand and near Rizal Park - the most historic place in the Philippines. It is strategically located in Manila Bay - the perfect place in the Philippines for the most romantic sunset. It's just around 30 minutes away from Ninoy Aquino International Airport. It is owned by China Oceanis Philippines Inc., which also owns the Ocean Park Hong Kong.

MOP's oceanarium had its soft opening on March 01, 2008. Soon to open are the marine-themed mall and the H20 hotel, theme park, outdoor pools and restaurants. Because of it's many features aside from the oceanarium itself, it is larger than the Sentosa Underwater World oceanarium in Singapore in terms of floor space. But Sentosa's underwater acrylic tunnel which is 83 metres (270 feet) is far longer than MOP's 25 metres (82 feet).

Sections of the Oceanarium:

1. Agos (Flow) - this is a rain forest theme with an artificial waterfall that flows into different tanks displaying Philippine flora and fauna.






2. Bahura (Reef) - 46 tanks that feature the very colorful Philippine underwater rain forest. It features the life forms found in our coral reefs.






3. Laot (Fishing Ground) - Four big distinct aquariums that displays an assortment of fish in all sizes and colors.







4. Buhay na Karagatan (Living Ocean) - the heart of the oceanarium! This is a breathtaking 25 meter walk along an underwater tunnel. It provides an awesome experience of the living ocean.








5. Ang Kalaliman (The Deep) - The barracudas are here!











6. Pagi (Overhang Tank) - A variety of Pagi's or sting rays fly over you while you're under this unique overhang tank.










7. Pating (shark) - the special tank for all the predators of the sea - the sharks! The oceanarium journey ends here.







After the long walk, you will exit to the magnificent view of the historic Manila Bay. There is the Ozeano Restaurant located at the 2nd floor which brings together a variety of cuisines from around the world. A never-to-miss is the souvenir shop. What caught my eyes are the cute nemo stuffed toys in neon colors. There are also other attractions that I'm sure you want to try. After the long walk in the beautiful oceanarium, you might dip your feet in the Fish Spa where you will find a spectacular species of fish commonly known as the Doctor Fish, so named for the wonders they have know to do for people with skin related diseases. Watch as these small fish nibble away only the affected and dead areas of the skin leaving you healthy skin to glow. Another attraction is the Glass Bottom Boat Ride which offers a wonderful view of the Living Ocean. You can watch them literally swim under your feet. Another recently opened attraction is The Mermaid Show Which starts last September 15 until December 30, 2009. MOP is 1 hour away by plane from my place. I can't wait to experience the new attractions and the complete feeling once the entire complex will be fully operational. I'm sure it will be a big blast specially to the ocean lovers like me!

P.S.
Admission is so affordable. It's only P400.00 (8.4701 USD, 5.3167 GBP) for adults and P350.00 (7.4113 USD, 4.6521 GBP) for kids 4.5 feet and below. They offer big discounts for corporate events and school educational tours. MOP is open from 8:00am - 7:00pm on weekdays and from 9:00am - 8:00pm on weekends and public holidays.