Living Islam Today
A Magazine for Muslim Americans
Vol. 1 Issue 2      Winter 1421/ 2000

Simple Journeys
IFNA

In the name of Allah, the Compassionate Source of All Mercy

Atlantis Marine World

     It's sometimes difficult to find a place where you can take the family.  A new attraction that has just opened up this last summer is the Atlantis Marine World in Riverhead Long Island, NY.  Touting itself as one of the future biggest marine world's, Atlantis Marine World in currently in the first stage of its proposed 2 acre aquarium.
     Just how great is the aquarium?  We took a little visit to the new aquarium to see just how majestic it claims to be.

     The Journey: Starting from the west side of Queens (near Sunnyside) the trip took about two hours.  We started off at around 8:30. Hours are from 9:00am to 8:00pm, Wednesdays 9:00am to 6:00pm. Anyone who is familiar with NY traffic in the morning can attest to the need to be early when you have to drive during rush hour.  The trip itself was rather easy.  The directions were very clear and you basically have to drive straight.  The parking lot is very expansive.  We found parking right next to the marine itself.

     The Price: For seniors the price is: $10.00  For adults the price is: $11.50 For children (3-11) it's: $9.00  The ride that is in the marine is two dollars.  The gift shop prices are very reasonable.  The products range from t-shirts and rubber sharks to books and coffee mugs.

Admissions
Adults =                  $11.50 = tax
Seniors = (62+)       $10.00 = tax
Children = (3-11)    $ 9.00
under 3 =                free
     Discounted rates are available for groups of 15 or more to Atlantis Marine World. Advance registration is required. Group reservations are only accepted for weekdays
Adults =                   $10.00
Seniors = (62 +)       $9.00
Children = (3-11)    $ 8.25

The Experience: 
     Upon arriving the first thing you notice is a large 15 foot model of a breaching humpback whale jumping out of the water in the front.  The facade was like that of a mountain landscape.  Juxtaposed against the homes that were surrounding the area, the setting was rather dramatic.  The next attraction is the small pool that they have set up outside.  The day that we went there were two young seals playing in the pool.  Needless to say, this drew the attention of my son very quickly.  
     The theme of the Aquarium is the Lost City of Atlantis.  As such, the motif is inclusive of buried treasure, under ground cities and the mythological god, Poseidon. The dim walkways guide you through an array of sea creatures a comfortable viewing levels for adults and children. The main feature is a 120,000 gallon shark tank.

     Children and adults can learn the importance of protecting sea life in the small exhibit that deals with conservation.

     There are a few "touch tanks" available, but the most interesting one is filled with small sharks and sting rays!

The Verdict: 
     Is the Marine World beautiful? Yes.  It's probably one of the most gorgeous places for aquatic life that you'll find on the East coast.  Is it worth the price? Unfortunately, no.  While the setting was very attractive to look at, there wasn't really that much to see.  The whole "walk through" takes roughly 20 minutes, and for the price of admission, I figured there would be a bit more to experience.

Atlantis Marine World Info:
(631) 208-9200

Located at 431 East Main Street, Riverhead, New York. 
LIE east to Exit 71 (Route 24)

 

 
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