MYRTLE BEACH, SC (WBTW) – Ripley’s Aquarium in Myrtle Beach just opened something you won’t find anywhere else in North America.
The first indoor glass bottom boat operating on this side of the Atlantic officially made its official maiden voyage Wednesday.
Since the Ripley’s Aquarium’s opening, millions of visitors have enjoyed watching the numerous sharks swim overhead from the safety of the 350ft long underwater tunnel winding beneath the 750k gallon Dangerous Reef tank.
Guests now have the opportunity to get in the shark tank and experience the new, indoor Glass Bottom Boat Adventure.
Only 3 inches of glass in a specially designed, 16-foot long boat, will separate visitors from the sharp-toothed predators that call Dangerous Reef home.
This new adventure will offer an exciting vantage point for guests into the Aquarium’s largest exhibit. Guests will be surrounded by colorful and dangerous marine life that inhabit Atlantic and Caribbean reefs.
Dangerous Reef is home to over 8,500 aquatic animals representing more than 75 different species.
While embarking on this immersive experience, guests will learn all about the animals within the Aquarium and what it takes to maintain the facility.
The Glass Bottom Boat will hold approximately 10 people per tour and launches about every 20 minutes.
“Ripley’s has never been known for the ordinary and only strives for the extraordinary,” said Craig Atkins, General Manager, “that’s why we are excited to introduce our Glass Bottom Boat Adventure – a totally new, innovative way to experience these amazing animals, ONLY at Ripley’s Aquarium Myrtle Beach.”
News13 was able to go out on the boat and speak with some kids who said they were inspired by being able to meet sharks face to face.
That includes 9-year-old Morgan Morris who said she wants to grow up to be a marine biologist.
“I could see the sharks, I could see the sand tiger sharks, and I could see the saw fish and I just learned that they’re related to stingrays so that was kind of cool,” said Morgan.
Ripley’s Aquarium offers locals a half price discount admission, the boat ride will be full price if you want to take a ride.