Record year for Portrush Coastal Zone as thousands discover wonders of marine life

DAERA Minister Andrew Muir recently pictured at Portrush Costal Zone with organisations including Queen's University, Ulster Wildlife and the NI Marine Taskforce.

Tuesday 20 October 2026

A record 61,315 people have visited Portrush Coastal Zone in 2026, with fascinating marine exhibits, developing shark embryos and the largest preserved thresher shark in the UK and Ireland helping to attract visitors to the popular north coast attraction.

The figures, released by the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (DAERA), highlight a successful year for the centre, which gives families, schoolchildren and visitors an opportunity to discover the remarkable marine life found in Northern Ireland's coastal waters.

Alongside its interactive exhibits, the centre welcomed 1,310 participants through educational activities involving 37 school and community group visits.

Shark embryos among visitor highlights

One of the standout attractions this season has been the development of small-spotted catshark egg cases within the centre's aquaria.

Visitors were given a rare opportunity to watch shark embryos developing up close, offering a fascinating insight into the life cycle of a species commonly found in Northern Ireland's waters.

The centre also introduced updated exhibits, improved information panels and an immersive marine wildlife video produced by the Irish Whale and Dolphin Group.

Another major attraction was the display of the largest preserved thresher shark in the UK and Ireland, giving visitors an opportunity to appreciate one of the ocean's most distinctive shark species.

Growing interest in marine conservation

DAERA Minister Andrew Muir welcomed the record visitor numbers, highlighting the centre's contribution to environmental education and public awareness.

He said:

"The continued success of Portrush Coastal Zone demonstrates the growing appetite for learning about our marine environment. Through its educational programmes, exhibits and outreach work, the centre is helping people of all ages better understand and appreciate Northern Ireland's rich marine heritage."

The centre also played host to the launch of the Northern Ireland Elasmobranch Conservation Strategy 2026-2035, which outlines a shared approach to protecting sharks, skates and rays in local waters over the coming decade.

Mr Muir added:

"I was delighted to launch the Northern Ireland Elasmobranch Conservation Strategy at the centre earlier this year. Sharks, skates and rays are an important part of our natural heritage and play a vital role in maintaining healthy, resilient marine ecosystems. By working together, we can improve our understanding, strengthen protection for the habitats they rely on, and help secure a better future for these remarkable species in Northern Ireland waters."

Taking marine education beyond Portrush

The Coastal Zone team also extended its educational work into communities across Northern Ireland during 2026.

Activities included supporting an Inclusive Biodiversity Day, delivering marine awareness training for beach wardens and working with partner organisations to raise awareness of marine conservation.

Owned and operated by DAERA's Marine and Fisheries Division, Portrush Coastal Zone combines public education with opportunities to experience and learn about the wildlife inhabiting Northern Ireland's seas.

With more than 61,000 visits recorded this year, the centre's latest milestone reflects the appeal of bringing marine conservation to life through hands-on learning and close encounters with species that many people would otherwise never have the chance to see.