You are on Opening Hours. Skip to the next section.

Opening Hours

• For information about the opening hours please click here.
• Standard Opening Hours: Open Daily 10:00 – 17:00 Last entry is at 16:00 Holiday Opening Hours: During peak periods the venue is open from 09:30 – 17:00 Last entry is at 16:00.

You are on Getting Here. Skip to the next section.

Getting Here

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• By Road View
  • Access to the aquarium is via the A374 Exeter Road and then Lockyears Quay, Commercial Road and then Sutton Road. The A374 has direct links to Plymouth City centre to the west and towards A38 to the north east.
  • The nearest car park is Harbour Car Park, PL4 0DX, on Lockyear Quay approximately 320 metres (0.2 miles) from the aquarium. There are Blue Badge and standard parking bays available.
• By Bus View
  • There is not a bus stop within 150 metres of the venue.
  • The nearest bus stop is approximately 485 metres away on Commercial Road. There are direct buses available towards Plymouth City Centre and Wembury.
  • For more information on Plymouth Bus please click here (opens new tab).
• By Train View
  • The nearest Railway Station is Plymouth.
  • The nearest step-free Railway Station is Plymouth.
  • The station is approximately 1.2 miles away with direct links to Edinburgh, Penzance and London Paddington.
  • For more information on Cross Country Trains please click here (opens new tab).
  • For more information on Great Western Railway please click here (opens new tab).

You are on Getting Help and Assistance. Skip to the next section.

Getting Help and Assistance

• There is a member of staff available for help and assistance.
• There is not a member of staff trained in British Sign Language.
• British Sign Language interpreters cannot be provided on request.
• The alternative formats documents can be provided in include: audio.
• There is not an assistance dog toilet or toileting area at the venue/nearby.
• Water bowls for assistance dogs are available.
• There are mobility aids available.
• The mobility aids available include wheelchairs.
• To obtain mobility aids please contact reception.
• There is not a designated place of safety which can be used by people who may feel scared or at risk.
• Audio formats of exhibitions can be collected at reception.

You are on Public Parking. Skip to the next section.

Public Parking

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• Public Car Park View
  • The public car park is located on Lockyears Quay, approximately 320 metres away from the venue.
  • The name of the car park is Harbour Car Park.
  • There is a/are Blue Badge parking bay(s) available within the car park.
• Drop-off Point(s) View
  • There is not a/are not clearly marked drop-off point(s).

You are on Approach (Main Entrance, Ocean Gifts and Main Exit). Skip to the next section.

Approach (Main Entrance, Ocean Gifts and Main Exit)

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• Approach View
  • The surface of the approach is block paving.
• Ramp/Slope View
  • There is a ramp/slope on the approach.
  • The ramp/slope is permanent, has a steep gradient and has a handrail on the right going up.
  • There is a level landing at the top of the ramp/slope.
  • The ramp does not have resting areas.
  • The ramp/slope does bypass the step(s).
• Step(s) View
  • There is a/are step(s) on the approach.
  • There is/are 8 clearly marked step(s), with a handrail on the left going up.
  • Handrails are at the recommended height (90cm-100cm).
  • Handrails do cover the flight of stairs throughout its length.
  • Handrails are easy to grip.
  • Handrails do not extend horizontally beyond the first and last steps.
  • The height of the step(s) is/are between the recommended 15cm and 18cm.
  • The depth of the step(s) is/are between the recommended 30cm and 45cm.

You are on Outside Access (Main Entrance). Skip to the next section.

Outside Access (Main Entrance)

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• Entrance View
  • This information is for the entrance located at the front of the building, to the left as you exit the ramp.
  • The entrance area/door is clearly signed.
  • This entrance is signed with 'Day Tickets, Fast Track and Membership'.
  • There is step-free access at this entrance.
  • There is a canopy or recess which provides weather protection at this entrance.
  • There is a dark mat or floor marking at this entrance that might be perceived as a hole.
  • The entrance door(s) does not/do not contrast visually with its immediate surroundings.
  • The main door(s) open(s) automatically (towards you).
  • The main automatic door(s) is/are push pad or push button activated.
  • The push pad or push button is 78cm from floor level.
  • The door(s) is/are single width.
  • The width of the opening is 104cm.
  • There is a small lip on the threshold of the entrance, with a height of 2cm or below.
  • There is a member of staff available for assistance at this entrance.
  • There are 2 identical entrances to the venue situated next to each other.

You are on Outside Access (Ocean Gifts and Main Exit). Skip to the next section.

Outside Access (Ocean Gifts and Main Exit)

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• Entrance View
  • This information is for the entrance located to the front left of the building.
  • The entrance area/door is clearly signed.
  • This entrance is signed with 'Ocean Gifts'.
  • There is step-free access at this entrance.
  • There is a canopy or recess which provides weather protection at this entrance.
  • There is a dark mat or floor marking at this entrance that might be perceived as a hole.
  • The entrance door(s) does not/do not contrast visually with its immediate surroundings.
  • The main door(s) open(s) towards you (pull).
  • The door(s) is/are double width.
  • The door(s) may be difficult to open.
  • The width of the opening is 136cm.
  • There is a small lip on the threshold of the entrance, with a height of 2cm or below.
  • This is also used as the main exit.
• Comments View
  • There is an identical set of doors next to the doors surveyed.

You are on Reception (Main Reception). Skip to the next section.

Reception (Main Reception)

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• Reception View
  • The reception point is located ahead as you enter from main entrance.
  • The reception point is approximately 3m (3yd 10in) from the main entrance.
  • The reception area/desk is clearly visible from the entrance.
  • There is step-free access to the reception point.
  • There is a clear unobstructed route to the reception point.
  • There are no windows, TVs, glazed screens or mirrors behind the reception point which could adversely affect the ability of someone to lip read.
  • The counter is placed in front of a plain background.
  • The lighting levels at the reception point are moderate to good.
  • The height of the reception counter is 115cm.
  • There is sufficient space to write or sign documents on the counter.
  • There is a lowered section of the counter.
  • The height of the lowered section at the counter is 80cm.
  • There is sufficient space to write or sign documents on the lowered section of the counter.
  • There is not a clear knee recess beneath the low/lowered section of the counter.
  • The counter is staffed.
  • There is not a hearing assistance system at the reception point.
  • Signs and universally accepted symbols or pictograms, indicating lifts, stairs, WCs, circulation routes and other parts of the building are provided in the reception area.
  • Music is played everywhere.
  • The type of flooring in the reception area is carpet and laminate.
  • There is some flooring which is shiny and could cause issues with glare or look slippery to some people.
• Reception Seating Area View
  • There is not a seating area close to the reception point.

You are on Shop (Ocean Gifts). Skip to the next section.

Shop (Ocean Gifts)

• The majority of aisle widths are 150cm+.
• The type of flooring is wood.
• There is some flooring which is shiny and could cause issues with glare or look slippery to some people.
• There is poor colour contrast between the walls and floor in the majority of walkways.
• The lighting levels are moderate to good.
• Music is played everywhere.
• The till(s) is/are located to right as you enter.
• There is step-free access to the till(s).
• There is a clear unobstructed route to the till(s).
• The till(s) is/are clearly signed.
• There are no windows, TVs, glazed screens or mirrors at/behind the till(s).
• The till(s) is not/are not placed in front of a plain background.
• The lighting levels at the till(s) are moderate to good.
• The chip & pin card machines are accessible from the till(s).
• The height of the till(s) is/are 115cm.
• There is a lowered section at the till(s).
• The height of the lowered section is 80cm.
• There is not a clear knee recess beneath the lowered section of the till(s).
• There is not a hearing assistance system at the till(s).

You are on Getting Around. Skip to the next section.

Getting Around

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• Access View
  • There is step-free access throughout the building via lift(s).
  • There is a steep ramp, with a handrail on the left going down, for access to British Coasts.
  • There is a level landing at the top of the ramp/slope.
  • The ramp does not have resting areas.
  • The lighting levels at the ramp/slope are adjustable.
  • There is a steep ramp, with a handrail on the left going down, for access to Seagrass Walk.
  • There is a level landing at the top of the ramp/slope.
  • 2/ The ramp does not have resting areas.
  • The lighting levels at the ramp/slope are adjustable.
  • There is a steep ramp, with a handrail on the left going down, for access to Eddystone Reef.
  • There is a level landing at the top of the ramp/slope.
  • The ramp does not have resting areas.
• Circulation View
  • There are not doors in corridors/walkways which have to be opened manually.
  • The type of flooring in corridors/walkways is carpet, wood and laminate.
  • There is some flooring in corridors/walkways which is shiny and could cause issues with glare or look slippery to some people.
  • Handrails with a rounded or oval profile are provided in some corridors/walkways.
  • There is good colour contrast between the walls and floor in the majority of corridors/walkways.
  • There is bench seating and also a mixture of single seats with and without armrests at regular intervals.
  • The lighting levels are varied.
  • Access to other floors/levels is via stairs and lift.
• Signage View
  • Wayfinding signage is provided.
  • The colour, design and typeface of signs is consistent throughout the building.
  • Dementia friendly signage is not provided.
• Safe Place(s) View
  • There is not a designated place of safety which can be used by people with dementia, autism or learning disabilities.
• Audio View
  • This venue does play background music in public areas.
  • Music is played throughout the venue.
  • There is not a hearing assistance system in the public areas of the building.

You are on Attraction / Exhibit (Plymouth Sound). Skip to the next section.

Attraction / Exhibit (Plymouth Sound)

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• Entrance / Opening View
  • There are no doors, however there is an open width of 75cm+ for access to this area/attraction.
  • The entrance/opening is clearly signed.
  • The entrance door(s) does/do contrast visually with its immediate surroundings.
  • There is step-free access at this entrance/opening.
  • The exhibit has a constant steep slope that follows into the next exhibit.
• Attraction / Exhibit View
  • There is not step-free level access throughout this area.
  • Clear directional signage is provided in this area.
  • During busy periods this area can become congested.
  • The type of flooring in this area is laminate.
  • Handrails with a rounded or oval profile are not provided in this area.
  • This area does play background music/sound.
  • Guests may get wet in this area.
  • There are resting/seating areas within this area.
  • Explanations for the exhibit(s) is/are in pictorial, information board and television/screen format.
  • Some exhibits can be audio described.
  • Exhibits are audio described in person.
  • There are no exhibits which start from the floor level.
  • The distance between the lowest exhibit and the floor is 76cm.
  • Visitors cannot handle/touch marine life in this area.
  • There is a good colour contrast between some walls and the floor in this area.
  • The lighting levels in this area are varied.
• Exit View
  • Visitors exit via a separate set of doors/opening.
  • The exit is clearly signed internally.
  • There are no doors, however there is an open width of 75cm+ when exiting this area/attraction.
  • The exit is ramped/sloped.
  • There is a slight permanent ramp, with no handrails, when exiting.
  • The ramp does not have resting areas.
  • The lighting levels at the ramp/slope are adjustable.

You are on Attraction / Exhibit (British Coasts). Skip to the next section.

Attraction / Exhibit (British Coasts)

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• Entrance / Opening View
  • There are no doors, however there is an open width of 75cm+ for access to this area/attraction.
  • The entrance/opening is clearly signed.
  • The entrance door(s) does/do contrast visually with its immediate surroundings.
  • There is ramped/sloped access at this entrance/opening.
  • The exhibit has a constant steep slope that follows into the next exhibit.
  • There is a steep permanent ramp, with a handrail on the right going down, for access to British Coasts.
  • The ramp has resting areas.
  • The lighting levels at the ramp/slope are adjustable.
• Attraction / Exhibit View
  • There is not step-free level access throughout this area.
  • Clear directional signage is provided in this area.
  • During busy periods this area can become congested.
  • The type of flooring in this area is carpet.
  • Handrails with a rounded or oval profile are provided in some areas.
  • This area does play background music/sound.
  • There are resting/seating areas within this area.
  • Explanations for the exhibit(s) is/are in pictorial, information board and television/screen format.
  • Some exhibits can be audio described.
  • Exhibits are audio described in person.
  • There are no exhibits which start from the floor level.
  • The distance between the lowest exhibit and the floor is 60cm.
  • Visitors cannot handle/touch marine life in this area.
  • There is a good colour contrast between some walls and the floor in this area.
  • The lighting levels in this area are varied.
• Exit View
  • Visitors exit via a separate set of doors/opening.
  • The exit is clearly signed internally.
  • There are no doors, however there is an open width of 75cm+ when exiting this area/attraction.
  • The exit is ramped/sloped.
  • There is a steep permanent ramp, with no handrails, when exiting.
  • The ramp does not have resting areas.
  • The lighting levels at the ramp/slope are adjustable.

You are on Attraction / Exhibit (Seagrass Walk). Skip to the next section.

Attraction / Exhibit (Seagrass Walk)

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• Entrance / Opening View
  • There are no doors, however there is an open width of 75cm+ for access to this area/attraction.
  • The entrance/opening is clearly signed.
  • There is ramped/sloped access at this entrance/opening.
  • The exhibit has a constant steep slope that follows into the next exhibit.
  • There is a steep permanent ramp, with a handrail on the right going down, for access to Seagrass Walk.
  • There is a level landing at the top of the ramp/slope.
  • The lighting levels at the ramp/slope are adjustable.
• Attraction / Exhibit View
  • There is not step-free level access throughout this area.
  • Clear directional signage is provided in this area.
  • During busy periods this area can become congested.
  • The type of flooring in this area is laminate.
  • Handrails with a rounded or oval profile are provided in some areas.
  • This area does play background music/sound.
  • There are not resting/seating areas within this area.
  • Explanations for the exhibit(s) is/are in pictorial, information board and television/screen format.
  • Some exhibits can be audio described.
  • Exhibits are audio described in person.
  • There are no exhibits which start from the floor level.
  • The distance between the lowest exhibit and the floor is 40cm.
  • Visitors cannot handle/touch marine life in this area.
• Exit View
  • Visitors exit via a separate set of doors/opening.
  • The exit is clearly signed internally.
  • There are no doors, however there is an open width of 75cm+ when exiting this area/attraction.
  • The exit is ramped/sloped.
  • There is a steep permanent ramp, with no handrails, when exiting.
  • There is a level landing at the top of the ramp/slope.
  • The lighting levels at the ramp/slope are adjustable.

You are on Level Change (Sea'cret Garden Playground and Snack Shack Picnic Area). Skip to the next section.

Level Change (Sea'cret Garden Playground and Snack Shack Picnic Area)

• There is a ramp/slope to access this area/service.
• The ramp/slope does bypass the step(s).
• The ramp/slope is located right from the entrance.
• The ramp/slope is permanent.
• There is a level landing at the top of the ramp/slope.
• The ramp does have handrails.
• The handrails are on both sides.
• There is a/are step(s) to access this area/service.
• The step(s) is/are located left from the entrance.
• There is/are 7 step(s) to the area/service.
• The step(s) is/are not clearly marked.
• There is not tactile paving at the top and bottom of the steps.
• The step(s) is/are medium height (11cm - 17cm).
• There is a/are handrail(s) at the step(s).
• The handrail(s) is/are on both sides.

You are on Outdoor Facilities (Sea'cret Garden Playground). Skip to the next section.

Outdoor Facilities (Sea'cret Garden Playground)

• The following outdoor facilities are available: a playground with play equipment and a playground.
• The routes to the outdoor facilities are not at least 150cm wide.
• Routes to the outdoor facilities are uneven due to the natural landscape.
• Surfaces for the facilities include: concrete or tarmac.
• The entrance to the fenced area is not over 100cm wide.
• There is a route around the play equipment which is not firm and even, but is over 150cm wide.
• The play equipment is in easy reach for seated and standing users, and users of different heights.
• The following accessible play experiences are available: sliding.
• At the time of survey, the playground was in use and could not be surveyed.

You are on Eating and Drinking (Sea'cret Garden Snack Shack Picnic Area). Skip to the next section.

Eating and Drinking (Sea'cret Garden Snack Shack Picnic Area)

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• Location and Access View
  • The following information is for the self-service area.
  • The self-service area is located at the exit to Seagrass Walk.
  • For access there are double manual doors which may be difficult to open.
• Service and Menus View
  • This is a picnic area.
  • This area does not play background music.
• Tables and Seating View
  • There is ample room for a wheelchair user to manoeuvre.
  • In this area there are picnic tables with fixed seating.
  • The type of flooring in this area is concrete and block paving.
  • The distance between the floor and the underside of the picnic tables is 73cm. The picnic benches are not fixed to the ground.

You are on Attraction / Exhibit (Eddystone Reef). Skip to the next section.

Attraction / Exhibit (Eddystone Reef)

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• Entrance / Opening View
  • There are no doors, however there is an open width of 75cm+ for access to this area/attraction.
  • The entrance/opening is clearly signed.
  • There is ramped/sloped access at this entrance/opening.
  • There is a steep permanent ramp, with a handrail on the left going down, for access to Eddystone Reef.
  • The lighting levels at the ramp/slope are adjustable.
• Attraction / Exhibit View
  • There is step-free level access throughout this area.
  • Clear directional signage is provided in this area.
  • During busy periods this area can become congested.
  • The type of flooring in this area is wood.
  • There is flooring which is shiny and could cause issues with glare or look slippery to some people.
  • Handrails with a rounded or oval profile are not provided in this area.
  • This area does play background music/sound.
  • There are resting/seating areas within this area.
  • Explanations for the exhibit(s) is/are in pictorial, information board and television/screen format.
  • Some exhibits can be audio described.
  • Exhibits are audio described in person.
  • There are no exhibits which start from the floor level.
  • The distance between the lowest exhibit and the floor is 79cm.
  • Visitors cannot handle/touch marine life in this area.
  • Seating without armrests is available in the centre of the exhibit area.
  • There is a good colour contrast between some walls and the floor in this area.
  • The lighting levels in this area are varied.
• Exit View
  • Visitors can exit via a separate set of doors/opening.
  • The exit is clearly signed internally.
  • There are no doors, however there is an open width of 75cm+ when exiting this area/attraction.
  • The exit is step-free.

You are on Attraction / Exhibit (Ocean Drifters). Skip to the next section.

Attraction / Exhibit (Ocean Drifters)

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• Entrance / Opening View
  • There are no doors, however there is an open width of 75cm+ for access to this area/attraction.
  • The entrance/opening is clearly signed.
  • There is step-free access at this entrance/opening.
• Attraction / Exhibit View
  • There is step-free level access throughout this area.
  • Clear directional signage is provided in this area.
  • During busy periods this area can become congested.
  • The type of flooring in this area is laminate.
  • Handrails with a rounded or oval profile are not provided in this area.
  • This area does play background music/sound.
  • There are not resting/seating areas within this area.
  • Explanations for the exhibit(s) is/are in pictorial and information board format.
  • Some exhibits can be audio described.
  • Exhibits are audio described in person.
  • There are no exhibits which start from the floor level.
  • The distance between the lowest exhibit and the floor is 92cm.
  • Visitors cannot handle/touch marine life in this area.
  • There is a good colour contrast between some walls and the floor in this area.
  • The lighting levels in this area are varied.
• Exit View
  • Visitors exit via a separate set of doors/opening.
  • The exit is clearly signed internally.
  • There are no doors, however there is an open width of 75cm+ when exiting this area/attraction.
  • The exit is step-free, via lift.
  • There is/are 10+ unmarked step(s), with handrails on both sides, when exiting.
  • Handrails are at the recommended height (90cm-100cm).
  • Handrails do cover the flight of stairs throughout its length.
  • Handrails are easy to grip.
  • Handrails do extend horizontally beyond the first and last steps.
  • The height of the step(s) is/are between the recommended 15cm and 18cm.
  • The height of the step(s) is/are 16cm.
  • The depth of the step(s) is/are between the recommended 30cm and 45cm.
  • The lighting levels at the step(s) are adjustable.
  • There is a standard lift to overcome the step(s).

You are on Lift (Atlantic Ocean). Skip to the next section.

Lift (Atlantic Ocean)

• There is a lift for public use.
• The lift is located at the entrance to the Atlantic Ocean exhibit.
• The lift is clearly visible from the entrance.
• The lift is approximately 2m (2yd 7in) from the Atlantic Ocean exhibit entrance.
• The lift is a standard lift.
• A member of staff does not need to be notified for use of the lift.
• The floors which are accessible by this lift are the Atlantic Ocean exhibit.
• Clear signs indicating the facilities on each floor are not provided on lift lobby landings.
• There is a clear level manoeuvring space of 150cm × 150cm in front of the lift.
• Lift doors do contrast visually with lift lobby walls.
• The external controls for the lift are within 90cm - 110cm from the floor.
• The colour contrast between the external lift controls and the control plate is good.
• The colour contrast between the external lift control plate and the wall is fair.
• The clear door width is 90cm (2ft 11in).
• The dimensions of the lift are 106cm x 222cm (3ft 6in x 7ft 3in).
• There are separate entry and exit doors in the lift.
• There is not a mirror to aid reversing out of the lift.
• There is a list of floor services available within the lift.
• The lift does have a visual floor indicator.
• The lift does not have an audible announcer.
• The internal controls for the lift are within 90cm - 120cm from the floor.
• There is not a hearing loop system.
• The lift does not have Braille markings.
• The lift does not have tactile markings.
• The lighting levels in the lift are moderate to good.

You are on Other Floors (Atlantic Ocean). Skip to the next section.

Other Floors (Atlantic Ocean)

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• Stairs View
  • Stairs can be used to access other floors.
  • The stairs are for public use.
  • The stairs are located on the entrance to the Atlantic Ocean exhibit.
  • The stairs are approximately 2m from the from the Atlantic Ocean entrance.
  • The stairs are clearly visible from the entrance.
  • The floors which are accessible by stairs are the Atlantic Ocean exhibit.
  • There are 15+ steps between floors.
  • The height of the step(s) is/are between the recommended 15cm and 18cm.
  • The depth of the step(s) is/are between the recommended 30cm and 45cm.
  • The steps are not clearly marked.
  • There is a/are handrail(s) at the step(s).
  • The steps have a handrail on both sides.
  • Handrails are at the recommended height (90cm-100cm).
  • Handrails do cover the flight of stairs throughout its length.
  • Handrails are easy to grip.
  • Handrails do not extend horizontally beyond the first and last steps.
  • There is a landing.
  • Clear signs indicating the facilities on each floor are not provided on landings.
  • The lighting levels at the steps are varied.

You are on Attraction / Exhibit (Atlantic Ocean). Skip to the next section.

Attraction / Exhibit (Atlantic Ocean)

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• Entrance / Opening View
  • There are no doors, however there is an open width of 75cm+ for access to this area/attraction.
  • The entrance/opening is clearly signed.
  • There is step-free access at this entrance/opening, via lift.
  • There is/are 10+ clearly marked step(s), with handrails on both sides, for access to Atlantic Ocean.
  • Handrails are at the recommended height (90cm-100cm).
  • Handrails do cover the flight of stairs throughout its length.
  • Handrails are easy to grip.
  • Handrails do extend horizontally beyond the first and last steps.
  • The height of the step(s) is/are between the recommended 15cm and 18cm.
  • The height of the step(s) is/are 16cm.
  • The depth of the step(s) is/are between the recommended 30cm and 45cm.
  • The lighting levels at the step(s) are adjustable.
  • There is a standard lift to overcome the step(s).
• Attraction / Exhibit View
  • There is step-free level access throughout this area.
  • Clear directional signage is provided in this area.
  • During busy periods this area can become congested.
  • The type of flooring in this area is laminate.
  • Handrails with a rounded or oval profile are provided in some areas.
  • This area does play background music/sound.
  • There are resting/seating areas within this area.
  • Explanations for the exhibit(s) is/are in pictorial, information board and television/screen format.
  • Some exhibits can be audio described.
  • Exhibits are audio described in person.
  • There are some exhibits which start from the floor level.
  • Visitors cannot handle/touch marine life in this area.
• Exit View
  • Visitors exit via the entrance/opening.

You are on Attraction / Exhibit (Blue Planet). Skip to the next section.

Attraction / Exhibit (Blue Planet)

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• Entrance / Opening View
  • There are no doors, however there is an open width of 75cm+ for access to this area/attraction.
  • The entrance/opening is clearly signed.
  • There is ramped/sloped access at this entrance/opening.
  • The exhibit has a constant steep slope that follows into the next exhibit.
  • There is a steep permanent ramp, with no handrails, for access to Blue Planet.
  • There is not a level landing at the top of the ramp/slope.
  • The ramp does not have resting areas.
  • The lighting levels at the ramp/slope are adjustable.
• Attraction / Exhibit View
  • There is not step-free level access throughout this area.
  • Clear directional signage is provided in this area.
  • During busy periods this area can become congested.
  • The type of flooring in this area is carpet.
  • Handrails with a rounded or oval profile are not provided in this area.
  • This area does play background music/sound.
  • There are not resting/seating areas within this area.
  • Explanations for the exhibit(s) is/are in pictorial format.
  • Some exhibits can be audio described.
  • Exhibits are audio described in person.
  • There are some exhibits which start from the floor level.
  • Visitors cannot handle/touch marine life in this area.
  • There is a poor colour contrast between the walls and the floor in this area.
  • The lighting levels in this area are varied.
• Exit View
  • Visitors exit via a separate set of doors/opening.
  • The exit is clearly signed internally.
  • There are no doors, however there is an open width of 75cm+ when exiting this area/attraction.
  • The exit is ramped/sloped.
  • There is a steep permanent ramp, with no handrails, when exiting.
  • There is a level landing at the top of the ramp/slope.
  • The ramp does not have resting areas.
  • The lighting levels at the ramp/slope are adjustable.

You are on Attraction / Exhibit (Biozone). Skip to the next section.

Attraction / Exhibit (Biozone)

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• Entrance / Opening View
  • There are no doors, however there is an open width of 75cm+ for access to this area/attraction.
  • The entrance/opening is clearly signed.
  • There is step-free access at this entrance/opening.
  • Image 2 shows a step to stand on to gain a higher viewing point if required.
• Attraction / Exhibit View
  • There is step-free level access throughout this area.
  • Clear directional signage is provided in this area.
  • During busy periods this area can become congested.
  • The type of flooring in this area is laminate.
  • Handrails with a rounded or oval profile are provided in some areas.
  • This area does play background music/sound.
  • There are not resting/seating areas within this area.
  • Explanations for the exhibit(s) is/are in pictorial and information board format.
  • Some exhibits can be audio described.
  • Exhibits are audio described in person.
  • There are no exhibits which start from the floor level.
  • The distance between the lowest exhibit and the floor is 97cm.
  • Visitors cannot handle/touch marine life in this area.
• Exit View
  • Visitors can exit via a separate set of doors/opening.
  • The exit is clearly signed internally.
  • There are no doors, however there is an open width of 75cm+ when exiting this area/attraction.
  • The exit is ramped/sloped.
  • There is a steep permanent ramp, with handrails on both sides, when exiting.
  • There is not a level landing at the top of the ramp/slope.
  • The ramp does not have resting areas.
  • The lighting levels at the ramp/slope are adjustable.

You are on Attraction / Exhibit (Great Barrier Reef). Skip to the next section.

Attraction / Exhibit (Great Barrier Reef)

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• Entrance / Opening View
  • There are no doors, however there is an open width of 75cm+ for access to this area/attraction.
  • The entrance/opening is clearly signed.
  • There is ramped/sloped access at this entrance/opening.
  • There is a steep permanent ramp, with handrails on both sides, for access to Great Barrier Reef.
  • The ramp does not have resting areas.
  • The lighting levels at the ramp/slope are adjustable.
• Attraction / Exhibit View
  • There is not step-free level access throughout this area.
  • There is ramped/stepped access to the seating area of the exhibit.
  • During busy periods this area can become congested.
  • The type of flooring in this area is carpet.
  • Handrails with a rounded or oval profile are not provided in this area.
  • This area does play background music/sound.
  • There are resting/seating areas within this area.
  • Explanations for the exhibit(s) is/are in information board format.
  • Some exhibits can be audio described.
  • Exhibits are audio described in person.
  • All exhibits start from the floor level.
  • Visitors cannot handle/touch marine life in this area.
  • Image three shows the stepped seating area.
  • There is a good colour contrast between some walls and the floor in this area.
  • The lighting levels in this area are varied.
• Exit View
  • Visitors exit via a separate set of doors/opening.
  • The exit is clearly signed internally.
  • There are no doors, however there is an open width of 75cm+ when exiting this area/attraction.
  • The exit is step-free.

You are on Attraction / Exhibit (Children's Soft Play Area). Skip to the next section.

Attraction / Exhibit (Children's Soft Play Area)

• This area was closed at time of survey.

You are on Other Floors (Main Stairs). Skip to the next section.

Other Floors (Main Stairs)

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• Stairs View
  • Stairs can be used to access other floors.
  • The stairs are for public use.
  • The stairs are located in the café.
  • The stairs are approximately 37m from the from the main entrance.
  • Signs indicating the location of the stairs are not available from the entrance.
  • The floors which are accessible by stairs are G, 1, 2.
  • There are 15+ steps between floors.
  • The height of the step(s) is/are between the recommended 15cm and 18cm.
  • The depth of the step(s) is/are between the recommended 30cm and 45cm.
  • The steps are clearly marked.
  • There is a/are handrail(s) at the step(s).
  • The steps have a handrail on both sides.
  • Handrails are at the recommended height (90cm-100cm).
  • Handrails do cover the flight of stairs throughout its length.
  • Handrails are easy to grip.
  • Handrails do not extend horizontally beyond the first and last steps.
  • There is a landing.
  • Clear signs indicating the facilities on each floor are not provided on landings.
  • The lighting levels at the steps are good.

You are on Lift (Main Lift). Skip to the next section.

Lift (Main Lift)

• There is a lift for public use.
• The lift is located in the café.
• Signs indicating the location of the lift are not available from the entrance.
• The lift is approximately 35m (38yd 10in) from the main entrance.
• The lift is a standard lift.
• A member of staff does not need to be notified for use of the lift.
• The floors which are accessible by this lift are G, 1, 2, 3.
• Clear signs indicating the facilities on each floor are not provided on lift lobby landings.
• There is a clear level manoeuvring space of 150cm × 150cm in front of the lift.
• Lift doors do contrast visually with lift lobby walls.
• The external controls for the lift are within 90cm - 110cm from the floor.
• The colour contrast between the external lift controls and the control plate is fair.
• The colour contrast between the external lift control plate and the wall is poor.
• The clear door width is 79cm (2ft 7in).
• The dimensions of the lift are 106cm x 145cm (3ft 6in x 4ft 9in).
• There are separate entry and exit doors in the lift.
• There is not a mirror to aid reversing out of the lift.
• There is not a list of floor services available within the lift.
• The lift does have a visual floor indicator.
• The lift does not have an audible announcer.
• The internal controls for the lift are within 90cm - 120cm from the floor.
• There is not a hearing loop system.
• The lift does not have Braille markings.
• The lift does have tactile markings.
• The lighting levels in the lift are low to moderate.

You are on Eating and Drinking (Waves Café). Skip to the next section.

Eating and Drinking (Waves Café)

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• Location and Access View
  • The following information is for the café.
  • The café is located on the 1st floor.
  • There is ramped/sloped access to the café.
• Service and Menus View
  • Tables cannot be booked in advance.
  • There is a bar where food and drink can be ordered.
  • Staff can bring food and/or drinks to tables.
  • Menu types include: handheld menus.
  • Menus are clearly written.
  • Menus are presented in contrasting colours.
  • Staff can read menus to customers if requested.
  • The type of food served here is hot and cold meals and snacks.
  • Plastic/takeaway cups are not available.
  • Adapted cups are not available.
  • Adapted cutlery is not available.
  • Drinking straws are available.
  • This area does play background music.
  • Background music is played at all times.
  • There is not a hearing assistance system .
• Service Counter(s) View
  • The height of the counter is 83cm.
  • The height of the tray counter/rail is 80cm.
  • There is a moveable card machine available for payment.
  • The type of flooring in this area is wood.
• Tables and Seating View
  • There is ample room for a wheelchair user to manoeuvre.
  • The majority of tables are accessible to wheelchair users.
  • The standard height for the underside of dining tables is 73cm.
  • No tables are permanently fixed.
  • No chairs are permanently fixed.
  • No chairs have armrests on both sides.
  • The type of flooring in this area is wood.
  • There is some flooring which is shiny and could cause issues with glare or look slippery to some people.
  • The lighting levels are good.

You are on Accessible Toilet(s) (Waves Café - Right Hand Transfer). Skip to the next section.

Accessible Toilet(s) (Waves Café - Right Hand Transfer)

• There is an/are accessible toilet(s) available.

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• Location and Access View
  • This accessible toilet is located in the cafe.
  • This accessible toilet is approximately 5m (5yd 1ft) from the Wave Café entrance.
  • There is step-free access into the accessible toilet.
  • This is a shared toilet.
  • A key is not required for the accessible toilet.
  • There is pictorial and written text signage on or near the toilet door.
  • The contrast between the external door and wall is good.
  • The door opens by sliding (Bi-Fold).
  • The door may be difficult to open.
  • The door is locked by a locking handle.
  • The width of the accessible toilet opening is 80cm (2ft 7in).
  • The contrast between the internal door and wall is good.
  • The door does not have a horizontal grab rail.
• Toilet Features View
  • The dimensions of the accessible toilet are 146cm x 198cm (4ft 9in x 6ft 6in).
  • The accessible toilet does not have an unobstructed minimum turning space of 150cm x 150cm.
  • The lighting levels are moderate to good.
  • There is a lateral transfer space.
  • As you face the toilet pan the transfer space is on the right.
  • The lateral transfer space is 85cm (2ft 9in).
  • The transfer space is obstructed by a waste disposal bin.
  • There is a flush on the transfer side.
  • There is not a spatula type lever flush.
  • There is a lever flush.
  • There is a dropdown rail on the transfer side.
  • The contrast between the dropdown rail(s) and wall is good.
  • There is a/are wall-mounted grab rail(s) available.
  • As you face the toilet the wall-mounted grab rail(s) is/are on both sides.
  • There is a vertical wall-mounted grab rail on the transfer side.
  • There is a horizontal wall-mounted grab rail on the opposite side of the seat to the transfer space.
  • The contrast between the wall-mounted grab rail(s) and wall is good.
  • The contrast between the walls and floor is fair.
  • There is an emergency alarm.
  • The emergency pull cord alarm was out of reach (higher than 10cm (4") from floor) when surveyed.
  • There is not a red flashing fire alarm beacon within the toilet.
  • Disposal facilities are available in the toilet.
  • There is a/are general waste (with lid) disposal units.
  • There is not a/are not coat hook(s).
• Additional Fixtures View
  • There is not a mirror.
  • There is not a shelf within the accessible toilet.
  • The toilet has a cistern.
  • The height of the toilet seat above floor level is 44cm (1ft 5in).
  • The toilet seat colour contrast is poor.
  • There is a toilet roll holder.
  • The toilet roll holder can be reached from seated on the toilet.
  • The toilet roll holder is placed higher than 100cm (3ft 3in).
  • The height of the toilet roll holder is 105cm (3ft 5in).
  • The contrast between the toilet roll holder and the wall is fair.
  • There is a wash basin.
  • The wash basin and tap(s) can be reached from seated on the toilet.
  • The wash basin is not placed higher than 74cm (2ft 5in).
  • There is a vertical wall-mounted grab rail on the right hand side of the wash basin.
  • The contrast between the wash basin wall-mounted grab rail(s) and wall is good.
  • The wash basin tap type is lever mixer.
  • There is a wall fixed soap dispenser.
  • The soap dispenser cannot be reached from seated on the toilet.
  • The height of the soap dispenser is 98cm.
  • There is not a towel dispenser.
  • There is a hand dryer.
  • The hand dryer is not placed higher than 100cm (3ft 3in).
  • The height of the hand dryer is 91cm (2ft 12in).
  • The contrast between the hand dryer and the wall is fair.

You are on Accessible Toilet(s) (Eddystone Reef - Left Hand Transfer). Skip to the next section.

Accessible Toilet(s) (Eddystone Reef - Left Hand Transfer)

• There is an/are accessible toilet(s) available.

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• Location and Access View
  • This accessible toilet is located at the entrance to Eddystone Reef.
  • This accessible toilet is approximately 2m (2yd 7in) from the Eddystone Reef entrance.
  • There is step-free access into the accessible toilet.
  • This is a shared toilet.
  • A key is not required for the accessible toilet.
  • There is pictorial signage on or near the toilet door.
  • The contrast between the external door and wall is good.
  • The door opens by sliding (Bi-Fold).
  • The door may be difficult to open.
  • The door is locked by a locking handle.
  • The width of the accessible toilet opening is 80cm (2ft 7in).
  • The contrast between the internal door and wall is fair.
  • The door does not have a horizontal grab rail.
• Toilet Features View
  • The dimensions of the accessible toilet are 145cm x 208cm (4ft 9in x 6ft 10in).
  • The accessible toilet does not have an unobstructed minimum turning space of 150cm x 150cm.
  • The lighting levels are moderate to good.
  • There is a lateral transfer space.
  • As you face the toilet pan the transfer space is on the left.
  • The lateral transfer space is 80cm (2ft 7in).
  • The transfer space is obstructed by a waste disposal bin.
  • There is a flush on the transfer side.
  • There is not a spatula type lever flush.
  • There is a lever flush.
  • There is a dropdown rail on the transfer side.
  • The contrast between the dropdown rail(s) and wall is good.
  • There is a/are wall-mounted grab rail(s) available.
  • As you face the toilet the wall-mounted grab rail(s) is/are on both sides.
  • There is a vertical wall-mounted grab rail on the transfer side.
  • There is a horizontal wall-mounted grab rail on the opposite side of the seat to the transfer space.
  • The contrast between the wall-mounted grab rail(s) and wall is good.
  • The contrast between the walls and floor is fair.
  • There is an emergency alarm.
  • The emergency pull cord alarm was out of reach (higher than 10cm (4") from floor) when surveyed.
  • There is not a red flashing fire alarm beacon within the toilet.
  • Disposal facilities are available in the toilet.
  • There is a/are general waste (with lid) disposal units.
  • There is not a/are not coat hook(s).
• Additional Fixtures View
  • There is not a mirror.
  • There is not a shelf within the accessible toilet.
  • The toilet has a cistern.
  • The height of the toilet seat above floor level is 44cm (1ft 5in).
  • The toilet seat colour contrast is poor.
  • There is a toilet roll holder.
  • The toilet roll holder can be reached from seated on the toilet.
  • The toilet roll holder is placed higher than 100cm (3ft 3in).
  • The height of the toilet roll holder is 112cm (3ft 8in).
  • The contrast between the toilet roll holder and the wall is fair.
  • There is a wash basin.
  • The wash basin and tap(s) can be reached from seated on the toilet.
  • The wash basin is not placed higher than 74cm (2ft 5in).
  • The height of the wash basin is 70cm (2ft 4in).
  • There is a vertical wall-mounted grab rail on the left hand side of the wash basin.
  • The contrast between the wash basin wall-mounted grab rail(s) and wall is good.
  • The wash basin tap type is lever mixer.
  • There is a wall fixed soap dispenser.
  • The soap dispenser cannot be reached from seated on the toilet.
  • The height of the soap dispenser is 97cm.
  • There is not a towel dispenser.
  • There is a hand dryer.
  • The hand dryer is placed higher than 100cm (3ft 3in).
  • The height of the hand dryer is 108cm (3ft 7in).
  • The contrast between the hand dryer and the wall is good.

You are on Standard Toilet(s) (Waves Café). Skip to the next section.

Standard Toilet(s) (Waves Café)

• Standard toilet facilities are available.

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• Toilet Facilities View
  • The female and male toilets are located left from the waves café counter.
  • There is step-free access into the toilet(s).
  • The standard toilet(s) is/are approximately 45m from the main entrance.
  • The colour contrast between the external toilet door(s) and wall(s) is fair.
  • There is pictorial signage on or near the toilet door.
  • It was not possible to access the female toilet.
  • An ambulant toilet cubicle is not available.
  • The height of the wash basin(s) is 80cm.
  • The wash basin(s) tap type is push.
  • Lighting levels are good.
• Baby Changing Facilities View
  • Baby change facilities are available in both the female and male toilets.
  • There is a flip down baby change table available.
  • The height of the baby change table is 98cm.

You are on Standard Toilet(s) (Eddystone Reef). Skip to the next section.

Standard Toilet(s) (Eddystone Reef)

• Standard toilet facilities are available.

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• Toilet Facilities View
  • The female and male toilets are located at the entrance to Eddystone Reef.
  • There is step-free access into the toilet(s).
  • The standard toilet(s) is/are approximately 2m from the Eddystone Reef entrance.
  • The colour contrast between the external toilet door(s) and wall(s) is good.
  • There is pictorial signage on or near the toilet door.
  • It was not possible to access the female toilet.
  • An ambulant toilet cubicle is not available.
  • The height of the wash basin(s) is 80cm.
  • The wash basin(s) tap type is push.
  • Lighting levels are good.
• Baby Changing Facilities View
  • Baby change facilities are available in both the female and male toilets.
  • There is a flip down baby change table available.
  • The height of the baby change table is 98cm.