It all began in a steady caravan of climate-controlled vehicles, a migration 45 years in the making.
The familiar, aging aquariums on City Island had been home for decades, but for the hundreds of marine animals at Mote Marine Laboratory, a new chapter was beginning.
For months, the meticulous, species-specific process unfolded.
Sharks and reef fish, accustomed to the slow currents of their old habitats, were transported in water-filled vessels with carefully maintained oxygen levels, often under the cloak of night to avoid traffic and reduce stress.
The gentle giants, the manatees, traveled in specially designed, air-conditioned trucks, a journey overseen by the dedicated rehabilitation team.
The playful river otters, like Stella and Fynn, were secured in custom-built cages, their trip across the bridge a testament to careful planning.
The destination was the new $130 million Mote Science Education Aquarium (Mote SEA), a 146,000-square-foot facility near Nathan Benderson Park.
After a year-long delay due to a severe hurricane season in 2024, the anticipation had been building for both staff and the public. The new complex promised larger, more authentic habitats and a chance to double the annual visitor count.
Upon arrival, the animals entered a period of quarantine and careful acclimation, a slow and steady process to help them adjust to their new surroundings. The aquarists and vets watched over every creature, monitoring their health and behavior with unwavering attention.
The new habitats were state-of-the-art, with the star attraction being a 400,000-gallon Gulf of Mexico tank that is now home to the sharks and other native species.
The main public entrance leads visitors on an escalator to the third floor, where they begin their journey through the “Florida Waters” exhibit, greeted by Stella and Fynn, the river otters, and Lou and Buffett, the two resident manatees. New residents, including Humboldt penguins and a giant Pacific octopus, also made their debut, showcasing Mote’s expansion.
Last Wednesday, Mote SEA officially opened its doors to the public. Visitors were no longer faced with a long drive to a cramped island. Instead, the aquarium was centrally located and brimming with interactive exhibits and three hands-on STEM teaching labs. The mission is clear: to ignite curiosity, inspire creation, and celebrate the power of science.
Now, the City Island campus can begin its transformation. It will be reborn as an International Marine Science & Technology Innovation Park, allowing Mote to expand its research and conservation initiatives.
