The DEEP Kids recently enjoyed an exciting and educational trip to the Two Oceans Aquarium in Cape Town — a day filled with discovery, fun, and a deeper understanding of the ocean and its incredible creatures.
From the moment they stepped through the aquarium doors, the children were captivated by the wonders of the underwater world. Their visit began with an interactive puppet show, where they met Peter the Penguin and Sally the Cape Fur Seal. Through this fun and engaging performance, the DEEP Kids learnt about the impact of plastic pollution on marine life and how even small everyday choices — like recycling and reducing single-use plastics — can make a big difference in protecting sea animals.
A highlight of the day was watching the penguin feeding. The kids were fascinated to learn that the penguins at the aquarium are fed sardines twice a day, and that each penguin eats several fish during every feeding session. They also discovered how carefully the animal care team ensures each penguin receives the right amount of food and attention.
Next, the group explored the shark exhibit, where they were introduced to the mysterious world of these top ocean predators. During the shark feeding, they learnt about ragged-tooth sharks, discovering that these impressive animals can go up to a month without food thanks to their slow metabolism. This sparked plenty of curiosity and discussion about how different marine species have adapted to survive in their natural environments.
As they made their way through the aquarium’s fascinating displays, the DEEP Kids discovered everything from the microscopic life of zooplankton to the tiny Knysna seahorse, vibrant sea anemones, mesmerizing jellyfish, majestic sea turtles, and a variety of sharks. Each exhibit opened their eyes to the richness and diversity of marine life found along South Africa’s coasts.
This outing was not only an unforgettable experience but also an important part of the DEEP programme’s mission — to inspire young ocean ambassadors. By learning about marine ecosystems, the challenges they face, and the role humans play in protecting them, the DEEP Kids are gaining the knowledge and passion needed to care for the environment and become future conservation leaders.
A heartfelt thank you to the Two Oceans Aquarium for welcoming our DEEP Kids and giving them such a memorable opportunity to explore, learn, and connect with the underwater world. Experiences like these remind us how education and exposure can shape the next generation of ocean guardians.
