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Whether you are a first time guest to Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies or have visited this amazing facility many times in the past, you can now get closer than ever to the aquatic residents of Shark Lagoon on the Glass Bottom Boat Adventure! This new attraction allows guests to peer directly into the water below the boat to observe fascinating sea creatures swimming in the reef! Here is everything you need to know about the Glass Bottom Boat Adventure at Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies:
What to Expect
The Glass Bottom Boat Adventure is a unique new adventure where you will venture into the Shark Lagoon on a 16 foot boat with a clear bottom. There are just 3 inches of glass separating you from the 12 foot sharks that live in the Shark Lagoon! During this experience, you will also meet thousands of exotic sea creatures and Sally, the aquarium’s resident green sea turtle. Altogether, the Shark Lagoon is home to more than 8,500 aquatic animals that represent over 75 different species! Each boat ride is led by the aquarium’s Adventure Crew, who will share information about all the sea creatures and what it takes to maintain the aquarium.
Dates, Times and Location
Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies is open 365 days per year and opens at 9 AM each morning. Closing times vary per season, so be sure to check the official operating schedule for updated information. The Glass Bottom Boat Adventures depart every 20 minutes throughout the day. The aquarium is located at traffic light #5 in Gatlinburg, and convenient paid parking is available at the city owned garage behind the aquarium building.
Admission Information
The Glass Bottom Boat Adventure is an add-on to the aquarium admission and does not include admission to the aquarium. Guests may visit the Glass Bottom Boat area to upgrade their adventure or can purchase tickets in advance for a specific time slot.
Where to Stay
If you are planning a vacation to Gatlinburg and want to stay in the best cabins near Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies, check out Parkside Cabin Rentals! Our beautiful cabins are situated in scenic locations where you can enjoy the beauty of the Great Smoky Mountains while still being close to the action of downtown Gatlinburg. As a bonus, we are pleased to offer discounts to Ripley’s attractions as well as many other Parkside Perks ! While staying with Parkside Cabin Rentals, you can take advantage of our excellent amenities including outdoor hot tubs, fireplaces, game rooms and much more! Whether you want a one bedroom cabin for a couple’s getaway or a multi-bedroom cabin for a group vacation, we have just what you need!
Check out all of our cabins in Gatlinburg today to plan your trip to experience the Glass Bottom Boat Adventure at Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies! We hope to see you soon at Parkside Cabin Rentals!
