If your kids have been asking to see The SpongeBob Movie: Search for SquarePants (in cinemas now, by the way), here's how to turn that movie outing into a full-blown summer adventure: SpongeBob SquarePants and Patrick Star have officially arrived at SEA LIFE aquariums across Australia, bringing interactive challenges, exclusive character meet-and-greets, and a whole lot of nautical nonsense to Sydney, Melbourne and the Sunshine Coast.
Running throughout the school holidays until 27 January, this isn't just a themed decoration situation — it's a proper immersive program that combines learning about real sea creatures with the magic of meeting characters your kids already adore. Let's dive in.
How SpongeBob & Patrick Made Their Grand Entrance
Trust SEA LIFE to go all-out with the arrivals. SpongeBob and Patrick didn't just show up — they sailed in like the VIPs they are:
Sydney Harbour: The duo climbed aboard the majestic Southern Swan Tall Ship, waving to excited fans as they cruised past the Opera House and Harbour Bridge before docking at SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium on Darling Harbour for a yellow-carpet welcome. (Yes, yellow carpet. Of course it was yellow.)
Sunshine Coast: Patrick cruised in style on The Boat Mooloolaba, docking at the wharf and greeting families at SEA LIFE Sunshine Coast Aquarium like the starfish superstar he is.
Melbourne: SpongeBob took to the historic Polly Woodside Tall Ship on the Yarra River before meeting team members and fans at SEA LIFE Melbourne Aquarium.
These pirate-themed arrivals set the perfect stage for what's happening inside the aquariums all summer long, a celebration of ocean life, swashbuckling adventures, and the film's big-screen splash.
What's Happening at Sea Life this Summer
Exclusive Character Meet-and-Greets
This is the headline act, parents. Your kids can actually meet SpongeBob and Patrick in person at select times throughout the day. Think photo ops, hugs, and the kind of moment that makes their entire summer. Check the aquarium websites for specific meet-and-greet times so you can plan your visit around these slots — they're the most popular part of the program for a reason.
Underworld Adventure Challenges
Kids can dive into immersive challenges where they learn about real sea creatures while earning their official "Swashbuckler Certificate." It's the kind of activity that sneaks education into entertainment — your children think they're on a pirate quest, but they're actually learning about marine life, ocean ecosystems and the creatures living right there in the tanks around them.
Photo Opportunities Throughout the Aquariums
Beyond the character meet-and-greets, there are SpongeBob and Patrick-themed photo spots scattered throughout all three locations. Perfect for capturing those candid moments when your kids spot their favourite characters around corners, plus plenty of Instagrammable backdrops for parents who want proof this happened.
Real Sea Life Exploration
Don't forget — you're still at world-class aquariums. While the SpongeBob program adds that extra layer of magic, kids also get to explore thousands of real sea creatures, from sharks and rays to tropical fish and penguins. The character collaboration makes the visit even more engaging, especially for younger kids who might otherwise lose interest halfway through.
The Movie Connection
The summer program celebrates The SpongeBob Movie: Search for SquarePants, now in cinemas. In this swashbuckling comedy adventure, SpongeBob sets out to prove his bravery to Mr. Krabs by following The Flying Dutchman, a mysterious ghost pirate, on a journey to the deepest depths of the ocean.
The film's pirate theme flows beautifully into the SEA LIFE experience — kids who've seen the movie will recognize references and challenges inspired by the story, while those who haven't will still have a blast with the interactive activities. Either way, it creates a cohesive experience that extends the magic beyond the cinema.
Tips for making the most of your Visit
Check meet-and-greet times before you go: These sessions happen at select times throughout the day. Check the SEA LIFE website or call ahead so you can time your visit around character appearances.
Arrive early or visit mid-week: School holidays mean crowds. Early morning sessions or midweek visits (Tuesday-Thursday) tend to be quieter.
Allow 2-3 hours minimum: Between exploring the aquarium, completing challenges, and waiting for character meet-and-greets, you'll want time to do it all without rushing.
Bring a camera (or charge your phone): The photo opportunities are genuinely excellent — you'll want battery life for all the shots.
Pair it with the movie: Consider seeing the film before or after your aquarium visit to maximize the excitement and recognition factor.
Book through SPARK POP: Find your tickets easily and lock in your underwater adventure — because nothing says summer holidays like meeting SpongeBob while surrounded by actual sea creatures.
This collaboration is exactly the kind of thing that transforms a standard aquarium visit into a marquee summer memory. Character meet-and-greets, interactive challenges, and thousands of real sea creatures — all wrapped up in one air-conditioned adventure that's perfect for hot summer days. The program wraps up on 27 January, so if you've got SpongeBob fans in your house, now's the time to make it happen.
👉 Book your SEA LIFE tickets on SPARK POP and get ready for nautical nonsense and underwater fun!
SEA LIFE Locations:
Movie: The SpongeBob Movie: Search for SquarePants — in cinemas now
FIRST BOOKING