A child looking an array of creatures provided by Zoolab.

About

Spark your curiosity as we dive into the fascinating world of sea life and celebrate the spirit of exploration led by the pioneers of the Royal Navy.

The Pioneers of the Royal Navy were driven by curiosity. Constantly asking questions, testing new ideas, and pushing the boundaries of what was possible at sea. Discover your sense of curiosity and experience Zoolab's open sessions, where families can enjoy close encounters with a variety of fascinating animals.

As visitors interact with the animals, the Zoolab team will share engaging insights about the oceans explored by the Royal Navy's pioneering sailors, and the incredible life found beneath the waves. Giant snails, for example, are molluscs, like sea slugs, snails, octopuses, and squids. Tarantulas and millipedes are arthropods, a group that in the ocean includes familiar creatures like crabs, lobsters, and shrimp. Millipede-like species were among the earliest animals to transition from sea to land millions of years ago.

Not all animals encountered by Royal Navy explorers were ocean dwellers—ships often carried stowaways as well. Visitors will learn about common stowaway species such as cockroaches and rodents, represented here by a friendly gerbil.

Suitable for all ages, this event is free with a valid museum ticket.

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This event is free with a valid museum ticket.

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Ocean Pioneers at Portsmouth Historic Dockyard

Type:Family

The Galleries of the National Museum of the Royal Navy, Portsmouth Historic Dockyard, HM Naval Base, Portsmouth, Hampshire, PO1 3LJ
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Tel023 9283 9766

Opening Times

Ocean Pioneers (22 July 2025)
DayTimes
Tuesday10:00 - 17:30
Ocean Pioneers (21 Aug 2025)
DayTimes
Thursday10:00 - 17:30

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