The Aquarium of Guam

Timeline

  1. Foundations1994 – 1999
  2. Guam establishes a plan to create a public aquarium

    Plans are formalised to develop a world-class aquarium for Guam, setting the foundation for a new visitor experience on the island.

  3. Existing building is transformed into an aquarium facility

    A retail and entertainment structure is redesigned and engineered into a large indoor aquarium, including installation of major life support systems and a walk-through tunnel.

  4. UnderWater World Guam opens to the public

    The aquarium opens in Tumon, introducing visitors to a unique tunnel experience surrounded by sharks, rays and tropical fish.

  5. Growing up with Guam2000s – 2010s
  6. The aquarium becomes a key visitor attraction in Guam

    The facility quickly becomes one of Guam’s most recognisable attractions, complementing the island’s natural marine environment with an accessible indoor experience.

  7. Underwater tunnel dining experience is introduced

    Guests are offered the opportunity to dine inside the tunnel, creating one of Guam’s most distinctive and memorable visitor experiences.

  8. School programmes introduce generations of students to marine life

    Educational visits and guided programmes connect children with the marine animals and ecosystems found in Guam’s surrounding waters.

  9. The aquarium becomes a familiar part of community life

    Families return regularly, making the aquarium a place associated with shared experiences, milestones and lasting memories.

  10. The aquarium supports coastal clean‑up and conservation awareness

    The aquarium contributes to environmental initiatives, including island-wide clean-up efforts, helping raise awareness of ocean health and marine conservation.

  11. Reaching further2016 – 2025
  12. The aquarium supports Mariana Trench exploration activities

    The facility serves as a command centre for a major ocean exploration initiative, linking Guam to global scientific research.

  13. Aquarium joins university‑led reef restoration partnership

    A formal partnership with the University of Guam and government agencies supports coral reef restoration and environmental conservation efforts.

  14. Aquarium of Guam appoints Advanced Aquarium Technologies

    The Aquarium of Guam appoints Australian multinational Advanced Aquarium Technologies, a specialist in the design, development and operation of world class public aquariums, to review and reimagine the aquarium. AAT takes over curatorial leadership of the facility.

  15. UnderWater World is renamed the Aquarium of Guam

    The attraction is reintroduced under a new name, marking a new chapter while building on more than two decades of history.

  16. Baby blacktip reef sharks are born at the aquarium

    The birth of young sharks is celebrated with the community, including a public naming initiative.

  17. Reimagining2025 – 2026
  18. Aquarium closes temporarily for major redevelopment

    The facility closes to allow for a full transformation, representing the most significant upgrade since opening.

  19. Long-term managed services agreement signed with Advanced Aquarium Technologies

    The Aquarium of Guam and Advanced Aquarium Technologies sign a long term Managed Services Agreement committing AAT to permanently embedding three members of AAT staff at the aquarium including the General Manager, Curator and Assistant Curator roles.

  20. Placeholder

    Guam Museum exhibit highlights reef species and cultural connection

    A giant clam exhibit at the Guam Museum highlights the cultural and ecological importance of reef species and the connection between people and the ocean.

  21. Aquarium undergoes a complete reimagining

    Exhibits, infrastructure and visitor experiences are redesigned to better reflect Guam’s interconnected aquatic environments.

  22. The renewed Aquarium of Guam reopens

    The aquarium returns as a modern, immersive and educational experience for residents and visitors.