A New Tide: Mote SEA Opens at UTC
By Joseph Maguire | Photography by Casey Malone
When the Mote Aquarium on City Island closed its doors to the public in July 2025, it marked the end of a cherished Sarasota landmark. But the story didn’t end there — it evolved. Now, the brand-new Mote Science Education Aquarium (Mote SEA) at Nathan Benderson Park / University Town Center (UTC) has officially opened, ushering in a new era of discovery, innovation, and ocean wonder.
Our contributing photographer, Casey Malone, offered a firsthand glimpse into the experience:
“My favorite was maybe the giant octopus exhibit but I also enjoyed either of the shark tanks.”
Casey’s impressions perfectly capture the essence of Mote SEA — a place where awe and education meet beneath waves of light and color.
From City Island to UTC: A Scientific Rebirth
On July 6, 2025, Mote’s City Island aquarium welcomed its last guests before transitioning to its expansive new home near UTC. The move was monumental — involving the transfer of marine life, complex engineering, and months of calibration for life-support systems.
Mote ensured that every team member and animal transitioned safely, emphasizing continuity, research integrity, and conservation care. After months of testing, fine-tuning, and acclimating the animals, Mote SEA officially opened its doors to the public on October 8, 2025.
The Stats Behind Mote SEA
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Campus size | 12 acres at Nathan Benderson Park |
| Building footprint | 146,000 sq ft of space |
| Exhibit capacity | Over 1 million gallons of marine habitats |
| Project cost | ~$130 million (part of a $167 million goal) |
| Projected attendance | 700,000 visitors per year |
| Education reach | ~70,000 K-12 students annually |
| Species diversity | 400+ marine species, thousands of animals |
| STEM & Training labs | 8 total — focused on AI, coral restoration, ocean engineering, and biomedical research |
| Funding progress | $137 million raised (per Mote.org) |
These figures illustrate not only a physical expansion but a conceptual leap — from an aquarium focused on exhibit viewing to a center deeply rooted in marine science and public engagement.
Visitor Reactions: Waves of Praise 🌟
Just weeks after opening, visitors are already raving on social media about their experiences at Mote SEA.
“Just went today. Very, very nice. I was expecting bigger crowds but looks like they manage that quite well — there is a space next to every aquarium. Fantastic place with a well-stocked gift shop.” — George B.
“A Fantastic Upgrade.” — Marie H.
“This new location is fantastic! We loved our visit to the new aquarium and will definitely spend many days visiting as a member.” — LeAnn C.
Their comments echo a common theme: Mote SEA isn’t just a replacement — it’s a transformation that elevates what a public aquarium can be.
Exhibits & Highlights
Walking through Mote SEA is like moving through ocean layers — from the shallow reefs of the Florida Keys to the dark mysteries of the deep sea.
- The Giant Pacific Octopus: a fan favorite and Casey Malone’s top pick — a fluid dance of intelligence and color.
- The Shark Habitats: two massive tanks with immersive viewing tunnels that place visitors inches away from sleek predators.
- The Coral Conservation Gallery: highlights Mote’s groundbreaking coral restoration work in the Keys.
- Interactive STEM Zones: hands-on labs where kids and adults alike can simulate marine research.
- Event Terraces & Observation Decks: panoramic views of Nathan Benderson Park and Sarasota’s skyline create stunning photo moments.
The design team at Mote SEA ensured that each environment tells a story — from fragile ecosystems to the science that protects them.
Education, Economy & Community Impact
Beyond the breathtaking displays, Mote SEA was built with purpose. Its three dedicated teaching laboratories and five workforce training labs aim to educate the next generation of marine scientists and ocean engineers.
The aquarium is projected to attract 700,000 annual visitors, adding millions to the local economy and complementing UTC’s thriving retail, dining, and entertainment scene.
For educators, families, and students, Mote SEA represents access to science, sustainability, and Sarasota’s coastal legacy.
Through Casey’s Lens
In Casey Malone’s photographs, visitors lean into the glass, their faces lit by the glow of bioluminescent displays and drifting rays. Every shot conveys connection — the kind that sparks lifelong curiosity about our oceans.
It’s the same sense of wonder that’s drawing crowds and members alike — each visitor leaving with a greater appreciation of our underwater world.
A New Era for Sarasota’s Ocean Legacy
From its early beginnings on City Island to its bold new home in the heart of UTC, the Mote Science Education Aquarium stands as a testament to vision, resilience, and a shared love for the sea.
Whether it’s your first visit or your fiftieth, Mote SEA invites you to dive deeper — into discovery, education, and awe.
Learn more at mote.org
