Bayworld

Bayworld is strategically positioned on the popular Port Elizabeth beachfront amidst a variety of other visitor attractions and recreational activities.  It is unique in Southern Africa as it embraces a natural and cultural history Museum, as well as an Oceanarium, Snake Park and a historical house museum. The main activities of the facility are research and education aimed at stimulating a greater awareness of the need for conservation of South Africa’s natural and cultural heritage.

Research and education programmes focus on marine life, reptiles, maritime and local history. An average of 60 000 children benefited from educational programmes run at Bayworld. These programmes are mainly directed at primary school children.  Specialised programmes are also tailored to the needs of rural communities in the form of outreach programmes.  The needs of children with learning and other disabilities are also addressed.  All these children benefit from a classroom based orientation, handouts and an intimate encounter with live animals and specimens. Bayworld is an important stakeholder in Eastern Cape tourism, providing tourists with an educational, yet entertaining and recreational experience.  It engages constructively with the communities it serves through collaborative projects.

As a consequence of the collections, research and animal husbandry activities at Bayworld, staff have responded to live and dead marine mammals, penguin and turtle strandings along the Eastern Cape Coast.  Rehabilitation of animals has only been possible through the assistance of volunteers who undergo training to be equipped for the task.  Funding for these activities comes from donations and sponsorships.  For more information, visit www.bayworld.co.za.