UConn Basketball coach Jim Calhoun participates in a Penguin Encounter at the Aquarium.

Penguin Encounter

The African Penguin Encounter Program is a 60-minute session in which participants get the opportunity to interact with an actual African penguin in one of our classrooms. Participants sit in a circle as a penguin walks freely among the group, providing each person with a unique face-to-face penguin encounter. While there, one of our penguin specialists will describe these remarkable birds and their care here at the Aquarium.  In this program you will also learn about the history of the species and about conservation issues affecting these intriguing animals.

Participants in the penguin contact program must be at least six years old. Cost of the program is $70 for members and $79 for non-members. Reservations are recommended. 

Mystic Aquarium & Institute for Exploration is a non-profit organization. All proceeds from this program and others as well go to fund our education, marine research, marine rescue and release and expeditions.

To inquire about one of our programs or tours, please complete our online Program Registration Form. After you complete the form, a Reservations staff member will contact you to obtain payment and finalize your reservation.

For additional information, please call 860-572-5955 ext. 520. This program is scheduled to run year-round. Times vary and are subject to change.  

Penguin Encounter Programs are offered during weekends at 12:30. Throughout school breaks, the programs will be offered daily.

Dec 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31 & Jan 1, 2 at 12:30

Feb 12, 15, 21, 22 at 11:00 & 12:30

Feb 16, 17, 18, 19, 20 at 12:30    

Frequently Asked Questions

Still have questions about our Penguin Encounter Program?  Click above to find answers to frequently asked questions.