Seward, Alaska (March 14, 2020)– To support public health efforts in the best interest of our community and our staff, the Alaska SeaLife Center will close temporarily to the public beginning Monday, March 16 until further notice.

Out of an abundance of caution, we have elected to close to do our part in the social distancing that may help protect our community from the further spread of novel coronavirus (COVID-19). At this time, there are no known cases of COVID-19 within the Alaska SeaLife Center or the Seward community.

During this closure, essential staff, including members of our security, facilities, veterinary and animal care teams, will report to work as usual to maintain the building’s operation and provide vital care to our animals. Staff working on site have been advised of appropriate social distancing methods and have access to personal protective gear if necessary. We are implementing a remote work policy for all non-essential staff.  All employees will be paid during this two-week closure.

We plan to offer a variety of virtual programming so that the public may continue to engage with the Alaska SeaLife Center exhibits and animals.  We will also take the opportunity to deep clean our facilities in accordance with CDC guidelines.

Thank you, as always, for your understanding and continued support of our mission to generate and share scientific knowledge to promote understanding and stewardship of Alaska's marine ecosystems.  We look forward to seeing you again at the Alaska SeaLife Center soon. 

If you have purchased tickets to visit and you wish to change your plans, please email onlinesales@alaskasealife.org or call 1-888-378-2525 for rescheduling or cancellation options.

For more information on this rapidly changing situation, please follow our social media and website for updates.