Visitors to Chester Zoo are the first in the UK to explore the world’s most innovative ‘out of water’ shark experience.

The new immersive experience, Planet Shark: Predator or Prey, features a 360-degree underwater digital display, as well as life-sized shark models along with the jaws of a prehistoric giant, and largest fish ever recorded, the megalodon shark.

The immersive experience highlights the wonder of sharks and the wide-ranging threats they face, including ocean plastics and illegal shark fin trade.

The conservation charity is working with Grande to bring the marine exhibition to the UK for the very first time, with Grande designing a bespoke immersive gallery for the zoo. Running until 31 October, Grande Experiences owner and CEO, Bruce Peterson, says “it is a unique experience like no other and tells the story of how important sharks are to the oceans, and the planet.”

Dr Gerardo Garcia, Head of Lower Vertebrates and Invertebrates at Chester Zoo, said:

“This ground-breaking exhibition could not have come at a better time. Years of fishing pressures and misrepresentation have pushed many of the world’s shark species to the very brink of extinction. One of their last hopes lies with public education and awareness – and the launch of Planet Shark: Predator or Prey is a vital first step to showcasing these incredible animals in a whole new light.”

Showcasing millions of years of evolution, conservationists at the zoo hope the experience will leave people with a new level of respect for the ocean’s oldest and most effective predators.

Helen Dean, Head of Marketing at the zoo, added:

“Produced on a size and scale never seen before here in the UK, this is a unique experience that includes an immersive cinematic display delivered in a true 360-degree environment, life-size shark models cast from real animals and extremely rare fossils dating back around 370 million years. As a wildlife conservation charity, we want to create a future where nature survives and thrives and this experience will leave guests with a much deeper understanding of these magnificent, yet sadly misunderstood animals.”

The immersive experience is now open and will run until 31 October and is free with normal zoo admission.

To find out more information, please visit: Planet Shark: Predator or Prey at Chester Zoo | Chester Zoo

To find out more about Grande’s touring experiences, contact us.