Blue Planet prompts 30% hike in visitor numbers to Birmingham attraction

They’re calling it The Blue Planet Effect and its impact is being felt at a leading Birmingham tourist attraction.

Blue Planet II has become the most watched television programme of the year as millions of viewers devote their Sunday evenings to the wonders of the deep narrated by the distinctive tones of national treasure, Sir David Attenborough.

The programme is stimulating people’s interest in the natural world and in particular, the seas and oceans.

Since the programme started The National Sea Life Centre Birmingham has seen a surge in visitor numbers, with ticket sales up 30%.

Christopher Coventry, marketing manager for the attraction, said: “We’ve seen a huge spike in visitor numbers and school bookings since the programme aired. It’s the Attenborough effect!

“We’re seeing so many guests who have never previously taken interest in marine life visit the attraction and we’ve seen a big increase in families from Nottingham and Cardiff, which suggests families are really keen to visit an aquarium.”

He said visitors were keen to learn more about the sharks and octopus, as well as the corals on display in the aquarium.

“Typically, the larger creatures like our penguins, otters and giant green sea turtle are the focus when visiting the attraction however, following the show there has been a distinct interest in the more diverse weird and wonderful creatures,” said Mr Coventry.

“Another example is cuttlefish – people weren’t aware how smart and cool they actually are!

“It’s great how many new guests we’re seeing as a result of the show.”