€80m Marine Attraction aims to attract 700,000 visitors annually
OceanÉire, a groundbreaking new +€80 million marine attraction project, has been officially announced today, promising to redefine family entertainment, marine research, and conservation in Ireland.
Backed by a heavyweight team of Irish tourism leaders and international design experts, the project is currently in active negotiations with a number of key stakeholders regarding prime locations in Dublin and seeking further stakeholder and investment backing.
Designed to be a spectacular, new-era oceanarium, OceanÉire aims to attract 700,000 visitors annually. The state-of-the-art facility will deliver an estimated €200 million annual economic impact to the region and create over 120 full-time jobs, establishing itself as one of Ireland’s most exciting large-scale visitor experiences open 365 days a year irrespective of the weather.
A Visionary Marine Experience
OceanÉire will move far beyond the traditional aquarium model. The ambitious project features immersive technologies, world-class marine habitats, and spectacular tunnels where the ocean meets the sky. Visitors will experience interactive storytelling, digital exhibits that bring the deep sea to life, and ocean-inspired culinary dining.
Beyond tourism, OceanÉire is built on a foundation of sustainability and research. The facility will serve as a hub for advancing marine science, inspiring ocean stewardship through conservation education, and collaborating with research institutions to deepen the understanding of ocean ecosystems.
Ongoing Dublin Location Negotiations
The development team is currently evaluating several strategic sites across Dublin. Advanced discussions are underway with key local and national stakeholders to secure a location that maximises accessibility for families and tourists while complementing Dublin’s broader urban development and tourism strategy.
Led by Industry Heavyweights OceanÉire is being driven by a world-class consortium of experts combining local strategic vision with global execution experience:
- Keith McDonnell (Founder & MD, El Travel Group) – Irish tourism industry leader. Owner of the World of Illusion, Irish Whiskey Museum, EI Travel
- Sam Hunt (Founder, HuntVentures) – Commercial Strategist, Operations, and Financing Lead.
- Paul Carty (Former MD, Guinness Storehouse) – Non-Executive Board Member.
- Michael Counahan (Senior Advisor, MD to CHL Consulting) – Ireland’s leading Tourist Attraction Consultant.
A Call for National Support
“OceanÉire is more than just a visitor attraction; it is a vital investment in Ireland’s tourism infrastructure, our local economy, and our relationship with the ocean,” said Keith McDonnell, CEO Founder for OceanÉire.
“We are currently in productive negotiations regarding several exceptional locations in Dublin. To bring this landmark project to life, we are inviting the support of the public, the business/investment community, and government partners. Together, we can create a legacy destination that Dublin, and all of Ireland, can be incredibly proud of.”
The OceanÉire team is calling on stakeholders across Irish civic, business, and political life to back the initiative as something Ireland needs and all Irish citizens will benefit from greatly 365 days a year (irrespective of the weather!!)
For more information and to explore the vision, visit www.oceaneire.ie
