Rediscover Atlantis

I’m watching intently as a cook follows a meticulous list of ingredients to prep the next course that will soon be served for a feast at Atlantis Paradise Island. But this is far from your typical behind-the-scenes dining experience — the meals won’t be feeding guests, but rather, some of the 50,000 aquatic animals that can be found across the sprawling resort in The Bahamas.

While the iconic property was closed during the pandemic, a team of 165 workers, including marine biologists and vets, were still on hand to ensure over 250 marine species — ranging from tiny seahorses to Caribbean Reef sharks — thrived.

“We don’t just have an aquarium, we’re one of the leading aquariums in the world not because of our fish but because of the people who do the research,” explained Ted Adderley, vice president, sales at Atlantis, showcasing a glimpse into the inner workings of one of the largest resorts in the destination. “We have four marine biologists on staff, and our research into how we take care of our fish makes us important.”

Before setting foot on the resort, guests may get a small sense of just how large the collection of marine habitats and marine exhibits is, but what isn’t as well known is the amount of sustainability and conservation efforts that take place with facilities like an animal-rescue rehabilitation hospital and a fish hospital with state-of-the-art equipment on site.

For the full story, check out the latest issue of TRAVEL COURIER.