The Sei Whale transported by traction engine to Douglas

The Sei Whale on display at the Manx Museum

This week, Manx National Heritage is inviting families to dive into an ocean of discovery at the Manx Museum as it marks the centenary of its most iconic exhibit — the museum’s majestic Sei Whale skeleton.

To celebrate 100 years since the acquisition of this awe-inspiring specimen, Manx National Heritage has teamed up with Manx Whale and Dolphin Watch and the Manx Wildlife Trust to host a special day of marine-themed activities on Thursday, 14 August 2025.

The event will feature three activities designed to inspire curiosity about whales, dolphins, and ocean conservation:

Beneath the Bones: Whale Skeleton Tour & Ocean Discoveries

Duration: 30 minutes
Location: Natural History Gallery, Manx Museum

Discover the incredible 100-year journey of the Manx Museum’s Sei whale skeleton with a behind-the-scenes tour led by Manx National Heritage Curator for Natural History, Laura McCoy.  Explore the fascinating story of how this giant of the sea came to the Isle of Man, and what it reveals about marine life past and present. After the tour, take a microscopic look at the ocean’s smallest creatures — the plankton that sustain whales — and learn how plastic pollution threatens them. This hands-on experience combines science, storytelling, and conservation action.

Meet a Dolphin, a Porpoise and a Seal!

Duration: 30 minutes
Location: Natural History Gallery, Manx Museum

Get up close to life-size inflatable marine mammals with the Manx Whale and Dolphin Watch team. Meet Robbie the Risso’s dolphin, Perkyn the porpoise, and Tulip Bell the seal while learning how to spot dolphins from the shore, how scientists study them, and why Manx waters are so special for marine wildlife.

This lively, interactive talk includes fascinating facts, Q&A sessions, and hands-on activities for all ages.

Whale Tales: Community Art & Collage

Duration: 30 minutes
Location: Seminar Room, Manx Museum

Help create a giant community whale collage using biodegradable materials and ocean-inspired textures. Learn fun whale facts while expressing your creativity, and help build an artwork that celebrates the Sei whale’s story and the rich marine life of the Isle of Man.

The event takes place from 1pm on Thursday, 14 August 2025 at the Manx Museum in Douglas. Tickets cost £5 per child.  Book now at https://manxnationalheritage.im/whats-on/