If there is one thing that consistently draws attention in Singapore’s attractions scene, it is when art, storytelling, and immersive experiences come together in a way that feels both playful and unexpectedly meaningful. This season, that combination takes on a new underwater twist as POP MART brings its beloved character CRYBABY into the depths of marine discovery at the Singapore Oceanarium.
From 24 June to 30 August 2026, visitors will find themselves stepping into “CRYBABY Cry Me an Ocean”, a large-scale collaboration between POP MART, Resorts World Sentosa, and the Singapore Tourism Board. What makes this particularly interesting is not just the presence of a popular collectible character, but the way the entire Oceanarium has been gently reimagined into a story-driven underwater universe where fantasy and real marine life exist side by side.
For those who are already familiar with CRYBABY, the appeal comes from its expressive, emotional design language. The character is often depicted in imaginative, slightly melancholic yet endearing forms, and this activation pushes that identity further by transforming CRYBABY into a cast of ocean-inspired beings. Rather than being a simple exhibition tucked into a corner, the experience spreads across multiple zones within the Oceanarium, making it feel like an integrated journey instead of a standalone installation.
The moment visitors approach the entrance, the tone is already set. Two towering five-metre inflatables stand outside the Oceanarium, acting as guardians of this underwater narrative. One is THE ANGLERFISH, glowing and mysterious, designed as a deep-sea guide with an almost mythical presence. The other is THE PUFFERFISH, round, expressive, and full of personality, offering a lighter and more playful introduction. These large-scale installations immediately signal that this is not a typical visit, but something more imaginative and visually driven.
Inside the Oceanarium, the journey continues across 11 curated photo zones. Each one is carefully placed within existing marine environments, meaning visitors do not experience CRYBABY in isolation, but alongside real aquatic habitats. This blending of storytelling and environment is where the activation becomes more than just aesthetic. It subtly encourages visitors to observe marine life with a refreshed sense of curiosity.
Key areas such as Ocean Wonders, the Shark Seas tunnel, and the Open Ocean viewing panel become part of this layered experience. Life-sized sculptures of CRYBABY marine characters appear in unexpected corners, almost as if they are part of the underwater ecosystem itself. Some are positioned near viewing panels, while others appear in transitional walkways, encouraging visitors to slow down and take in details they might otherwise miss during a regular visit.
One of the more thoughtful aspects of “Cry Me an Ocean” is the use of character storytelling boards placed alongside each installation. These short narratives introduce the personality and imagined role of each CRYBABY character within the ocean world. This approach is particularly effective for families and younger visitors, as it turns abstract marine concepts into relatable personalities. Instead of simply learning about sea creatures, visitors are invited to emotionally connect with them through storytelling.
What stands out most is how the experience subtly aligns with the broader mission of the Singapore Oceanarium, which has long focused on marine education, conservation awareness, and public engagement with ocean ecosystems. By integrating a globally recognised art toy brand like POP MART into this environment, the Oceanarium manages to bridge entertainment and education in a way that feels accessible rather than instructional.
There is also a clear sense that this collaboration is designed with today’s audience in mind. In an era where visitors often look for experiences that are both visually engaging and shareable, the installation offers multiple photo-friendly moments without losing its educational grounding. The balance is important. While the inflatables and sculptures provide striking visuals, the surrounding marine habitats ensure that the focus remains anchored in real ocean life.
For POP MART collectors, this activation offers something more immersive than the usual display shelf or pop-up store. It is an opportunity to step into a full environmental interpretation of CRYBABY’s world. Instead of viewing characters in isolation, they are experienced as part of a living, breathing narrative space. That shift in perspective is what makes the event particularly appealing to fans.
For families visiting Sentosa, this also adds another layer to an already popular destination. The integration with the Oceanarium means that a standard educational outing is transformed into a multi-sensory experience. Children can engage with storytelling elements while still learning about marine ecosystems, while adults can appreciate the design and creativity behind the installations.
It is also worth noting how this collaboration reflects Singapore’s broader positioning as a hub for experiential tourism. With support from the Singapore Tourism Board, there has been a consistent push toward attractions that combine culture, innovation, and storytelling. This installation fits neatly into that direction, offering something that appeals to both local visitors and tourists looking for unique experiences beyond conventional sightseeing.
Another subtle strength of the event lies in its pacing. The installations are not rushed or overwhelming. Instead, they are distributed in a way that encourages exploration. Visitors move through themed zones at a natural rhythm, encountering CRYBABY characters alongside marine life exhibits. This prevents the experience from feeling like a themed overlay and instead allows it to feel like part of the Oceanarium’s natural flow.
By the time visitors reach the final sections, the experience tends to feel more reflective than expected. The combination of playful character design and real marine environments creates a contrast that encourages a second look at the ocean itself. It is not just about taking photos, but about noticing how imagination and nature can coexist in the same space.
“CRYBABY Cry Me an Ocean” runs from 24 June to 30 August 2026 at the Singapore Oceanarium, making it a limited-time seasonal highlight for anyone planning a visit to Sentosa during that period. Whether the interest lies in art collectibles, family-friendly attractions, or immersive installations, this collaboration offers a layered experience that is both visually engaging and thoughtfully constructed.
For those planning a visit, it is also worth checking the official Sentosa and Resorts World Sentosa platforms for updated entry details and timings:
Resorts World Sentosa
Singapore Tourism Board
What ultimately makes this activation worth experiencing is not just the presence of a popular character, but the way it reframes how visitors engage with an aquarium space. It turns observation into storytelling, and storytelling into a shared journey through the ocean’s imagination.
Promotional/Event Details:
Date: 24 June 2026 – 30 August 2026
Time: During Singapore Oceanarium operating hours (standard admission hours apply)
Venue: Singapore Oceanarium, Resorts World Sentosa, Singapore
EverydayOnSales help brands connect with our community, the largest warehouse sales consumers database in Singapore. Advertise with EverydayOnSales Singapore.