Construction costs were paid through federal, state, local, and private consortiums.

[7] The lead designer of the aquarium was Eley Guild Hardy Architects of Biloxi, with assistance from PGAV Destinations of St. Louis, and Brown, Mitchell & Alexander, Inc. (consulting engineers) of Gulfport/Biloxi.

[10] Private donations through the Mississippi Aquarium Foundation accounted for the remaining 10% of funding.

[10] Distinct features at the aquarium entrance and emblazoned on its logo are three sails.

[4] Current and proposed exhibits include:[3] The aquarium complex contains landscaped footpaths that are lined with native plants from seven physiographic regions of Mississippi.