Want to experience the fragility of the ocean? One of the top things to do in Boulogne-sur-Mer is visiting Nausicaa Aquarium, which houses 58,000 sea creatures. NAUSICAA has been a top attraction in the Hauts-de-France region, attracting over 16 million visitors since its opening in 1991. Nausicaa got its name from the heroine in Homer’s Odyssey who looked after the shipwrecked Ulysses.
Things to know
Address: Boulevard Sainte-Beuve, 62203 Boulogne-sur-Mer, France
Hours: 9:30AM–6:30PM
Parking: There’s a parking lot where you can park your car for free.
Getting there: The adventure is just a 25-minute drive away from the port of Calais. From Paris, London or Brussels, you can rent a car and reach Nausicaa within less than 3 hours. From UK, it can be reached in less than 2 hours. There are also transportation options like buses and train.
Tickets: Special rates are available for students, senior citizens, etc, if the tickets are bought from the premises. Tickets for children under the age of 3 are free of charge. The tickets are also available online.
How big is the Nausicaa Aquarium?
Always expanding, Nausicaa Aquarium is one of the largest aquariums in the whole world; holding 10,000 m3 of water, equal to the volume of 4 Olympic pools. It is an architectural marvel and an artistic wonder. There is a new big tank that creates the environment of the high seas. This tank is the largest water tank in Europe with a size big enough to house shoals of fish, manta rays, house sharks as well as many other sea animals. There is also a 20-metre long window to display the underwater world at the premises. Not to forget about the shark tank, penguin beach, sea lion reserve, submerged forest, etc.
What are the new additions at Nausicaa Aquarium?
The following are a few of the many additions to Nausicaa Aquarium, which opened for the public on the 19th of May, 2018: A 18-metre long submarine tunnel with amazing views. a 5 metres high and 20 metres wide viewing panel. a 7m deep trench new technologies and interactive tools to enhance the experience.
What is Mr. Goodfish Campaign?
Nausicaa – Centre de la Mer is a part of Mr. Goodfish campaign which is an initiative to put light on the sustainable consumption of seafood. Mr. Goodfish program is backed by World Ocean Network. Overall, the Nausicaa Aquarium is based upon marine conservation and awareness about the oceans.
Coral Lagoon
The French National Sea Center makes sure that you experience the expansiveness of the ocean in many ways. The Coral Lagoon is a huge tank that can be accessed from both top and bottom. Expect meeting giant tortoises and watch the fish go crazy during their feeding time. 200 different types of species can be spotted in this tank. Be ready to get overwhelmed by the myriad of colours along with a memorable visual treat. You can also meet penguins there. Visitors can attend the training of the 6 Californian Sea Lions every day. Interaction with animals is the best part of visiting the French National Sea Center.
More to expect at Nausicaa Aquarium
You can enjoy looking at pelagic rays & hammerhead sharks. The new building made up in the form of a Manta Ray. Hungry? You can even enjoy seafood at the outlet in the premises. The theme of the aquarium is the plight of oceans.
Nearby attractions at Boulogne-sur-Mer
Boulogne has many other attractions such as Étaples Military Cemetery and Todt Battery. If you are visiting the aquarium then you can make the most of your visit by exploring the other attractions the region. A nice car rental will be helpful for the same.
