Océanopolis
Bretagne
Océanopolis is a prominent ocean science and discovery center located in Brest, Brittany, France. Established in 1990, it spans 8,700 square meters and contains around 4 million liters of seawater, including a large shark aquarium. The center is divided into three main pavilions representing temperate, polar, and tropical marine environments, home to approximately 10,000 marine animals and plants from 1,000 species. It offers immersive exhibits that recreate local and global marine habitats, educating visitors on ocean biology, ecosystem functions, and marine conservation. Notably, it houses the Abyss Box, a unique high-pressure aquarium that preserves deep-sea creatures for scientific study. Océanopolis integrates scientific research with public education, featuring interactive displays and outdoor spaces like the otter trail. It is managed by Brest Métropole and recognized for its cultural and scientific contributions to marine awareness.
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Tip: Visit Océanopolis preferably outside peak holiday periods for a more relaxed experience. Booking tickets online in advance is recommended to secure entry and benefit from special rates. Check the official website for current pavilion openings, as some areas may be temporarily closed due to renovations. Take advantage of available discounts for families, students, and seniors. Explore the outdoor otter trail and interactive exhibits for a comprehensive visit.
Interesting facts
- •The Abyss Box at Océanopolis simulates deep-sea pressure conditions of 18 megapascals to keep bathyal fauna alive for study.
- •The temperate pavilion's architecture resembles a crab, designed by Jacques Rougerie.
- •Océanopolis holds 4 million liters of seawater, with 1 million liters dedicated to the shark aquarium.
- •The fauna in the Abyss Box were collected using the Victor 6000 remotely operated vehicle (ROV).
- •In 2023, Océanopolis received the Victoire de la Bretagne award for its contributions.
History
Conceived in the early 1980s by marine biologists Éric Hussenot and Jean-Paul Alayse, Océanopolis was developed to showcase the marine biodiversity of the Iroise Sea.
Construction began in 1988 with the temperate pavilion, designed by architect Jacques Rougerie, opening in 1990.
The center initially attracted half a million visitors in its first year.
In 2000, two additional pavilions representing polar and tropical environments were added, transforming it from an aquarium to a comprehensive ocean discovery park.
Since then, Océanopolis has expanded its educational and conservation missions, including the addition of an otter trail in 2013 and ongoing renovations under the "Métamorphose" program starting in 2023.
Place Guide
Temperate Pavilion (Pavillon Bretagne)1990
The first pavilion of Océanopolis, opened in 1990, designed to showcase the marine life of Brittany’s coast. It features recreated environments from sandy beaches to the Atlantic abyss, including local species and scientific exhibits on ocean phenomena like tides and waves. The pavilion also houses the Abyss Box, preserving deep-sea creatures under high pressure.
Polar Pavilion2000
Opened in 2000, this pavilion presents polar marine ecosystems, highlighting species and habitats of the Arctic and Antarctic regions. It educates visitors about polar biodiversity and environmental challenges.
Tropical Pavilion2000
Also inaugurated in 2000, this pavilion features tropical marine ecosystems with vibrant coral reefs and diverse tropical species, emphasizing the richness of warm ocean environments.
Otter Trail (Sentier des Loutres)2013
An outdoor exhibit opened in 2013 where visitors can observe European and Pacific otters in naturalistic habitats, enhancing the connection between marine and terrestrial ecosystems.
Abyss Box
A specialized aquarium vessel that maintains 16 liters of water at 18 megapascals to simulate deep-sea pressure, allowing survival of deep-sea species like the deep sea crab and prawn for research purposes.
Contact
Phone: 02 98 34 40 40
