Polaria Aquarium
Nordland
Polaria Aquarium, located in Tromsø, Norway, is recognized as the world's most northerly aquarium. Opened in May 1998, it is designed primarily as an educational attraction, focusing on the Arctic environment and marine life, particularly from the Svalbard region. Unlike more scientific aquariums, Polaria emphasizes interactive and child-friendly exhibits, including conventional aquaria, open tanks, and displays featuring rock-shore animals and baby fish. Its highlight is an open pool housing trained bearded seals, with observation blisters and a submerged transparent tunnel allowing visitors to view the animals from unique underwater perspectives. The building's architecture is inspired by Arctic ice floes pressed ashore, creating a striking modern design that complements Tromsø's Arctic Cathedral nearby. Adjacent to Polaria is the preserved seal hunting ship Polstjerna, which can be visited with tickets purchased at Polaria, enriching the Arctic cultural experience.
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Tip: Visit Polaria during the summer months for extended daylight and optimal viewing of marine life. Purchasing combined tickets for Polaria and the nearby Polstjerna seal hunting ship museum in advance is recommended to save time. The aquarium offers educational programs suitable for children, making it an ideal family destination. Check opening hours on the official website before visiting, as they may vary seasonally. Discounts are generally available for children, seniors, and groups.
Interesting facts
- •Polaria is the world's northernmost aquarium, located well above the Arctic Circle in Tromsø.
- •The building's architecture represents Arctic ice floes pressed onto land, a design echoing the nearby Arctic Cathedral.
- •Polaria features a unique open pool with trained bearded seals that visitors can watch from underwater observation blisters and a transparent tunnel.
- •The adjacent Polstjerna ship museum preserves one of Norway's most famous seal hunting vessels, enhancing the Arctic cultural experience.
History
Polaria Aquarium was inaugurated in May 1998 as a unique educational facility focused on Arctic marine life and environment.
Its establishment marked Tromsø's commitment to Arctic education and tourism.
Over the years, Polaria has expanded its exhibits and programs to enhance visitor engagement, including the introduction of trained bearded seals and interactive displays.
The aquarium's building design reflects Arctic ice formations, linking cultural and natural heritage.
Nearby, the Polstjerna seal hunting ship museum preserves maritime history related to Arctic seal hunting, complementing Polaria's focus.
Place Guide
Bearded Seal Pool
The centerpiece of Polaria is an open pool housing trained bearded seals (Erignathus barbatus). Visitors can observe the seals from underwater observation blisters and a transparent submerged tunnel, offering an immersive viewing experience.
Arctic Walkway
An interactive area featuring displays of polar exploration equipment, stuffed animals, and simulated permafrost, educating visitors about Arctic nature and history.
Five-Screen Panoramic Cinema
A cinema showing panoramic films about the Arctic environment and wildlife, providing immersive educational content.
Polaria Building Architecture1998
The building's design symbolizes Arctic ice floes pressed ashore, featuring striking modern architecture that complements Tromsø's Arctic Cathedral across the harbor.
Contact
Phone: 77 75 01 00
