The North Sea Oceanarium
Nordjylland
The North Sea Oceanarium, located in Hirtshals, North Jutland, Denmark, is a renowned public aquarium and museum dedicated to the marine life of the North Sea. Opened in 1998, it boasts the largest aquarium tank in Northern Europe, holding 4.5 million litres of water and designed to mimic the open sea environment. The centre tank houses thousands of fish, including species such as cod, saithe, turbot, sea bass, spiny dogfish, skates, and the famous ocean sunfish. Beyond the main tank, the Oceanarium features twelve habitat tanks representing diverse North Sea environments, from sandy shores to deep fjords, each showcasing the corresponding native species in authentic settings. Themed tanks highlight unique marine animals and invertebrates, often accompanied by interactive bio-scanners for detailed observation. An outdoor Sealarium allows visitors to observe harbour and grey seals closely in a large, continually refreshed seawater pool. The Oceanarium combines educational exhibits with engaging experiences, making it a key attraction for families and marine enthusiasts alike.
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Astuce: For the best experience, visit during weekdays or outside peak holiday seasons to avoid crowds. Tickets can be purchased online in advance to ensure entry and potentially benefit from discounts. The outdoor Sealarium is particularly enjoyable on sunny days, and the aquarium offers special activities and demonstrations suitable for children. Check the official website for opening hours and any seasonal events before planning your visit.
Faits intéressants
- •The Oceanarium's main tank holds 4.5 million litres of water, making it the largest aquarium tank in Northern Europe.
- •It houses approximately 2,000 to 3,000 fish in its central tank, including the rare ocean sunfish, one of the largest bony fish species.
- •The Sealarium contains 800,000 litres of seawater that is continuously renewed to maintain optimal conditions for seals.
- •The Oceanarium features interactive bio-scanners that allow visitors to examine marine invertebrates in detail beyond what the naked eye can see.
Histoire
The North Sea Oceanarium was originally opened in 1998 as part of the Nordsøcentre complex in Hirtshals.
In December 2003, a severe fire destroyed the new building housing the Oceanarium.
After extensive reconstruction, it was reopened in July 2005, restoring its status as a major marine attraction in Denmark.
The Oceanarium was initially expanded from an earlier museum established in 1984, evolving into Northern Europe's largest aquarium facility.
Guide du lieu
The Centre Tank1998
This elliptical tank measures 22 by 33 metres and holds 4.5 million litres of water, designed to replicate the open sea habitat of the North Sea. It showcases large schooling pelagic fish such as cod, saithe, turbot, sea bass, spiny dogfish, skates, and ocean sunfish, offering visitors an immersive underwater experience.
Habitat Tanks1998
Twelve smaller tanks ranging from 4,000 to 16,000 litres each represent various North Sea habitats, from sandy shores near jetties to the deep muddy seafloor of the Norwegian Trench. Each tank contains species native to that specific environment, with efforts to recreate authentic seabeds and surroundings.
Theme Tanks
These tanks feature special exhibitions and marine animals that are difficult to display elsewhere, including invertebrates highlighted in exhibitions like 'Creepy Crawlies'. Bio-scanners enable detailed viewing of these creatures, enhancing educational value.
Sealarium1998
An outdoor seal pool containing 800,000 litres of seawater where visitors can observe harbour seals and grey seals native to Danish waters. The pool's water is continuously renewed, and underwater tunnels provide close-up views of the seals' agile movements.
Contact
Téléphone: 98 94 44 44
