Dolphinarium of Klaipėda
Klaipėdos apskritis
The Dolphinarium of Klaipėda is part of the Lithuanian Sea Museum located in Kopgalis, Klaipėda. It features a 1,000-seat auditorium and an 1800 cubic meter pool designed for performances by dolphins and California sea lions. The facility was originally designed by architect Petras Lapė, who incorporated innovative ideas inspired by aquariums in the United States, including a water system using filtered Baltic Sea water with controlled salinity. The dolphinarium opened on April 30, 1994, showcasing Black Sea bottlenose dolphins and sea lion shows to visitors. Since 2003, it has also hosted dolphin therapy sessions for children with autism, Down syndrome, and cerebral palsy. A significant reconstruction and expansion project was completed in 2013 after closure in 2010, enhancing the dolphinarium and establishing a dolphin therapy center as part of the broader marine leisure and wellness park in Kopgalis. This blend of entertainment, education, and therapeutic services makes the Dolphinarium a unique attraction on Lithuania's coast.
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Astuce: Visitors are advised to check the official website for the latest show schedules and book tickets in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons. The best time to visit is during warmer months when the facility is fully operational. Discounts may be available for families, children, and groups, and advance reservations for dolphin therapy sessions are recommended due to limited availability.
Faits intéressants
- •The dolphinarium's water system uses filtered Baltic Sea water, maintaining natural salinity and clarity.
- •It was one of the first institutions in Lithuania to offer dolphin therapy for children with developmental disorders.
- •The original architectural concept was inspired by aquariums in Boston, USA.
- •The facility includes a large 1,000-seat auditorium for visitors to enjoy performances.
Histoire
The Dolphinarium of Klaipėda was designed by architect Petras Lapė (1924–2012), who researched aquarium designs abroad before its construction.
The first dolphins arrived in 1993, and the dolphinarium officially opened in 1994.
It introduced dolphin therapy sessions in 2003, expanding its role beyond entertainment.
A major reconstruction project began in 2010 to modernize and expand the facility, culminating in its reopening in December 2013 with improved infrastructure and a dedicated therapy center.
Guide du lieu
Main Performance Pool1994
An 1800 cubic meter pool designed for dolphin and sea lion shows, allowing visitors to experience close encounters with marine mammals in a controlled environment.
Visitor Auditorium1994
A spacious hall with 1,000 seats designed to offer comfortable viewing of marine performances and educational presentations.
Dolphin Therapy Center2013
Established during the 2013 reconstruction, this center provides therapeutic sessions for children with autism, Down syndrome, and cerebral palsy using dolphin-assisted therapy.
Contact
Téléphone: (0-659) 61497