NausicaĆ” National Sea Centre
Hauts-de-France
NausicaĆ” National Sea Centre, located in Boulogne-sur-Mer in northern France, is Europe's largest public aquarium and a leading center for marine scientific discovery. Opened in 1991, it attracts over 800,000 visitors annually and is renowned for its extensive aquariums, terrariums, and educational exhibitions. The centre focuses on the relationship between humans and the marine environment through immersive exhibits such as the Tropical Lagoon, Shark Aquarium, and Sea Lion Reserve. A major expansion in 2018 introduced "The High Seas" gallery, featuring a massive 10 million litre tank that houses large pelagic species including manta rays and oceanic sunfish, with an 18-meter shark tunnel and a large viewing window. NausicaĆ” also integrates advanced technologies like interactive touchscreens and a geolocation mobile app to enhance visitor engagement. The centre combines entertainment, education, and scientific research, with a mission to promote ocean conservation and awareness. It hosts a variety of permanent and temporary exhibitions, including "Mankind and Shores" and "Voyage en Haute Mer," and offers interactive experiences focused on climate change and sustainable ocean stewardship. NausicaĆ” also leads in coral breeding and marine animal care, recognized by UNESCO as a Centre of Excellence.
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Tip: Visit during weekdays or outside school holidays to avoid crowds and enjoy a more relaxed experience. Booking tickets online in advance is recommended, especially for guided tours and special activities. The centre offers discounts for families, groups, and annual memberships. Take advantage of scheduled feedings and interactive shows like the sea lion training and penguin encounters for an engaging visit. Accessibility services and educational workshops are available, making it suitable for all ages and visitor types.
Interesting facts
- ā¢NausicaĆ” is the largest public aquarium in Europe and ranks fifth worldwide by aquarium size.
- ā¢The 2018 expansion increased the aquariumās total water volume from 4.5 million to 17 million litres.
- ā¢It features an 18-meter-long shark tunnel inside the massive pelagic tank.
- ā¢NausicaĆ” was awarded a UNESCO Centre of Excellence designation in 1999 for its educational programs.
- ā¢The aquarium conducted the first successful surgery on a grey nurse shark in 2008.
- ā¢It is the largest European center for coral breeding.
- ā¢The name 'NausicaĆ”' refers to a Greek mythological princess and also alludes to the former casino on the site.
History
The idea for NausicaĆ” began in the early 1980s when the mayor of Boulogne-sur-Mer aimed to repurpose an old casino into a marine discovery center.
After preliminary studies by oceanographers and the selection of architect Jacques Rougerie, construction started in 1987 and the centre opened in 1991.
It was renamed NausicaĆ” after the Homeric princess.
The aquarium expanded significantly in 1998 and again in 2018, the latter tripling its exhibit space with the addition of the "High Seas" gallery.
Over the decades, NausicaĆ” has evolved into a major scientific, educational, and conservation hub, recognized by UNESCO and other organizations for its outreach and excellence in marine animal care.
Place Guide
The High Seas Gallery2018
This gallery features a colossal 10 million litre tank recreating the ecosystem of Malpelo Island, home to large pelagic fish such as manta rays, oceanic sunfish, and scalloped hammerhead sharks. Visitors can walk through an 18-meter shark tunnel and view the marine life through a massive 20 by 5 meter window, offering an immersive underwater experience.
Mankind and Shores Gallery1991 and expanded later
A collection of exhibits focused on the interaction between humans and marine environments, showcasing diverse habitats such as lagoons, coral reefs, and coastal ecosystems. It highlights environmental challenges and conservation efforts through educational displays and interactive media.
Submerged Tropical Forest2003
A unique exhibit housing spectacled caimans and other tropical species, designed to raise awareness about biodiversity and human impact on ecosystems. It is part of the "World House" concept aiming to encourage sustainable consumer habits.
Penguin Beach2006
Home to African penguins, this exhibit offers visitors a chance to observe penguin behavior and learn about their conservation. The first penguin hatching at NausicaĆ” occurred here in 2010.
Contact
Phone: 03 21 30 99 99
