Face fearsome sharks, feed the giant turtles and explore the tanks full of colourful animals you never knew existed.
The Oceanarium is a chance to see and interact with remarkable marine life in large tanks. It stands out from most typical aquariums with its interactive elements, allowing you to meet and play with the animals. Try to identify the more than 150 species of fish, from sharks and stingrays to clownfish and pufferfish.
A tour of the aquarium should take between 1 and 2 hours. Peruse the mysterious tanks full of bizarre animals, such as the epaulette shark, the lionfish and the moray eel.
Look for opportunities to Meet the Creatures, when you are able to get close to the animals. Hold a tarantula or an iguana and touch the starfish and bearded dragons. The Feeding Experience is a hit with the kids, who are able to prepare food and offer it to turtles during a presentation.
Take on the Face Your Fears challenge to hold a python snake and learn about these cold-blooded enigmas. Become an aquarist by working with the Oceanarium’s team for an entire day. This adventure is the ideal way to learn about aquatic life. You’ll start with morning checks and maintenance before feeding and health checks.
Enjoy a snack at the Offshore Café, which has fantastic views of the sea. Sip coffee while watching the waves crash in front of you. Take the kids to the Cove Gift Shop, where you will find souvenirs and toys as well as upscale presents for adults.
The site is open daily from morning until late in the afternoon, although closing times vary depending on the time of year. There is an entrance fee, with discounts for kids, students and families.
The Oceanarium is near the beach in the centre of Bournemouth. Walk from the shops and bars of the city centre in just a few minutes. The neighbourhood has plenty of bus stops. Find Bournemouth Pier to the south and Bournemouth Lower Gardens to the north.
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