The Oceanarium's shark population includes both Sand Tiger sharks and Sandbar sharks.
The aquarium holds 6 million liters of water in total across all exhibits.
It was the first aquarium in Spain to be built using a private initiative model in 1995.
The Mediterranean tank collection displays species ranging from the coastline to the open sea, including Neptune grass meadows.
The facility uses a specialized water treatment system that mimics natural tidal flows and biological filtration cycles.
It is a primary hub for the rescue and recovery of injured sea turtles found along the Catalan coast.
L’Aquàrium de Barcelona is the largest aquarium in Europe specializing in Mediterranean marine life. Its primary feature is an 80-meter underwater tunnel that runs through the Oceanarium, allowing visitors to observe sharks, rays, and moray eels from below. The facility houses over 11,000 animals representing 450 distinct species across 35 separate tanks. The Oceanarium itself contains 4 million liters of water and is one of the few in the world to simulate such a specific regional habitat. Beyond the Mediterranean tanks, the aquarium features a 'Planeta Aqua' exhibit dedicated to tropical ecosystems and the impact of climate change on oceans. Educational zones include interactive displays focusing on the biology of cephalopods and marine mammals. The facility serves as both a public attraction and a center for marine research and environmental conservation efforts in the Balearic Sea. It is integrated into the Port Vell infrastructure, accessible via a large footbridge known as the Rambla de Mar.
The mid-point of the main 80-meter glass underwater tunnel offers the most immersive perspective of the sharks overhead.
Visit the shark tunnel during morning hours to avoid the peak crowds that gather by midday.
Download the digital map in advance to locate specific habitat zones and feeding time schedules.
Check the daily event schedule at the entrance to see if any diver-led presentations are occurring in the main tank.
Do not wait to purchase tickets at the entrance; buying online is the only way to ensure entry on high-traffic days.
Maintain a quiet volume to avoid stressing the aquatic animals; flash photography is strictly prohibited near the tanks.
