The museum holds one of the largest private collections of seashells in South America.
It features a complete skeleton of a Southern Right Whale, one of the primary focal points of the collection.
The institution is officially recognized by the Brazilian Ministry of Education and Ministry of Culture for its scientific contribution.
The collection includes rare specimens of sharks, rays, and deep-sea organisms collected through Univali's research vessels.
The museum serves as a critical repository for studies on the marine megafauna of the Atlantic coast.
Many of the specimens were collected during decades of oceanographic expeditions conducted by the university.
The Oceanographic Museum Univali (MOVI) is one of the largest oceanographic museums in the Americas, located in Balneário Piçarras. It houses an extensive collection dedicated to marine biodiversity, featuring over 100,000 cataloged items. The facility is managed by the University of Vale do Itajaí (Univali) and serves both as a public attraction and a research center. Key displays include complete skeletons of cetaceans, an expansive shell collection, and numerous preserved marine species. The museum focuses on the educational preservation of the marine environment through its curated scientific exhibits. It is recognized for its role in oceanographic research in Southern Brazil.
Beside the large whale skeleton exhibit which provides an impressive sense of scale.
Allocate time to read the detailed scientific placards, as they provide significant context for the biodiversity displayed.
Check the official website for temporary exhibition changes before arrival.
The museum layout is expansive; wear comfortable walking shoes.
Rushing through the exhibit halls; the density of the collection requires a slow pace to appreciate the scientific depth.
Closed on Mondays.
Maintain a quiet volume and avoid touching glass displays to preserve the integrity of the sensitive specimens.
