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Zoos #1 in Boulogne-sur-Mer

Nausicaa Centre National De La Mer

4.4 · 44,679 reviews
Immersive, educational, and family-oriented
Nausicaa Centre National De La Mer, Bd Sainte-Beuve, 62200 Boulogne-sur-Mer, France
Interesting facts
1

The 'High Seas' tank is one of the largest in the world, replicating the ecosystem of Malpelo Island off the coast of Colombia.

2

Nausicaa is an UNESCO-recognized Centre of Excellence for marine education.

3

The aquarium's glass tunnel allows for 360-degree views of sharks and manta rays.

4

The facility uses sophisticated water filtration systems capable of processing millions of liters of seawater daily.

5

The penguin habitat includes a climate-controlled environment tailored to specific sub-Antarctic conditions.

6

Nausicaa participates in international breeding programs for endangered marine species.

Overview

Nausicaa is the largest aquarium in Europe, located in Boulogne-sur-Mer, France. The facility houses over 58,000 animals, ranging from small coastal species to large pelagic predators. Its signature feature is the massive 'High Seas' basin, which holds 10 million liters of water and features a 20-meter long transparent tunnel. The center functions as a global marine conservation hub, focusing on environmental education and the sustainable management of oceanic resources. Visitors can observe two major exhibition paths, 'In the Eye of the Climate' and 'Voyage on the High Seas', which simulate diverse aquatic ecosystems. The aquarium includes a significant penguin colony habitat with a dedicated viewing area. It is situated directly on the coastline overlooking the English Channel. The architecture was designed to resemble the shape of a giant manta ray.

Photo spot

Inside the transparent tunnel of the 'High Seas' tank for immersive shots of sharks and rays swimming overhead.

Insider tips

Book tickets online in advance to bypass queues, as entry numbers are managed during high-traffic periods.

Prioritize the feeding demonstrations, which occur at specific times throughout the day and provide insight into animal care.

Allow time to visit both main exhibition paths, as they are spread across different levels of the building.

What to avoid

Attempting to see the entire facility in less than three hours, which leads to rushing through the complex educational exhibits.

Good to know

Open daily, but occasionally closed for private events or maintenance in early winter; check the official calendar before arrival.

Plan your visit
Typical visit
4-5 hours
Best time to visit
Weekday mornings during the shoulder season to avoid peak summer crowds and school holiday congestion.
Address
Nausicaa Centre National De La Mer, Bd Sainte-Beuve, 62200 Boulogne-sur-Mer, France
50.730, 1.595
Get directions
Details
Key ExhibitsHigh Seas tank, Penguin colony, Sub-tropical lagoons
Conservation FocusMarine biodiversity protection and climate change awareness

Frequently asked

Plan for about 4-5 hours to see the highlights.

The best time to visit is Weekday mornings during the shoulder season to avoid peak summer crowds and school holiday congestion..

Inside the transparent tunnel of the 'High Seas' tank for immersive shots of sharks and rays swimming overhead.

Close by you'll find Boulogne marina, Basilica of Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception at Boulogne-sur-Mer, Boulogne-sur-Mer Castle-Museum.