The museum is housed in a 19th-century defensive fortification known as Kopgalis Fortress, which was partially destroyed during World War II.
It is the only marine museum complex of its kind on the eastern coast of the Baltic Sea.
The dolphinarium utilizes a sophisticated water filtration system that mimics natural marine conditions for its resident animals.
The museum collection includes one of the largest displays of marine shells in the Baltic region, numbering over 20,000 specimens.
The open-air pools for seals and sea lions are directly connected to the Baltic Sea through underwater pipelines to ensure constant water circulation.
The Lithuanian Sea Museum is situated within the restored 19th-century Kopgalis Fortress at the northern tip of the Curonian Spit. The facility integrates an extensive maritime museum with an aquarium featuring Baltic Sea, tropical, and freshwater species. It is widely recognized for its dolphin and California sea lion performances held in a dedicated open-air pool. The museum houses a significant collection of maritime artifacts, including historical anchors, ship models, and navigation equipment. Large outdoor tanks exhibit grey seals, Baltic ringed seals, and Steller sea lions. The location is accessible primarily via ferry from the central Klaipėda port area. Educational programs focus on the marine biodiversity of the Curonian Lagoon and the Baltic Sea. The fortress itself remains a site of architectural interest, illustrating defensive military engineering from the Prussian era.
The upper ramparts of the Kopgalis Fortress offering a panoramic view of the Baltic Sea meeting the Curonian Lagoon.
Check the ferry schedule in advance, as travel to the Smiltynė side is only possible by water.
Arrive at the dolphin show arena early, as seating is unassigned and fills up quickly during peak season.
Plan your visit to include the outdoor exhibits first if the weather is clear, as they are uncovered.
Attempting to visit without checking the ferry crossing times, as this is the only way to reach the museum.
Closed on Mondays during the winter season; aquarium and dolphinarium operations may vary by season.
Refrain from using flash photography during animal performances to avoid disturbing the dolphins and sea lions.
