There are many famous aquariums in Barcelona, but one stands out. The best aquarium in Barcelona is the Barcelona L’Aquarium. In this article, we will take a deep dive into this place.
1. About Barcelona L’Aquarium
Barcelona L’Aquàrium is situated in the old harbour of Port Vell. It is one of the most renowned aquariums in Europe dedicated to studying Mediterranean sea life.
The Aquarium opened in 1995. Its sole purpose was to educate people about marine life. Also, it allows visitors to get a spectacular view of the underwater creatures by walking amongst them.
The Aquarium is built into 262 ft long tunnels underwater. You can explore over 450 marine species. They branch into an overall population of around 11,000 undersea animals.
Given the mind-blowing experience this place promises, it has become a significant tourist spot. It is also a leading leisure site in the city. There are around 66 aquarium facilities to house sharks, rays, and other large fish up to 36m in length.
Out of these, the Oceanarium is approximately 80 m long. It is also the largest and the most visited Aquarium in Barcelona. It gives our visitors a breath-taking experience of walking amongst sharks, rays, gilthead, moray eels and many other species.
2. Things to Know About Barcelona L’Aquarium
2.1. Planeta Aqua and Explora
Every year, many families crowd this place to get a taste of the marvellous experience the Aquarium provides. Sea creatures are a common fascination among children. Given that many children visit daily, Barcelona L’Aquarium always manages to educate the kids. And, at the same time, provide them with a fun experience.
Planeta Aqua and Explora teach the kids about Mediterranean undersea life and the need to preserve the Mediterranean ecosystem.
Planeta Aqua sheds light on the underwater ecosystem of differentiated zones. La vida en el frío(life in the cold) shows where Humboldt penguins reside. Also, the place has an exhibition on jellyfish hosted by a model sperm whale. Planeta Aqua and Explora is a must-visit for all thirsty adventure visitors. This place takes you back to the initial explorations.
2.2. Touring the Aquarium
The visiting hours of this place range between 10.00 a.m. – 7.00 p.m. It takes around an hour to complete a tour of the Aquarium. The entry also takes place through tickets. Given the significant number of visitors, ticket counters can get crowded. However, you can avail yourself of the provision for bypassing the ticket counter line by obtaining a premium pass.
Kindly visit the site of L’Aquarium Barcelona to learn more about the cost of tickets. To avail of such an offer would indeed be of great advantage. You save extra time and can use it to visit the nearby attractions. An expert guide comes with the deal.
If you are travelling with a senior citizen, fear not, as this place provides an equally enjoyable experience for them. There is wheelchair and stroller accessibility throughout the Aquarium. So, travelling to this place with a toddler is also convenient.
During the initial part of the tour, you can observe the Mediterranean surface ecosystems. When you continue, you delve into the deeper details. You can follow a variety of aquatic flora and fauna. Also, there is an aquarium dedicated to the Medes Island Marine Reserve. Due to its rich biodiversity, it forms a point of interest for marine research.
At the end of the tour, the visitors can grab a snack at the cafeteria. They can also click a picture with their family and take back a souvenir from the shop present.
2.3. Mediterranean Marine Conservation Center
The best way to conserve is by raising awareness. The L’Aquarium Barcelona follows its motto: “knowing to love, loving to protect, and protecting to conserve.” They educate people on the Mediterranean sea life and the need to protect it.
The centre consists of a laboratory and quarantine room with three main tasks. That includes receiving new species, mating the species, increasing the population and caring for sick animals. These functions require excellent intellect in the marine ecosystem.
So this place is well equipped with experts in this field to solve problems faced at any point. The centre has disinfection and parasite control. This ensures that no contaminants are passed on by the visitors arriving.
The water checks for minimal contamination regularly. That includes physical and chemical quality and the microbial content in water. They follow the previously mentioned steps to avoid any possible contraction of pathologies.
3. Experience With Sharks
As mentioned earlier, the Oceanarium is the place to witness sharks. There are a variety of activities. This Aquarium enhances your experience, which includes as mentioned below:
3.1. Shark Cage Diving
The visitors will dive into the Oceanarium, fully equipped with a scuba diving suit.
They will also be in a cage in the presence of an instructor. You can observe various undersea species in the Oceanarium and, of course, sharks.
3.2. Dive With Sharks
The participants will dive in a scuba diving suit accompanied by an instructor. They inform participants about the features of the Oceanarium. They emphasize about the dos and don’ts before the dive.
This is a fantastic experience. Also, it provides a chance to interact closely with the sharks.
3.3 Sleeping With Sharks
This experience is primarily for children to educate them more about sharks. How they breed, and how they behave at night. This experience is mainly meant for children. Nonetheless, adults are also welcome to try this out.
4. Final Note
Overall, the most famous Aquarium in Barcelona also provides visitors with a beautiful and memorable experience. If undersea creatures fascinate you, you should visit this place. Barcelona is also a beautiful city with much to offer in terms of culture and cuisine. Make sure to bring your friends and family and enjoy this fantastic place.
Last Updated on July 11, 2024 by Sathi Chakraborty
