The Bournemouth Beach Aquarium, also known as Oceanarium, is a captivating destination that offers visitors a chance to immerse themselves in the mesmerizing world of marine life. Located on the beachfront near Bournemouth Pier, this aquarium is a must-visit attraction for anyone exploring the beautiful Dorset coastline.
Explore the Shark Wreck Reef
One of the aquarium’s main highlights is the Shark Wreck Reef, a newly refurbished walk-through tunnel display with a shipwreck theme. This impressive exhibit holds 350,000 liters of saltwater and is home to over 75 different creatures, including several species of sharks, southern stingrays, moray eels, and a giant turtle. Visitors can get up close and personal with these fascinating marine animals, creating an unforgettable experience.
Discover Diverse Marine Life
The Bournemouth Beach Aquarium is a treasure trove of marine life, featuring a wide variety of species. Visitors can encounter sharks, stingrays, loggerhead turtles, otters, crocodiles, jellyfish, clownfish, and even Humboldt penguins. Each exhibit is designed to showcase the unique characteristics and behaviors of these incredible creatures, providing a deeper understanding and appreciation for the underwater world.
Enjoy the Oceanarium’s Facilities
In addition to the captivating exhibits, the Bournemouth Beach Aquarium offers a range of visitor amenities. The Offshore Café and Cove gift shop are open to all, providing stunning views of the bay, delicious food and drinks, and a selection of unique souvenirs. The aquarium is also accessible for all visitors, ensuring a comfortable and inclusive experience.
Ticket Prices and Discounts
The Bournemouth Beach Aquarium offers a variety of ticket options to suit different budgets and group sizes. The standard admission prices are as follows:
| Ticket Type | Price |
|---|---|
| Adult | £13.50 |
| Child (3-15 years) | £9.50 |
| Disabled Adult / Carer | £11.50 |
| Disabled Child | £8.50 |
| Family of 3 (2A + 1C) | £27.50 |
| Family of 4 (2A + 2C) | £29.95 |
| Family of 5 (2A + 3C) | £34.95 |
| Family of 6 (2A + 4C) | £39.95 |
| Senior | £11.50 |
| Student | £11.50 |
Visitors can also take advantage of discounted ticket prices by booking online in advance through the aquarium’s website.
Creature Feeding Experiences
For a truly immersive experience, the Bournemouth Beach Aquarium offers special creature feeding experiences. These unique opportunities allow visitors to get even closer to the marine life and witness the feeding process firsthand. However, these experiences must be pre-booked at least 5 days in advance.
Convenient Location
The Bournemouth Beach Aquarium is conveniently located next to Bournemouth Pier, on the beachfront, just a 5-minute walk from the town center. This prime location makes it easily accessible for visitors exploring the area.
Conclusion
The Bournemouth Beach Aquarium, or Oceanarium, is a captivating destination that offers a window into the wonders of the underwater world. With its diverse marine life, immersive exhibits, and visitor-friendly facilities, it is a must-visit attraction for anyone exploring the beautiful Dorset coastline. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, a family looking for a fun day out, or simply someone seeking to discover the magic of the ocean, the Bournemouth Beach Aquarium is sure to leave a lasting impression.
References:
– Tripadvisor Review
– Poole Tourism
– Oceanarium Website
– Bournemouth Tourism