Visit to Nausicaá in Boulogne-sur-Mer: a memorable experience
Want to uncover the secrets and mysteries of the ocean?
If so, a visit to Nausicaá is sure to delight you! Between its ecology-focused exhibitions and the chance to observe marine species such as sharks, penguins, and various tropical fish, Nausicaá is the perfect place to spend a wonderful family moment.
Planning to spend a day or more on the Opal Coast? That’s perfect. To fulfill your desire for an escape, nothing beats a stroll along the Wimereux seawall or at the Cap Blanc-Nez. Just a few kilometers away, a visit to Nausicaá in Boulogne-sur-Mer will take you to the heart of the vastness of the marine world.
The visit to Nausicaá in Boulogne-sur-Mer, a moment full of emotions
Have you ever seen a giant turtle, or even the lord of the seas? If not, this is the perfect opportunity to make it happen! Your visit to Nausicaá in Boulogne-sur-Mer is sure to amaze you. The marine species there are numerous and unique. The National Sea Center promises you a truly immersive journey into the depths of the ocean. During your visit, you will be able to admire:
- rays;
- a colony of penguins;
- sea lions;
- jellyfish and comb jellies;
- tropical fish such as the Napoleon wrasse and the lyretail hogfish;
- reptiles and amphibians (gecko, chameleon, caiman, etc.);
- pelagic fish;
- cold-water, freshwater, or temperate fish;
- crabs, shrimps, and crustaceans;
- corals;
- starfish and sea urchins;
- 10 species of sharks;
- and more.
Have you ever touched the belly of a ray or the back of a small spotted dogfish? Around the touch pool, an iconic spot of the complex, children, adults (and big kids!) gather. Yes, indeed! For years, discovering these naturally curious animals has been a great success. So, are you ready to dip your hand into the touch pool?
The exhibitions and activities organized by the National Sea Center
Between raising awareness and preserving the marine world
Do you want to educate your children about the challenges facing the ocean and, more broadly, environmental issues? If so, don’t miss the exhibitions and activities offered by the marine center on the Opal Coast! These could include feeding the tropical lagoon, a virtual show about climate change, or the training of sea lions.Are you visiting the complex with your family? To guide children throughout their visit, Nausicaá has designed an educational booklet aimed at teaching and raising awareness of major marine themes in a fun way.Indeed, young visitors can step into the shoes of an animal keeper. To this end, various games are offered. Interested in the children’s booklet? You’ll find it in the Nausicaá shop.
Additional activities offered by the National Sea Center
To make your experience even more fascinating, you can also sign up for activities offered by the National Sea Center: Behind the Scenes at Nausicaá. That’s right! If you wish, the heart of the ocean can be fully accessible to you. For one hour, you’ll have the opportunity to observe aquarists in action, discover aquaristic reserves, and see the kitchens dedicated to preparing food for the fish. The “Coastal Investigation” activity. Would you like to end the day with an outdoor activity? The seashore is full of mysteries. Accompanied by a scientific mediator, your mission is to solve them. The activity takes place on the beach in Boulogne-sur-Mer and then in a scientific laboratory. “`Organizing your visit to Europe's largest aquarium
How to prepare for your visit to the National Sea Center? How long does a visit to Nausicaá take? What are the opening hours? In this article, Wimereux-Tourisme summarizes the essential practical details you need to know!
How to book your visit to Nausicaá?
You have two options to purchase your tickets for Nausicaá. You can go directly to the site or book them online. We strongly recommend choosing the online purchase. Why? This way, you can select the date and time of your visit. This means that even if you plan to come on a busy day, your spot is reserved. Additionally, once you arrive at the complex, you don’t have to wait in line: you can go directly to the access gates.
Would you like to visit Nausicaá multiple times a year? Consider subscribing to the annual membership!
How much does a visit to Europe’s largest aquarium cost?
There are several price ranges to choose from, including:
- The 1-day ticket. The ticket price is set at €28.50 for those over 12 years old and €21.50 for children aged 3 to 12 years. You will have access to all the exhibitions offered within the structure.
- Reduced rates. Discounted rates apply exclusively to individuals over 60 years old, job seekers, students, adults or children with disabilities, companions of disabled persons, and holders of a SNCF large family card. You will need to present proof of eligibility at the entrance check.
- The family offer. With this package, you benefit from a 15% discount when purchasing 4 or more tickets (1 adult ticket required). Please note, this offer is not valid during the summer period.
What are the opening hours of Nausicaá?
Ready for the visit to Nausicaá in Boulogne-sur-Mer? The National Sea Center is open:
- 7 days a week, from 8:30 AM to 6:30 PM.
- Please note, the complex is closed on December 25th and from January 10th to January 28th inclusive.
- Nausicaá is open on New Year’s Day but with reduced hours from 2:00 PM to 6:30 PM.
Now, there’s only one thing left to do: dive into the heart of the ocean. Nausicaá, the National Sea Center and the largest aquarium in Europe, is the perfect place to marvel and learn. A visit to Nausicaá in Boulogne-sur-Mer is truly an experience to live! Whether alone or with family, on vacation or for a weekend getaway, discover the coast and its stunning landscapes. Want to learn more about the Opal Coast? Check out the list of must-visit museums!