Located in the charming coastal town of Boulogne-sur-Mer in Northern France, the Nausicaà Centre National de la Mer (known locally as Nausicaá - Centre national de la mer) is an awe-inspiring marine environment discovery center that will captivate your imagination and deepen your appreciation for the ocean. This magnificent center, which opened its doors in 1991, boasts the largest aquarium in Europe and is an essential destination for anyone passionate about marine life and ocean conservation.
The Nausicaà Centre National de la Mer is not just an aquarium; it's an immersive experience that combines education, entertainment, and environmental advocacy. The center is home to over 58,000 marine animals from around the globe, housed in various aquariums and terrariums, making it a vibrant and dynamic place to explore. With 17 million liters of seawater and tens of thousands of creatures, visitors can embark on a journey through the world's oceans without ever leaving France.
The center is divided into two main exhibitions: Des rivages et des Hommes (From Shores and Men) and Voyage en haute mer (Journey into the Deep Sea). The former is a historical exhibit that explores the relationship between humans and the sea, showcasing life in a lagoon, a coral reef, and a Californian reserve with sea lions. The latter, inaugurated in May 2018, features a colossal 10,000 cubic meter tank that replicates the ecosystem of Malpelo Island, making it the largest aquarium in Europe. This exhibit offers a mesmerizing view of marine life, from schools of colorful fish to majestic sharks gliding through the water.
Nausicaà is designed to be both engaging and educational, with a mission to foster a deeper understanding and love for the ocean. The center offers a variety of interactive experiences, including augmented reality immersions in the Grand Large exhibit, where visitors can dive into the high seas and witness the wonders of the deep. Additionally, the center's educational programs and workshops are perfect for school groups and families, providing hands-on learning opportunities about marine biology and conservation.
In 2022, Nausicaà signed a convention with the French Environment and Energy Management Agency (Ademe) to raise awareness about the importance of daily actions to protect the ocean and its resources. This partnership underscores the center's commitment to environmental conservation and sustainability. Visitors are encouraged to reflect on their impact on the ocean and learn practical ways to contribute to its preservation.
The idea for Nausicaà was conceived in 1976 by Guy Lengagne, who envisioned a center that would be more than just an aquarium. Over the years, the center has grown and evolved, receiving numerous accolades, including the designation of Centre of Excellence by UNESCO's Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission in 1998. The center continues to expand, with a new extension focused on the theme of the Arctic, set to open in 2028 with funding from the European Commission.
Beyond the main exhibitions, Nausicaà offers several smaller permanent and temporary exhibits. The Plage des manchots (Penguin Beach) exhibit, inaugurated in 2006, allows visitors to meet African penguins and learn about their habitat and conservation. The center also features a specialized media library, information spaces, video projection rooms, and conference halls, making it a hub for marine science and education.
No visit to Nausicaà would be complete without a stop at the on-site boutique, where you can find a wide range of marine-themed souvenirs, books, and gifts. The center also houses a restaurant, offering delicious meals with a view of the sea, allowing you to relax and reflect on your visit while enjoying the coastal ambiance.
With over 800,000 visitors annually, the Nausicaà Centre National de la Mer is the second most visited tourist attraction north of Paris, after Parc Astérix. Its blend of entertainment, education, and environmental advocacy makes it a unique and unforgettable destination for visitors of all ages. Whether you're a marine enthusiast, a family looking for an educational outing, or simply someone who appreciates the beauty of the ocean, Nausicaà offers an unparalleled experience that will leave you inspired and enlightened.
Plan your visit to the Nausicaà Centre National de la Mer and embark on a journey through the world's oceans, right in the heart of Boulogne-sur-Mer. Dive into the wonders of marine life, learn about the vital role of the ocean in our ecosystem, and discover how you can make a difference in protecting this precious resource for future generations.
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