Useful information
Driving time
50 min
Distance
78 km
At the entrance to the privateer city, between the wind-battered ramparts and the ever-moving sea, lies a unique place where the ocean depths come to life: the Grand Aquarium of Saint-Malo.
Known for its richness, immersive staging, and interactive experiences, the aquarium has become a must-visit for both young and old, curious to discover underwater life without getting wet.
🌊 A total immersion in aquatic worlds
Upon entering, the visitor is transported into a mysterious atmosphere. Dimmed lights, carefully crafted decor, the sound of water, luminous currents... Everything is designed to immediately immerse one in a soothing and fascinating universe. The Grand Aquarium offers around ten thematic worlds, spread across various natural marine environments.
One discovers cold seas where translucent jellyfish, giant crabs, wolf fish and other unusual species inhabit the depths of the Far North. Further on, the tropical seas offer an explosion of colours with clownfish, flying gurnards, butterfly fish, moray eels, and other brightly coloured creatures, undulating among the corals.
Paludariums, these spaces where freshwater meets lush vegetation, show us another side of the aquatic world. Piranhas, four-eyed fish, freshwater turtles, miniature mangroves… the humidity seems almost palpable.
⚓ The sunken galleon: a spectacular setting
Among the iconic worlds of the aquarium, the sunken galleon marks a turning point in the visit. Here, a genuine shipwreck is recreated underwater, immersing visitors in an atmosphere worthy of an adventure film. Behind the portholes, there are the white-tipped sharks, jacks, and other large marine fish gliding slowly around the carcass of the ghost ship.
The interplay of light, sound effects, and the depth of the decor create a total immersion. It is no longer just a simple aquarium: it is a living, unsettling, hypnotic scene.
🌀 The Ring of the Seas: the highlight of the show
This is undoubtedly the most striking moment of the visit: the Ring of the Seas. This gigantic circular aquarium of over 600,000 litres of water allows for a 360° view, in a dark room where only the reflections of the fish disturb the shadows.
Grey sharks, sea turtles, giant groupers and schools of fish swirl in a slow and fascinating ballet. One can sit on a bench, lean against the wall, or walk around in silence. Here, time seems suspended. There is something almost meditative about observing this aquatic world in perpetual motion, in impressive calm.
✋ The touch pool: a direct encounter with marine life
For the younger ones — and the big kids — the touch pool is a special moment. In this open space, you can gently touch starfish, sea spiders, or even small dogfish, these harmless sharks that can be found along our coasts.
This sensory approach makes the visit even more tangible. It allows for an understanding of marine animals beyond just sight: through touch, surprise, and interaction.
It is also an excellent tool for raising awareness of the fragility of marine life, through respect for species, gentle actions, and explanations provided on site.
🚤 Unique experiences in Europe
The Grand Aquarium of Saint-Malo is not limited to contemplation behind a glass. It offers two immersive attractions that are out of the ordinary and bring joy to families:
The Nautibus
Located in a separate room, the Nautibus is an experience that simulates a submarine dive. Aboard real mobile capsules, visitors are taken on a fictional exploration of the ocean depths. The portholes reveal a recreated marine universe, populated by real animals, fantastic creatures, and impressive underwater scenery.
It’s playful, original, and above all very immersive: you really feel like you’re setting off on a distant expedition.
The Abyssal Descender
Another attraction, the Abyssal Descender propels you thousands of metres below the surface in just a few seconds (virtually, of course). This deep-sea diving simulator offers a complete sensory experience: vibrations, sounds, lights, total darkness… everything is there to feel the pressure and mystery of the great depths.
🌍 A place committed to the oceans
Beyond its role as a source of entertainment, the Grand Aquarium is committed to raising awareness about the protection of the marine environment. It welcomes numerous classes and school groups each year, offers educational activities, explanatory sheets, and supports several concrete actions.
The aquarium is also linked to the Mer Fragile association, which works for the preservation of the Breton coastline and raising public awareness of ecological issues.
The visit is therefore also an opportunity to reflect on the impact of our actions, on the beauty but also on the fragility of the ecosystems we encounter.
📍 Where is the Grand Aquarium of Saint-Malo located?
The Grand Aquarium is located at the entrance of the town of Saint-Malo, just a few minutes' drive from the historic centre. Its access is well signposted, with a large car park nearby.
Here are some practical guidelines:
- It is open every day (including during school holidays and public holidays).
- The visit lasts on average 1.5 to 2 hours, or even a bit longer if you take the time to enjoy the activities.
- The site is fully covered and accessible to pushchairs and people with reduced mobility.
- You will also find a shop and a small dining area to extend your visit.
📎 N.B.: Timings may vary according to the season. To prepare for your visit, please consult the official website : www.aquarium-st-malo.com
📸 Some images of the place
Here are some previews to entice, to be inserted into the blog article with optimised ALT tags:
- Facade of the Grand Aquarium:
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Ring of the Seas :
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By ships :
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Tactile basin :
🧭 Conclusion: an underwater world accessible to all
The Grand Aquarium of Saint-Malo is much more than just an aquarium: it is a true journey under the sea, an experience rich in emotions, discoveries, and wonder.
Whether you are with family, in a couple, a nature enthusiast, or simply curious, you will come away with images in your head, a better understanding of the marine world, and perhaps... a new desire to protect the oceans.
