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Discover the Bournemouth Oceanarium Experience for Just $20.86
The Bournemouth Oceanarium offers a lively and engaging visit for all ages, with entry tickets priced at $20.86 per person. Valid for one full day, visitors can explore the diverse marine displays at their own pace, making it a flexible option for families, couples, and solo explorers alike. Located in Dorset, United Kingdom, this attraction is right in the heart of Bournemouth, making it easy to incorporate into a day of sightseeing.
From fantastic underwater exhibits to captivating animal feedings and presentations, the Oceanarium emphasizes interactive fun and education. The tour is especially suitable for those interested in marine life from around the world, with highlights like penguins, otters, sharks, and turtles. While the ticket price covers most activities, note that personalized feedings and retail options are not included. The one-day validity invites visitors to plan a full, leisurely exploration without feeling rushed.
You can check availability for your dates here:Key Points
- Affordable full-day access for $20.86 per person
- Highlights include penguins, otters, sharks, and turtles
- Includes feedings and presentations to enhance the experience
- Located centrally in Bournemouth, Dorset
- Wheelchair accessible with flexible booking options
- Last entry is at 5 PM, so plan your day accordingly
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The Bournemouth Oceanarium: A Clear Overview
This attraction showcases marine life from various global regions, including the Amazon rainforest, Peru’s Humboldt current, and Key West waters. Visitors can expect a comprehensive display of sea creatures with exhibits focused on different ocean environments. The Shark Reef Tunnel is a major feature, where nine black tip reef sharks, moray eels, and a Loggerhead Turtle are on display. These exhibits stand out for their visual impact and educational value.
The Oceanarium’s all-day ticket allows guests to enjoy the exhibits at a relaxed pace, with opportunities to watch scheduled feedings and presentations that bring the marine animals to life. The tour’s main attraction lies in its diverse collection of marine species and the chance to observe animals in their themed habitats. The admission ticket does not include paid experiences like personalized feedings or retail shopping, so visitors should plan accordingly.
Exploring the Amazon and Other Themed Exhibits
One of the most captivating sections is the Amazon exhibit, where visitors can learn about the mysterious river and its teethed fish. The undergrowth theme immerses guests in the dark depths of this vital ecosystem. The exhibit shines a light on less familiar aquatic species, providing insights into their adaptations and habitats.
Contrast this with Key West waters, which are warm and lively, teeming with colorful fish. Each exhibit aims to educate and entertain, making the Oceanarium a perfect destination for family outings. The Amazon and Key West displays serve as excellent educational tools, especially for children interested in wildlife and ecosystems.
Penguin Colony: Playful and Engaging
The colony of penguins is a highlight that delights visitors of all ages. Known for their playful behavior and adorable appearances, these penguins are kept in naturally themed habitats that mimic their native environments. Visitors appreciate watching them swim and waddle, with some reports mentioning head-over-flippers admiration for these charming birds.
The penguin exhibit is not only entertaining but also serves as an important educational feature, highlighting conservation efforts. The interactive presentations and feeding times often include penguins, adding to the engagement level for families.
More Great Tours NearbyOtter Oasis: Watching Playful Otters
Another crowd favorite is the Otter Oasis, where playful otters swim and perform in an environment designed to mimic their natural habitat. The adorable otters are known for their lively antics, and visitors enjoy watching them swim and play. This exhibit offers a relaxed atmosphere for animal observation, giving guests a chance to connect with these intelligent creatures.
The otters’ habitat is designed to resemble their natural environment, with plants and water features enhancing the experience. The feeding times and presentations often include otters, providing educational insights into their behavior and conservation needs.
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The Shark Reef Tunnel: Close Encounters with Predatory Fish
The Shark Reef Tunnel is a defining feature of the Oceanarium, offering a immersive walkthrough experience. Visitors walk through a curved tunnel, surrounded by swimming sharks, moray eels, and a Loggerhead Turtle. The nine black tip reef sharks are especially striking, and the glass walls provide a spectacular view of predatory fish in action.
This attraction is ideal for those wanting a thrilling marine encounter without leaving the facility. The tunnel’s design allows for up-close viewing, making it a must-see feature for lovers of marine predators and aquarium enthusiasts.
Accessibility and Practical Details
The Bournemouth Oceanarium is wheelchair accessible, ensuring that guests with mobility needs can enjoy the exhibits comfortably. Last entry is at 5 PM, so visitors should arrive early enough to explore everything at a relaxed pace.
Tickets are non-transferable and non-refundable, emphasizing the importance of checking availability before booking. Wi-Fi limitations on-site mean that digital tickets must be downloaded beforehand for entry. The tour does not include food, drinks, or retail shopping, so visitors should plan to bring snacks or buy outside if needed.
Booking, Cancellation, and Flexibility Options
Booking tickets is straightforward, with options to reserve and pay later, offering flexibility for travel plans. The full refund policy allows cancellations up to 24 hours in advance, providing peace of mind. This makes it easier to fit the Oceanarium into spontaneous or planned visits, especially for families or day-trippers.
Who Will Enjoy the Bournemouth Oceanarium Most?
The full-day access makes this attraction ideal for families with children, who enjoy penguins, otters, and interactive exhibits. The educational presentations and visual displays are also well-suited for school groups or marine enthusiasts.
While the exhibits are generally suitable for all ages, those seeking a quick visit may find the small aquarium a bit limited, as some reviews suggest. Still, the affordable price point and diversity of marine life make it a worthwhile outing for anyone interested in sea creatures.
Final Thoughts on Bournemouth Oceanarium
The Bournemouth Oceanarium offers a compact, engaging, and informative experience for anyone interested in marine animals. Its diverse exhibits and scheduled feedings provide a fun and educational backdrop for a day out. The $20.86 ticket price offers good value for money, especially considering the variety of species on display.
While some visitors note that the small size of certain exhibits might limit the visit duration, the overall experience remains worthwhile, especially for families or marine lovers. The central Bournemouth location makes it easy to combine with other sightseeing or seaside activities.
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Bournemouth Oceanarium Ticket
“It was a really nice experience, my toddler really enjoyed seeing the penguins, all the fish, and playing on the small playground of course!”
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Bournemouth Oceanarium suitable for children?
Yes, the exhibits like the penguin colony and otter oasis, along with scheduled feedings, are especially appealing for children. The small playground adds further entertainment.
What is included in the ticket price?
The entry ticket grants all-day access to exhibits and presentations. It does not cover personalized feedings or retail purchases.
Are the tickets refundable?
Yes, tickets can be cancelled up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. They are non-transferable.
Is the Oceanarium accessible for guests with mobility issues?
Absolutely, the facility is wheelchair accessible.
What are the opening hours?
Last entry is at 5 PM, so plan your visit accordingly to enjoy the full experience.
The Bournemouth Oceanarium stands out as an affordable, family-friendly attraction that brings marine life to life through diverse exhibits and engaging presentations. With flexible booking options and a central location, it’s a solid choice for a fun and educational day in Dorset.
You can check availability for your dates here:
