Nordsøen Oceanarium
Northern Europe's largest aquarium
Northern Europe's largest aquarium in Hirtshals offers an exciting underwater adventure with 75 aquariums, over 7,000 sea creatures, and 16,000 m² of space. Explore shipwrecks, catch crabs, touch starfish, meet seals, and dive into the secrets of the North Sea. With experiences both indoors and outdoors, great sea adventures await!
Dive into the experiences:
A summer vacation filled with fun and learning—and (almost) real mermaids...
Spring brings new life to the North Sea Oceanarium, where guests can dive into the fascinating theme of eggs and youngsters. Here, the whole family gains a unique insight into the ocean's wild nursery and the many different ways life begins beneath the surface. Visitors can explore the many aquariums to find hidden egg capsules and spot the tiny fish that have just entered the world. It is an educational journey through nature's cycle, offering plenty of opportunities to learn about everything from the distinctive eggs of rays to playful seals in the spring sun. An inspiring day under the sea awaits all curious souls.
Summer at the Nordsøen OceanariumComing up this summer at Nordsøen Oceanarium
In the large outdoor area, children can run around on the playground or try their hand at crab fishing and amber hunting. Creativity can run wild at Værftet, while the ice cream shop tempts visitors with cold summer favorites for the whole family. At Sælariet, you can get up close to both gray seals and spotted seals during the daily feedings.
Inside, a fascinating underwater world unfolds with more than 75 aquariums and over 9,000 marine animals. Here, you can explore the touch tank or try your hand at the many educational, interactive experiences. The main highlight is the enormous Oceanarium, where a diver feeds sharks, rays, and thousands of schooling fish every day.
The Sea’s Pantry
During weeks 28–32, The Sea’s Pantry opens in the Lounge, focusing on all the exciting and delicious things the sea has to offer. Here, you can learn more about fish as food, try your hand at identifying different species, learn about sustainable fishing, and enjoy tastings.
Mermaid Days
From July 1–5, the experience becomes even more magical when the popular mermaids return to the Oceanarium with spectacular shows that captivate visitors of all ages.
After each show, the Mermaid Cave opens, where you can meet the mermaids, take a photo together, and take home a lasting memory. Admission to the Mermaid Cave requires an additional ticket, and there is a limited number available per event.
Did you know about the seals?
- The Sealarium is filled with 800,000 liters of seawater.
- Seals can sleep in the water and will automatically surface for air approximately every 5–6 minutes without waking up.
- An adult gray seal typically eats around 2–3 kg of food per day.
- The Oceanarium tank holds a massive 4.5 million liters of seawater.
- An adult harbor seal typically consumes between 3–5 kg of fish daily.
Exciting events for the whole family all year round
At the North Sea Oceanarium, exciting events are held all year round, ranging from the "Herring of the Year" to concerts and special exhibitions. Explore them all here.
