Ozeaneum, Stralsund

Nestled in the historic Hanseatic city of Stralsund, the Ozeaneum is a must-visit destination for marine life enthusiasts and families alike. This modern aquarium, part of the German Oceanographic Museum, offers a deep dive into the underwater worlds of the Northern seas and is a standout attraction on Germany's Baltic coast.

Opened in 2008, the Ozeaneum is housed in a sleek, architecturally striking building that has become a landmark in Stralsund's harbor. Its exhibits focus on the Baltic Sea, the North Sea, and the Atlantic Ocean, providing visitors with an immersive experience through a combination of state-of-the-art tanks, interactive displays, and educational programs.

The aquarium boasts several large tanks, the biggest of which holds 2.6 million liters of water and features a walk-through underwater tunnel, giving guests a feeling of being part of the ocean's depths. Here, one can observe a variety of sea creatures, including rays, cod, and the impressive school of herring that simulates a swirling bait ball.

One of the highlights of the Ozeaneum is the "1:1 Giants of the Seas" exhibition. It features life-sized models of whales, including an awe-inspiring 26-meter-long blue whale and a sperm whale family, which hang from the ceiling and offer a true sense of scale of these magnificent marine mammals.

The Ozeaneum is not only about entertainment but also about education and conservation. It provides valuable insights into the ecosystems of the Northern seas and the challenges they face, such as climate change and pollution. The museum plays an active role in marine research and promotes sustainability and ocean protection.

Practical information for visitors includes the availability of guided tours, a gift shop, and a café with views of the harbor. The Ozeaneum is open year-round, with varying seasonal hours, and tickets can be purchased for individual or combined experiences with the nearby Meeresmuseum, which is also part of the German Oceanographic Museum.