Galway Atlantaquaria, Ireland’s largest native species aquarium, is an incredible way to take in all the marine life of Ireland’s rivers, lakes, and the depths of the Atlantic Ocean.
Stunningly located in Salthill, where it overlooks Galway Bay, and within walking distance of a wealth of local beaches, parks, restaurants, the promenade and more, the Atlantaquarium is an unmissable part of the seaside experience in Galway.
Enjoy the Self-Guided Experience, and explore the ocean your way, getting right up close to the many native species in vibrant exhibits and displays.
See a host of species, including; Seahorses, Bass, Crabs, Spidercrabs, Ling, Wreckish and Colourful Wrasse over two floors of exhibits brought together under one roof.
The aquarium’s many features include innovative, cultural and heritage exhibits that connect visitors with our past, present and future understanding of life under the sea.
These include a great mix of artefacts such as a large 60 foot Fin Whale skeleton, Large Hy-Brasil boat and Red Deer Antlers.
Along with appreciating the abundance of marine life, the aquarium also prominently features many educational exhibits, designed to inform visitors on threats to the oceans in our care, such as marine litter and plastic pollution.
Visitors can improve their ocean literacy through a multimedia mix of signage, video, modern and historic exhibits.
The aquarium team have carefully curated these exhibits to present a comprehensive view of the world of water, through clear and interesting displays, with their friendly and helpful staff always prepared to assist visitors.
A dedicated Education Team at the Aquarium ensures that students of all ages at Pre-School, Primary, Secondary and Third Level can get the most out of this incredible resource.
The Aquarium hosts both School Tours and classes, which cover a wide array of topics across Ireland’s marine and freshwater environments, including Biodiversity, Sustainability, Environmental Awareness, Care and Ecology Investigations.
Galway Atlantaquaria is fully accredited with the European Association of Zoos and Aquaria (EAZA), so visitors can be assured they are seeing the very best professional standards in Animal Welfare, Education, Conservation, and Practice.
The Aquarium also supports Fáilte Ireland’s Local Experts Programme, and loves sharing the very best of the Wild Atlantic Way through its WAW Champions Training.
If you’re interested in exploring the amazing bounty of life in Irish waters, and want to learn
Check the aquarium out online at nationalaquarium.ie, or get in touch for more information about classes, tours, and events at 091 585 100 or by emailing info@nationalaquarium.ie.
With COVID-19 guidelines on social distancing in place, it is important to book your timeslot ahead of coming by, or gift a visit to a friend so they and their family can enjoy a day out.
For the latest updates on new and upcoming events and exhibitions, follow Galway Atlantaquarium on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
