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Curaçao Sea Aquarium: An Underwater Adventure

Discover the wonders of the Caribbean Sea at Curaçao Sea Aquarium, where interactive exhibits, animal encounters, and conservation efforts create an unforgettable marine adventure for all ages.

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The Curaçao Sea Aquarium, opened in 1984, offers an unforgettable experience, bringing the vibrant Caribbean Sea to life. Unlike typical aquariums, it utilizes an open-water system, pumping fresh seawater directly into its tanks, creating a natural habitat for over 400 marine species. Visitors can explore diverse ecosystems, from seagrass beds to deep-water reefs, and witness fascinating creatures up close. Interactive experiences, such as animal encounters, feeding shows, and dolphin demonstrations, provide unique opportunities to connect with marine life. Beyond entertainment, the aquarium is committed to education and conservation, raising awareness about marine ecosystems and promoting responsible stewardship of the ocean. Whether marveling at colorful fish, encountering playful dolphins, or learning about coral reef preservation, the Curaçao Sea Aquarium promises an enriching and memorable experience for all ages.

A brief summary to Curaçao Sea Aquarium

  • Tuesday 8 am-5 pm
  • Wednesday 8 am-5 pm
  • Thursday 8 am-5 pm
  • Friday 8 am-5 pm
  • Saturday 8 am-5 pm

Local tips

  • Visit during the morning hours to avoid crowds and have a more relaxed experience.
  • Check the feeding schedule in advance to witness the exciting animal feeding sessions.
  • Consider booking animal encounters in advance, as they tend to fill up quickly.
  • Combine your visit with a trip to nearby Mambo Beach for a full day of fun and relaxation.
  • Wear comfortable shoes, as you'll be doing a lot of walking.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From Willemstad, the Curaçao Sea Aquarium is easily accessible by bus. Look for buses heading towards Mambo Beach. The ride takes approximately 15-20 minutes. Ask the driver to let you off near the Sea Aquarium, from where it's a short 5-minute walk. Bus fare is around $2 USD. Keep in mind that buses may run every two hours.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    Taxis and ride-sharing services are readily available in Willemstad. A taxi ride to the Curaçao Sea Aquarium will take about 10-15 minutes, depending on traffic. Expect to pay around $20-$30 USD for the trip. Confirm the fare with the driver before starting your journey.

  • Driving

    If driving from Willemstad, follow the signs towards Mambo Beach. The Curaçao Sea Aquarium is located near the beach. There is a large parking lot on Mambo Beach Boulevard where you can park for free. From the parking lot, walk towards the beach and turn left, following the road around Lions Dive Resort. You'll see the entrance to Sea Aquarium Park. Paid parking is available closer to the entrance across from LionsDive.

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Discover more about Curaçao Sea Aquarium

The Curaçao Sea Aquarium, a renowned attraction in Willemstad, Curaçao, offers an immersive journey into the mesmerizing underwater world of the Caribbean. Established in 1984 by Adriaan “Dutch” Schrier and Rudy Pizziolo, the aquarium distinguishes itself through its innovative open-water system, directly pumping seawater into its exhibits, creating a thriving, natural environment for its diverse marine inhabitants. Upon entering the aquarium, visitors are greeted by a vibrant display of marine life, showcasing over 400 creatures representing a wide array of Caribbean ecosystems. The Aquarium Hall features 46 tanks that replicate various marine habitats, from shallow seagrass beds to deep-water reefs, housing colorful fish, intricate corals, sponges, and other fascinating species collected from depths of up to 300 feet. Special exhibits highlight unique characteristics like camouflage and symbiotic relationships, featuring cleaning fish, lobsters, and seahorses. The Curaçao Sea Aquarium provides a unique opportunity to observe marine life up close without getting wet. The Underwater Observatory, a stationary semi-submarine, offers panoramic views of the Sea Aquarium lagoon, allowing visitors to witness divers hand-feeding marine life. The Ocean Lens experience allows visitors to descend 5.2 meters below sea level to view marine life through a large window. Interactive experiences are a hallmark of the Curaçao Sea Aquarium. Animal Encounters allow guests to snorkel or dive with stingrays, sea turtles, sharks, and other reef fish, offering an exhilarating and educational experience. Feeding shows provide opportunities to participate in feeding sharks, flamingos, and lobsters, while learning about their behaviors and diets. The popular sea lion show showcases the intelligence and agility of these marine mammals. Adjacent to the Sea Aquarium is the Dolphin Academy, where visitors can engage in a variety of dolphin interactions. From dolphin encounters to swimming with dolphins, these programs offer unforgettable experiences while promoting understanding and appreciation for these intelligent creatures. Certified scuba divers can also explore the Sea Aquarium Reef, a vibrant coral community just offshore from the facility. Beyond its entertainment offerings, the Curaçao Sea Aquarium is deeply committed to education and conservation. The aquarium aims to raise public awareness of marine life and the fragility of coral ecosystems through interactive educational programs for all ages. Activities include snorkel clubs, kid's encounters, dolphin studies, coral reef fish identification, and ecology dives. The aquarium also collaborates with conservation organizations to protect marine environments and promote sustainable practices. The Curaçao Sea Aquarium is located next to Mambo Beach, offering visitors the opportunity to combine their aquarium visit with other beach activities. The aquarium is open daily, and admission fees vary depending on the activities chosen. Whether you're a marine enthusiast, a family seeking an educational adventure, or simply looking to experience the beauty of the Caribbean Sea, the Curaçao Sea Aquarium promises an unforgettable journey into the underwater world. In June 2010, Substation Curaçao launched the Curasub, a certified mini-submarine, offering deep-sea explorations up to 1,000 feet. The Ocean Lens Guided Tour provides an exclusive look behind the scenes, explaining the unique Open Water System and the aquarium's conservation efforts. The Curaçao Sea Aquarium is more than just an aquarium; it's a multidimensional marine park that combines entertainment, education, and conservation. It's a place where visitors can connect with marine life, learn about the importance of protecting our oceans, and create lasting memories.

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