CretAquarium: Purpose, What To Do, and Location

CretAquarium, commonly known as the Thalassocosmos CretAquarium, is a popular attraction located on the island of Crete in Greece. CretAquarium is one of the biggest aquariums in Europe and provides guests with an opportunity to discover and educate themselves about the marine life of the Mediterranean Sea.

CretAquarium is located in the former American Base of Gournes, which is approximately 15 kilometres east of the city of Heraklion, the capital of Crete. CretAquarium’s proximity to the coast makes it attainable to have a direct connection to the water, which makes it easier to collect and maintain marine species.

CretAquarium’s main goals are to advance marine ecosystem-related education, conservation and research. The purpose of it is to increase public awareness of the value of preserving the marine environment and its biodiversity. CretAquarium in Crete offers a venue for academic study and sponsors family-friendly educational events to encourage visitors to understand better and appreciate marine life.

There are various experiences and activities available at Kreta Aquarium. Visitors get the opportunity to examine fascinating displays that highlight the Mediterranean Sea’s diversity. The exhibits give visitors a better understanding of many environments and the amazing marine life that calls them home, from rocky coastlines to seagrass beds and coral reefs. Visitors see different aquatic life, including sharks, rays, sea turtles and colourful fish species.

CretAquarium offers seminars and workshops led by marine biologists and specialists in addition to viewing the exhibits. The educational lectures offer insightful information about animal behaviour, marine conservation and the difficulties marine life encounters in their natural environments. The aquarium hosts diving and snorkelling tours that let visitors explore the open ocean and see marine species in their native habitats.

What is CretAquarium in Crete?

CretAquarium, commonly known as Thalassocosmos CretAquarium or Kreta Aquarium, is a premier attraction located on the island of Crete in Greece. CretAquarium is one of the biggest and most well-known in Europe and it enthrals visitors with its immersive look at Mediterranean marine ecology.

CretAquarium is a top-notch aquarium that provides an exceptional experience for nature lovers, families and everyone interested in marine life. It is a portal to the captivating underwater world, allowing tourists to learn about the Mediterranean Sea’s abundant biodiversity.

The extensive collection of expertly crafted exhibits at CretAquarium highlights the maritime environments and species that call them home. Each exhibition showcases a distinctive habitat and offers an instructive voyage through the wonders of the water, from vivid coral reefs filled with colourful fish to quiet seagrass beds and rocky coastlines.

CretAquarium is home to diverse marine species, including fearsome sharks, graceful rays, peaceful sea turtles and countless more intriguing animals. Visitors look closely at the gorgeous animals and learn more about their behaviour, adaptations and ecological importance.

CretAquarium is more than just an aquarium that displays marine life. It adopts a multidimensional strategy that blends recreation, instruction and environmental preservation. The aquarium seeks to promote awareness of protecting the marine environment and cultivate a sense of responsibility through interactive exhibits, enlightening seminars and fun activities.

CretAquarium actively promotes scientific investigation and works with marine biologists and specialists. The aquarium plays a crucial role in expanding human’s understanding of marine ecosystems and their difficulties by contributing to current studies and initiatives.

Where is CretAquarium Located in Crete?

Below is an image of CretAquarium’s map.

CretAquarium, commonly known as Thalassocosmos CretAquarium or Kreta Aquarium, is located on the island of Crete in Greece. CretAquarium is located near the former American base of Gournes, which is located about 15 kilometres to the east of Heraklion, the capital of Crete.

Visitors quickly get to CretAquarium once they have arrived in Heraklion using various modes of transportation, including personal vehicles, taxis or public buses. Visitors get to take in the stunning coastal environment and discover other attractions nearby because of the aquarium’s location close to the coast. CretAquarium is situated in the former American Base of Gournes and offers a fascinating aquatic experience while being conveniently located near Heraklion for visitors exploring the island of Crete.

What is the Purpose of CretAquarium in Crete?

The purpose of the CretAquarium is multifaceted and revolves around education, conservation and research related to marine ecosystems in Crete and the Mediterranean Sea. The Cretaquarium aims to enhance knowledge of the marine environment and its richness. CretAquarium seeks to arouse greater regard and admiration for marine life in visitors of all ages through its exhibits, interactive displays and educational events.

One of CretAquarium’s main goals is to educate the public about the importance of marine conservation. The aquarium aims to promote a sense of responsibility and encourage sustainable behaviours to maintain aquatic ecosystems by highlighting the beauty and diversity of the Mediterranean Sea. It offers a venue for bringing attention to issues affecting marine life, such as overfishing, habitat degradation and pollution.

CretAquarium actively supports research activities in conjunction with marine biologists and specialists, in addition to education. The aquarium seeks to advance scientific understanding of marine habitats and species in the Mediterranean Sea. The research facilitates a better comprehension of the intricate relationships throughout marine environments and contributes to conservation efforts.

CretAquarium serves as a hub for conservation initiatives. CretAquarium participates in campaigns to protect endangered species, treat injured animals and advance sustainable lifestyles. The aquarium is vital to promoting the preservation of marine habitats and bringing attention to the vulnerability of such ecosystems.

What Animals Are in CretAquarium?

The CretAquarium is home to various aquatic creatures from the Mediterranean Sea, including sharks, sea turtles, octopuses, seahorses, jellyfish and different invertebrates. Visitors to the aquarium explore and take in the vast biodiversity of the area’s marine ecosystems by viewing the astonishing collection of animals on display there.

Sharks are one of the principal species seen in CretAquarium. Sharks include the nurse shark or “Ginglymostoma cirratum”, and the sand tiger shark or “Carcharias taurus”. Rays are another attraction, with species such as the common stingray or “Dasyatis pastinaca”, and the spotted eagle ray or “Aetobatus narinari”, gliding gracefully through the water.

Sea turtles are a prominent feature of the CretAquarium. Visitors come across animals, including the green sea turtle or “Chelonia mydas”, and the loggerhead sea turtle or “Caretta caretta”. Such creatures serve as ambassadors for marine conservation and are prized for their beauty.

The aquarium is filled with a variety of vibrant fish species. Visitors are in amazement at the astounding variety of colours and patterns displayed by such marine residents, from the vivid yellowtail damselfish, “Chrysiptera parasema”, to the captivating Mediterranean parrotfish, “Sparisoma cretense”.

How Many Species Lived in the CretAquarium in Crete?

There are more than 200 species living in the CretAquarium in Crete. The aquarium has diverse fish species, including groupers, breams, wrasses and sea bass. Visitors see various shark and ray species, as well as fascinating jellyfish. The aquarium’s conservation activities include sea turtles, particularly the loggerhead turtle.

CretAquarium features unique marine species, including octopuses, cuttlefish and Mediterranean monk seals, in addition to the well-known species. Aquarium Crete’s species diversity is carefully selected to give an immersive and informative experience, allowing visitors to enjoy the Mediterranean Sea’s extraordinary biodiversity and understand its importance.

What To Do in CretAquarium?

Listed below are several engaging activities and experiences to do in CretAquarium.

• Explore the Exhibits: Explore the aquarium’s exhibits, which feature various marine environments and species. Visit the aquatic life closely to see fish, sharks, rays, sea turtles and other fascinating creatures.
• Attend Presentations and Seminars: Marine scientists and other specialists offer frequent presentations and seminars at CretAquarium. The seminars provide insightful information about animal behaviour, maritime conservation and marine life’s difficulties in their natural environments.
• Dive or Snorkel in the Open Sea: CretAquarium offers the opportunity to experience the open sea if visitors are certified divers or snorkelers. Participate in planned diving or snorkelling excursions with knowledgeable instructors to see marine life in its native habitat.
• Participate in Interactive Exhibits: CretAquarium offers interactive exhibits that allow visitors to touch particular aquatic creatures. Participate in such exhibits to learn more about the distinctive qualities and adaptations of marine animals.
• Visit the Children’s Area: The aquarium includes a separate area for kids with engaging interactive exhibits and educational games that teach about marine life. Children learn about marine conservation in a fun and engaging setting.
• Relax and Enjoy the Views: Take time to unwind and appreciate the breathtaking views of the shoreline. The seaside CretAquarium has outdoor seating spaces where one unwinds, enjoys the view and sips refreshments from the on-site café.
• Capture Memorable Moments: Bring a camera or smartphone to record special moments while visiting there. The marine life and aquarium exhibits make for excellent photo ops.
• Purchase Souvenirs: Browse the CretAquarium gift shop for marine-themed trinkets, books and other keepsakes to remember the experience.

What are the Hotels near in CretAquarium?

Listed below are the hotels near CretAquarium.

• Creta Beach Hotel & Bungalows: The beachfront hotel provides pleasant rooms, various eating options, a swimming pool and simple access to the beach. Creta Beach Hotel & Bungalows is situated next to CretAquarium.
• Galaxy Hotel Iraklio: Galaxy Hotel Iraklio offers chic accommodations, a rooftop pool, a fitness facility and various eating options. Galaxy Hotel Iraklio is located in the middle of Heraklion. It takes about 20 minutes to get there from CretAquarium.
• GDM Megaron Hotel: GDM Megaron Hotel is located in a historic structure close to the Heraklion waterfront. Elegant accommodations, a rooftop pool with panoramic views, a spa and a restaurant are all available. It’s just a short trip to CretAquarium.
• Lato Boutique Hotel: Lato Boutique Hotel is close to the waterfront in Heraklion and provides guests with cosy accommodations and convenient access to the city’s finest sights from its rooftop restaurant and bar. The drive to CretAquarium from the hotel takes about 15 minutes.
• Olive Green Hotel: Olive Green Hotel is located in the heart of Heraklion and offers up-to-date accommodations, a rooftop terrace, a restaurant and a fitness facility. Olive Green Hotel is an ideal starting point for seeing the city and going to CretAquarium.
• Lyttos Beach Hotel: Lyttos Beach Hotel is a 4-star all-inclusive resort located in Hersonissos, about a 30-minute drive from CretAquarium and it offers a variety of lodging options, including rooms, suites and bungalows. The hotel features a spa, multiple pools, sports facilities and dining options.
• Civitel Creta Beach Hotel: Civitel Creta Beach Hotel is located in Amoudara, just a short drive from CretAquarium. There are several swimming pools, a restaurant, nice rooms with views of the sea or gardens and convenient access to the beach.
• Apollonia Beach Resort & Spa: Apollonia Beach Resort & Spa is a five-star beachfront resort located in Amoudara and features opulent rooms and suites, numerous swimming pools, a spa, restaurants and various recreational activities. The resort offers a luxurious and tranquil lodging choice close to CretAquarium.
• Capsis Astoria Heraklion Hotel: Capsis Astoria Heraklion Hotel is a 4-star hotel located in the centre of Heraklion and is about a 20-minute drive from CretAquarium. The hotel provides amenities, including a fitness centre and a rooftop pool, pleasant rooms and an on-site restaurant.

How Much is the Ticket for CretAquarium?

The general admission ticket for CretAquarium in Heraklion costs approximately €6 to €12 per person. Children aged 0 to 4 have free entrance, while children between the ages of 5 and 17 and anyone over 65 are charged a reduced entrance cost of €6. The Virtual Reality experience is an extra €5.

There is discounted pricing available for groups larger than 20 people. Concessions are €6 per person, while adults pay €8. Students get a discount of €6. Access is free for people with disabilities, aquarium members and tour guides.

CretAquarium offers supplementary services for an additional fee. A more educational experience is provided by audio guide devices, which are available for €3. A tour with a private guide accommodating up to 20 people, is an option available to visitors for €100 in addition to the entrance price. Behind the Scenes Guide Tours are available for €150 plus the entrance price and accommodate up to 10 people. A customised tour for children is available for €100 plus the ticket charge and accommodates up to 20 youngsters.

How Long Can You Stay in the CretAquarium?

The duration of the stay at CretAquarium is entirely up to the visitors’ discretion, allowing them to customise their trip according to their interests and the amount of time they choose to spend getting an immersive marine experience. Visitors are allowed to take their time and move through the displays at their own pace to immerse themselves thoroughly in the marine environment.

CretAquarium’s layout is intended to take guests on an enthralling journey where they learn about different marine environments and see a variety of creatures. Visitors take more time at exhibits that interest them personally or, if they choose, walk through the aquarium more quickly due to the freedom of self-guided exploration.

Allot 1-2 hours to properly enjoy the exhibits and participate in CretAquarium’s educational features. The time gives visitors a decent amount of time to look around the aquarium, see marine life and participate in additional activities or presentations.

How Many People Can CretAquarium Accommodate?

The CretAquarium has the capacity to host 250,000 guests annually and each visit lasts around an hour. The CretAquarium’s approximately 5,000 square metres of space provide plenty of room for exploration and interaction with its exhibits. The precise number of visitors that CretAquarium holds at any given time changes depending on elements, including visitor volume, seasonality and any rules or limits that are put in place. The aquarium’s layout is designed to host many guests comfortably.

The facility has exhibits with various marine ecosystems, interactive displays and learning spaces. The design was carefully considered to enable a smooth flow of visitors and reduce congestion at busy times. CretAquarium’s spaciousness and capacity accommodate many visitors simultaneously, providing an entertaining and immersive experience for individuals, families and organised groups.

What are the Operating Hours of CretAquarium?

CretAquarium operates from 9:30 a.m. to 9:00 PM every day of the week from April 1 through October 31 during the summer season, giving visitors more time to experience the aquatic exhibits and events. The aquarium is open from 9:30 AM to 5:00 PM from November 1 through March 31 during the winter, giving visitors plenty of time to explore the fascinating aquatic world. The opening hours are subject to change. Visitors make the most of their time at CretAquarium by planning their visit appropriately and verifying the operation hours.

What are the Rules Inside CretAquarium?

Listed below are the rules inside CretAquarium.

• Refrain from touching the glass or upsetting the aquatic life in the exhibits out of respect for them. Keeping a safe distance and adhering to any staff-issued directions is crucial.
• Flash photography is not allowed to prevent upsetting marine animals. Taking photos without a flash for personal use is typically acceptable. See if any specific rules or limitations exist for taking pictures at the aquarium.
• Stay on authorised walkways and routes to guarantee a smooth flow of people and avoid overcrowding. All guests continue to have a pleasant stay due to it.
• Reduce noise levels to preserve the peacefulness of the space. The entire experience for visitors is improved, while the stress on aquatic wildlife is reduced.
• Do not feed the creatures in the displays. The aquarium crew has established diets and feeding schedules to ensure their welfare.
• Outside pets or animals are not permitted within CretAquarium, except service animals. The policy guarantees the visitors’ comfort and the protection of the animals in the exhibits.

Is the CretAquarium the Best Place for Kids?

Yes, CretAquarium is an excellent place for kids. CretAquarium has various attractions and activities developed primarily to interest and educate youngsters about marine life. Children that visit the aquarium are captivated by the exhibits’ intriguing displays of many marine animals in their natural settings. Children have the opportunity to see beautiful animals up close, including fish, sharks, rays and sea turtles, encouraging awe and curiosity.

A separate children’s area with engaging exhibits and kid-friendly educational games is available at CretAquarium. The events are designed to make learning about marine life more enjoyable and participatory, allowing children to actively interact with the exhibits and better understand the undersea world.

Children learn about conservation, animal behaviour and the value of conserving the marine environment at the aquarium’s kid-friendly presentations and workshops, which marine biologists and other professionals lead. Children benefit from such educational experiences by gaining a deeper understanding of marine life and being motivated to protect the oceans.

Are there Cafeteria Inside CretAquarium?

Yes, there is a cafeteria inside CretAquarium. The CretAquarium has a cafeteria where guests unwind with drinks and light fare while they are there. The cafeteria is a handy place for guests to stop for a break, a snack or a meal while touring the aquarium. The cafeteria provides a selection of snacks, sandwiches, salads, drinks and desserts, among other food and beverage alternatives. It’s an opportunity to revitalise and refuel before or following immersion in the exciting aquatic exhibitions.

Visitors look at additional meal options in the neighbourhood and the café inside CretAquarium. The culinary scene of Heraklion, the capital of Crete, is known for its vibrant culinary scene and there are numerous cafés close by that provide various cuisines and eating experiences. Exploring the local Heraklion restaurants is a great way to complement their visit to CretAquarium with a satisfying meal or snack.

Are there Parking Spots in the CretAquarium?

Yes, there are parking spots available at CretAquarium. Parking lots are available at CretAquarium for visitors arriving in personal vehicles. Visitors leave their cars in the parking spaces and conveniently explore the aquarium. Visitors park conveniently and safely at CretAquarium due to its parking facilities, which hold a set number of vehicles. The number of parking spaces varies based on the time of day, season and number of visitors.

Parking choices are available in the Heraklion neighbourhood and the parking areas at CretAquarium. Heraklion is a well-liked vacation spot with many parking options, such as open parking lots and on-street parking, where tourists leave their cars while visiting the city and its attractions. It is advised to research neighbouring parking places in Heraklion or consider the parking opportunities offered at CretAquarium while making travel plans. A seamless and trouble-free parking experience during the stay depends on the visitor’s awareness of fees, time limits or rules of parking in Heraklion.

What visitors say about CretAquarium?

Visitors describe CretAquarium as a mesmerizing, fascinating world of aquatic life. While not the largest aquarium, it contains a remarkable variety of marine species – colorful tropical fish, sharks, stingrays, octopus, and more. The displays are well-designed and informative, providing entertainment and education about ocean ecosystems and marine biology. Many reviewers remarked that it was a great experience for kids and adults alike, with exhibits capturing the imagination. Several people noted the aquarium was clean, well-maintained, and the fish appeared healthy. CretAquarium’s VR experience also received praise, though lines can get long. Most visitors felt 1-2 hours was sufficient to see everything. While the main draw is marine life from the Mediterranean and Greece, some were impressed by the shark and tropical fish tanks. Overall, CretAquarium is described as an entertaining, educational, and family-friendly attraction that brings the wonders of the sea to life.

Last updated on October 22nd, 2024