Visit Stralsund’s Ozeaneum on the harbor to immerse yourself in an underwater world full of sea creatures and animals including penguins. The child-friendly approach makes this attraction a great place to take the entire family.
The Ozeaneum is an aquarium located right on the water, meaning you can appreciate the sea from both inside and outside. Start with the North Sea Aquarium tour after entering the aquarium. Notice the giant jaws of the basking shark hanging from the ceiling. It helps to show how sharks filter microorganisms.
Continue on to the Giants of the Sea exhibit with its soft blue lighting and dedication to whales and other large creatures such as Humboldt squids.
Explore all four levels, from the multimedia presentation at the bottom of the “ocean floor” to the hanging replicas of orcas and other whales at the top.
Take children to a special exhibit all their own, the Children’s Sea. Another area the kids will love is the Touch Pool, where they can pick up and handle hermit crabs, mussels and starfish.
Make your way up to the roof of the Ozeaneum to marvel at the painted mural filled with animals and coastal imagery. Enjoy panoramic views of the city from the lighthouse.
Finish your visit at the penguin area. Arrive in time for the daily feedings or sit and watch the birds splash around in the pool and waddle across nearby rocks. While the Humboldt penguins are endangered, the Ozeaneum hatched two of their own penguin chicks in 2011 and 2012.
Walk to the Ozeaneum from the main Stralsund train station, as it is located right next to the harbor. If you drive instead, park in one of the nearby parking garages for a fee. Entrance is significantly discounted for children students can also save money with identification.
Stop at the museum gift store for any souvenirs and a nearby café if you get hungry.
Ozeaneum is open daily, except Christmas Eve, and operates with longer hours in the summer.