Dive into the Wonders of the Malta National Aquarium: A Marine Adventure for All Ages
The Malta National Aquarium, located in Qawra on the northern coast of the island, is one of Malta’s most captivating attractions, offering a fascinating underwater experience for visitors of all ages.
This state-of-the-art aquarium provides a unique opportunity to explore marine life from the Mediterranean Sea and beyond. With its educational exhibits, interactive displays, and stunning ocean views, the Malta National Aquarium promises an unforgettable day out for families, nature lovers, and curious minds alike.
Explore the Themed Zones
The Malta National Aquarium is divided into various themed zones, each showcasing different marine ecosystems and species. These zones take visitors on a journey from the Mediterranean Sea to tropical oceans, highlighting the beauty and diversity of marine life.
Zones to Explore:
- Mediterranean Sea Zone: Discover marine species native to the waters surrounding Malta, such as groupers, eels, and sea bream. Learn about the importance of protecting Malta’s rich marine biodiversity.
- Tropical Ocean Zone: Explore the vibrant and colorful world of coral reefs, featuring exotic fish like clownfish, angelfish, and tangs. You’ll also spot some larger marine creatures like sharks and rays.
- Reptile and Amphibian Zone: A unique section dedicated to reptiles and amphibians, showcasing turtles, frogs, and snakes in carefully designed habitats.
Tips:
- Spend time at each exhibit to learn about the species and the conservation efforts being undertaken to protect their habitats.
- The aquarium offers interactive displays, making it a great learning experience for kids.
- Bring your camera to capture the beauty of the exotic marine life, but be mindful of restrictions in certain areas.
Walk Through the Shark Tunnel
One of the most exciting features of the Malta National Aquarium is the impressive shark tunnel. This underwater walkway provides a 360-degree view of sharks, rays, and other large fish as they swim gracefully above and around you, offering an immersive experience of marine life.
What to Expect:
- Walk through the tunnel and feel as if you’re part of the underwater world, with sharks gliding past just inches away.
- See species like blacktip reef sharks and nurse sharks up close, making this a highlight for both kids and adults.
Tips:
- Visit the tunnel during quieter times of the day to avoid crowds and get the best views.
- Watch the sharks during their feeding times for a more thrilling experience.
Participate in Interactive Exhibits
The Malta National Aquarium offers various interactive experiences that allow visitors to engage more closely with marine life. From touch pools to educational workshops, these activities provide a deeper understanding of ocean ecosystems and their inhabitants.
Interactive Activities:
- Touch Pool: Get hands-on by gently touching starfish, sea urchins, and other small marine creatures. This is a favorite for children and those curious about marine life.
- Educational Workshops: The aquarium frequently hosts educational talks and workshops on marine conservation, species protection, and ocean ecosystems. These sessions are great for families and school groups.
- Virtual Reality (VR) Experience: Dive into the virtual world of the ocean with the aquarium’s VR experience, where you can explore underwater landscapes and encounter marine species in a new way.
Tips:
- Check the aquarium’s daily schedule for times of workshops and interactive sessions.
- Encourage kids to participate in the touch pool to spark their interest in marine biology.
Watch the Feeding Sessions
Watching the feeding sessions at the aquarium is an exciting and informative experience. Visitors can observe how different species are fed and learn about their diets and behaviors from the knowledgeable aquarium staff.
Feeding Highlights:
- Shark Feeding: This is one of the most popular feedings, where visitors can witness sharks being fed by the staff and learn about their natural feeding habits.
- Turtle Feeding: Meet the aquarium’s resident turtles and watch them enjoy their meal. Staff members also provide information about turtle conservation efforts.
- Ray Feeding: The rays glide elegantly through the water, and watching them feed is a unique and mesmerizing experience.
Tips:
- Feeding sessions are scheduled at specific times, so check the aquarium’s calendar in advance to plan your visit accordingly.
- Arrive early to get a good viewing spot for the more popular feeding times.
Visit the Outdoor Play Area and Splash Zone
After exploring the exhibits inside, families can head outside to enjoy the aquarium’s outdoor play area and splash zone. These areas are perfect for kids to burn off some energy while parents relax with stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea.
Outdoor Fun:
- Playground: Equipped with slides, swings, and climbing structures, the playground is a great spot for young children to enjoy.
- Splash Zone: In the warmer months, the splash zone provides a fun water-based play area for kids to cool off and have fun.
Tips:
- Make sure to pack swimwear and towels if your kids want to play in the splash zone.
- The outdoor areas also have seating, so parents can relax and take in the scenic surroundings.
Enjoy a Meal at La Nave Bistro
The Malta National Aquarium features an on-site restaurant, La Nave Bistro, offering a delicious range of Mediterranean dishes with a modern twist. With stunning views overlooking St. Paul’s Bay, this is the perfect spot to unwind after a day of exploring the aquarium.
Dining Highlights:
- Enjoy fresh seafood dishes, salads, pasta, and pizza, all made with locally sourced ingredients.
- The restaurant offers a kid-friendly menu, making it ideal for families.
- Pair your meal with a glass of local Maltese wine while enjoying panoramic views of the sea.
Tips:
- The restaurant can get busy, especially during weekends and holidays, so booking a table in advance is recommended.
- Try the seafood dishes for a taste of the Mediterranean, and don’t miss out on the dessert menu, which offers a variety of sweet treats.
Practical Information
- Location: Malta National Aquarium, Triq it-Trunciera, Qawra, St. Paul’s Bay, Malta
- Opening Hours: Open daily from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM, with last admissions at 5:30 PM.
- Admission: Tickets can be purchased online or at the entrance. Family packages and discounts for children and seniors are available.
- Getting There: The aquarium is located in Qawra, easily accessible by car, taxi, or public transport from major towns like Valletta and Sliema.
- Facilities: On-site parking, restrooms, gift shop, and dining facilities are available.
Conclusion
The Malta National Aquarium offers an engaging and educational experience for visitors of all ages.
From walking through the mesmerizing shark tunnel to participating in hands-on exhibits and learning about marine conservation, there’s something for everyone.
Whether you’re a family looking for a fun day out, a nature lover curious about marine life, or simply seeking a relaxing spot by the sea, the Malta National Aquarium promises a memorable adventure. Make sure to explore the themed zones, enjoy the feeding sessions, and savor the delicious cuisine at La Nave Bistro for a complete and enriching experience.
