As June casts its gentle glow over Vladivostok, beckoning travelers to its shores, one cannot help but feel the allure of exploration. It’s a time when the weather strikes a harmonious balance between warmth and coolness, offering the perfect backdrop for adventures amidst sunshine-kissed days and misty veils of fog. And amidst this captivating landscape lies a gem waiting to be discovered: the Primorskiy Oceanarium on Russky Island.
This aquatic haven, the third largest of its kind in the world, sprawls across an impressive 37,000 square meters, nestled along the coast of the Sea of Japan. Its inception was a testament to collaborative vision, inaugurated on September 3, 2016, by dignitaries including the President of Russia, Vladimir Putin, alongside the Prime Minister of Japan, Shinzo Abe, and the president of the Republic of Korea, Park Geun-Hye.
More than a mere spectacle, the Primorsky Aquarium stands as a bastion of scientific inquiry, designated as the National Scientific Center of Marine Biology by the Far Eastern Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences. It serves as a beacon of education, with laboratories fostering both research and learning opportunities for schoolchildren, shaping the minds of future marine biologists and environmental stewards.
At its heart lies the 800-seat Dolphinarium, where the ocean’s denizens take center stage, captivating audiences with their grace and intelligence. Here, bottlenose dolphins Sam and Emmy enchant with their melodies and acrobatics, while belugas Nil and Ler demonstrate the artistry of synchronized swimming. Sea lion Aik dazzles with his antics, from breakdancing to basketball, while the affable walrus Misha steals hearts with his athleticism and charm.
The allure of the Primorsky Aquarium extends beyond its walls, beckoning visitors into a world teeming with wonders. Its architecture, resembling a delicately unfurled mollusk shell, hints at the treasures within. Inside, a symphony of water beckons, with a total volume exceeding 25,000 tons, nurturing over 500 species from around the globe.
Venturing through its halls, visitors encounter a mesmerizing array of marine life, from the graceful glide of sharks and rays to the vibrant hues of Amazonian fish, including the notorious piranhas. The pièce de résistance is the underwater tunnel, a 70-meter marvel that immerses guests in the ocean’s embrace, offering glimpses of life beneath the waves.
But the Primorsky Aquarium is more than a mere spectacle—it’s an immersive experience, offering a plethora of activities to engage and educate visitors of all ages. Guided tours lead guests through captivating exhibits, while the Dolphinarium delights with its enchanting performances. Classes and lectures provide opportunities for learning, igniting curiosity and fostering a deeper appreciation for the wonders of the sea.
Tickets, available exclusively at the Oceanarium, grant entry to this aquatic paradise, with prices varying depending on the day of the week. Special considerations are made for young explorers, with children under seven granted complimentary admission. Operating hours span from 10:00 to 20:00, with last admissions at 18:15, offering ample time to immerse oneself in the wonders within.
Wednesdays, a day reserved for school groups, offer a respite for communal learning. However, during the summer months from June 1st to August 31st, the Primorsky Aquarium opens its doors to all visitors on Wednesdays, inviting locals and travelers alike to embark on a journey of discovery.
So, as June unfolds its splendor over Vladivostok, seize the opportunity to delve into the depths of the oceanic realm at the Primorsky Aquarium. It’s a voyage of wonder, education, and enchantment—an experience that will linger in the hearts and minds of visitors long after they bid farewell to its azure embrace.
