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Maretarium Kotka

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Maretarium Kotka (Finland)

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The Maretarium in Kotka is a unique public aquarium specializing exclusively in the native fish fauna of Finland. Located in the Sapokka district, it opened in 2002 to showcase the diversity of Finnish waters, from the Baltic Sea to the northern lakes. The aquarium houses over 60 different fish species in tanks designed to mimic their natural habitats, with the impressive Baltic Sea tank being the largest. The Maretarium serves not only as an entertainment venue but also as an important educational center providing information on aquatic ecology and the protection of endangered species. Visitors can follow the seasonal cycles of the fish, as water temperatures and light conditions are adjusted to match natural patterns. A special highlight is the daily feedings conducted by divers, bringing visitors closer to the inhabitants of the deep. The building's modern architecture and its location right by the sea underscore the maritime focus of this extraordinary natural history museum.

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Avg °C-5-6-33101418171262-2
Rain mm574843435673677370817269

📋 Practical info

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Visiting
Maretarium Kotka is an aquarium that can be visited all year round. The indoor area displays the underwater world of the Finnish coast and inland waters.
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Typical hours
Opening hours are seasonal: longer in summer, often only until 4:00 pm in winter. Always check current hours on the official site.
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Photography
Photography is allowed without flash to avoid stressing the animals. Large aquarium windows are great for shots with side lighting.
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Time needed
A visit typically takes about an hour, a bit longer with children. The interactive touch pools provide extra entertainment.
Combine with
Combine the aquarium visit with a walk in Sapokka Park or to Kotka Church. The nearby Vellamo Museum is also worth a visit.
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Getting there
Maretarium is located right at Kotka harbour, just a ten-minute walk from the train station. Parking is available at the harbour parking lot, which is paid.
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Insider tip
Ask at the ticket desk about the combo ticket that includes entry to Vellamo Museum - it saves money. Best visiting time is late morning before school groups arrive.

Geography

Coordinates
60.46600, 26.95200

Facts

  • Aquarium opened in the year 2002
  • Houses over 60 native fish species
  • The largest tank holds 500,000 liters of water
  • Collaborates with the University of Helsinki
  • Water temperatures follow natural seasons
  • Located in the award-winning Sapokka Park

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Sights in the town Maretarium Kotka (10)

Pyhän Nikolaoksen kirkko

Eastern Orthodox church in Kotka, Finland, dedicated to Saint Nicholas.

Kotkan kaupungintalo

Town hall building in the Finnish port city of Kotka.

Kotkan Kaupunginteatteri

City theatre of Kotka, venue for plays and musical performances.

Maretarium

Aquarium in Kotka, showcasing local fish species and marine life.

Sibeliuksenpuisto🌳 park

Park in Finland, named after composer Jean Sibelius.

Veturityyppi Vr1

Historic steam locomotive of class Vr1, on display in Kotka.

Sammutusvene HM-71

Firefighting boat HM-71, exhibited as a technical monument in Kotka.

Magneettimiinanraivain MRK/Mg 3 P - "Pikku miinapolkky"

Magnetic mine clearance device MRK/Mg 3 P, nicknamed little mine log.

Kotkan Vapaakirkko

Free Church building in Kotka, Finland.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

What can you see at the Maretarium?
Over 60 species of Finnish fish in naturalistic aquariums.
When is feeding time?
Usually at 3 PM; a diver feeds the fish in the large main tank.
Is it suitable for small children?
Yes, it is very family-friendly and educational.
Is there a cafe on-site?
Yes, there is a cafe and a souvenir shop on-site.
How long does a visit take?
You should plan to spend about 1.5 to 2 hours there.
Maretarium Kotka: where is it located?
Maretarium Kotka is located in Finland.
Maretarium Kotka: what is there to see?
Highlights include Pyhän Nikolaoksen kirkko, Kotkan kaupungintalo, Kotkan Kaupunginteatteri.
Maretarium Kotka: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.
Maretarium Kotka: why is it worth visiting?
The Maretarium in Kotka is a unique public aquarium specializing exclusively in the native fish fauna of Finland.
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