The Primorskiy Aquarium

The Primorskiy Aquarium is by far the best facility of its kind that I have seen ANYWHERE in the world. It truly is magnificent.

It is the third-largest aquarium complex in the world with a total interior space of 37,000m2.

The aquarium sits on Russky Island in beautifully manicured grounds with the main building designed to look like a slightly open mollusc shell.

Inside the place is just as impressive, with massive tanks and beautifully created exhibits. There is even a tropical rain forest hall!

The immaculate cleanliness of the whole place really stands out. Everything is spotless, not one hint of unwanted algae in any of the tanks - which is no mean feat and a huge statement to the way the place is run.

In addition to the displays, 3D holograms, animated models, tanks etc. the aquarium features a 'dolphinarium' within an 800-seat auditorium where we watched the most amazing shows with a mixture of awe and immense sadness (that such animals are in captivity). Two Beluga, 4 Pacific Bottlenose Dolphins and a Walrus trained to the highest levels.

Beluga Show

Bottlenose Dolphins

Walrus

I cannot recommend a visit highly enough but allow at least half a day. It is massive.