The Ozeaneum is a large marine museum and aquarium on Stralsund's harbour island (Hafeninsel), directly beside the UNESCO-listed old town on the Baltic coast. Opened in 2008 and named European Museum of the Year in 2010, it presents the marine life of the Baltic Sea, North Sea and North Atlantic through around 50 aquariums and the famous '1:1 Giants of the Sea' hall, where life-size whale models, including a 26-metre blue whale, hang overhead. As of 2026 it is a bigger draw than ever: the immersive show 'The World of Whales' premiered in the whale hall in December 2025, and six artistic jellyfish models were added to the Baltic Sea tour over the 2025/26 winter. It works well as a half-day, mostly indoor visit paired with the historic centre.
The '1:1 Giants of the Sea' hall with life-size whale models, including a 26 m blue whale, plus the new 2025 immersive show 'The World of Whales'
The roughly 2.6-million-litre 'Open Atlantic' tank with its sunken shipwreck and shoals of schooling fish
Europe's largest Baltic Sea exhibition, featuring a giant plankton installation and six new (2025/26) jellyfish models
Humboldt penguins on the rooftop terrace, watchable above and below the water, with views over Stralsund's old town
The futuristic Behnisch-designed architecture and the hands-on 'Children's Sea' play area
Good to know
SeasonIn the July-August peak season the museum extends opening hours to 8 pm and gets very crowded. Book a timed online ticket in advance or arrive early in the morning.
RulesPrices, opening hours and special shows change from time to time. Check the official website for the latest details before your visit, including whether a combined ticket with the Meeresmuseum is worthwhile.
SeasonThe harbour island is windy and Baltic weather is changeable. Bring a light jacket even in summer; the mostly indoor route also makes it a good rainy-day option.
MannersDo not tap the glass at the penguin enclosure or tanks, avoid flash and tripods, and keep noise down; follow the posted feeding times.
SafetyCrime is generally low, but watch your belongings in peak-season crowds and around Stralsund's main station. Use the lockers for larger bags.
CautionParking on the harbour island is limited and paid. Use official car parks and ignore any informal 'attendants' who demand cash for on-street parking.
Practical info
The Ozeaneum sits on the harbour island (Hafeninsel) in the old-town harbour quarter, about a 15-20 minute walk from Stralsund main station (Stralsund Hbf) or a short local bus ride. Opening is broadly daily 09:30-18:00 from September to June and 09:30-20:00 in July-August, with adult tickets around EUR 18 and children (4-16) around EUR 8; however, prices, hours and closing days change, so confirm the latest details on the official website before visiting.
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