CretAquarium Thalassocosmos

Overview

CretAquarium Thalassocosmos is one of the largest aquariums in the Mediterranean, located at the former US military base in Gournes, 15 km east of Heraklion. Operated by the Hellenic Centre for Marine Research, it showcases over 2,500 marine organisms from 250 species native to the Mediterranean and tropical seas.

Highlights

• Mediterranean Habitats: Large tanks recreate open-sea, deep-sea, and reef environments found around Crete.
• Shark Tanks: Multiple species of Mediterranean sharks, including the rare sandbar shark.
• Interactive Touch Pools: Hands-on pools where children can touch sea urchins, starfish, and hermit crabs.

History

The aquarium opened in 2005 inside a renovated hangar from the former Gournes US Air Force base. It is part of the Hellenic Centre for Marine Research (HCMR) campus, which also conducts scientific research on Mediterranean marine biodiversity. The facility underwent expansions in 2008 and 2017.

Visitor Tips

• Reaching it: City bus line 1 runs from central Heraklion to the aquarium.
• Family-friendly: One of Heraklion's best rainy-day activities for families with children.
• Duration: 1.5–2 hours.