Océanopolis

Odometer reading: unchanged

When we arrived at the lively marine museum just before noon, a surprise awaited us. We had assumed that our tickets for 12:00 would allow us to enter shortly before the time, but instead, we found ourselves in a long queue. This queue was actually only allowed in right at noon, and the backpacks were thoroughly checked.

After passing through the entrance, we were advised to start with the otter path, as there were delays at the entrance to the brand-new tropical pavilion. In principle, the complex was set up similarly to a zoo. There were pavilions covering the themes of Brittany, Tropics, Oceanauts, the Otter Path, and a pavilion dedicated to Antarctica, which was currently closed for renovations. Only a certain number of people were let into each pavilion, and once that number was reached, entry was closed off. So, we would be waiting in line more often today.

We followed the recommendation and began at the otter path. Here, two giant otters frolicked in the open enclosure.

Then we went into the tropical pavilion without waiting. It was quite dark, stuffy, warm, and full of people. Sebb wanted to see each individual aquarium, read the information boards, and use the interactive screens. Since this took too long for Ines, we split up. Meanwhile, she discovered that there must be an outdoor pool with seals right in the middle of the pavilion.

Once Sebb finished his tour through the tropics, we made our way to the seals, to whom we had developed some affection since our visit to the WEC. While Ines stayed with the seals and was lucky enough to witness the feeding of the swimming fur animals, Sebb wandered through the pavilions dedicated to the sea of Brittany and the Oceanauts.

Finally, we went back to the otters, who were the highlight of the day.

After leaving the park, we happened to see at the harbor how a sailboat was launched back into the water after a repair at the shipyard – impressive.

We rounded off the evening with a small walk at the Brest sports beach and an evening picnic at the harbor promenade.