Aquarium Poema del Mar and Bus TUI Package

Taking a trip to Gran Canaria often means exploring its beautiful beaches, vibrant streets, and scenic viewpoints. But for families, marine enthusiasts, or anyone eager for a fun yet educational experience, a visit to Poema del Mar Aquarium offers a unique window into the underwater world. This tour, bundled with a scenic drive through Las Palmas, is highly rated for its engaging attractions and smooth logistics.

One thing we really appreciate about this experience is how it marries the excitement of discovering hundreds of marine species with the chance to soak up some local culture and scenery. The price point of just over $65 per person makes it an accessible day out that combines entertainment and exploration.

A possible consideration is the lack of guided tours within the aquarium itself—so if you prefer detailed commentary from a guide, you might need to do some self-guided exploration or bring your own device for extra info.

This tour suits families, marine life lovers, and travelers with limited time who want a well-rounded experience in Gran Canaria without breaking the bank.

Key Points

• Excellent value for the combination of aquarium admission and local exploration
• Family-friendly, with plenty of engaging marine exhibits for all ages
• Comfortable transportation and smooth transfer included
• Flexible timing, with free time in Las Palmas for personal discovery
• Animal welfare standards ensure ethical treatment of marine life
• Ideal for travelers who prefer a flexible, self-paced experience

What to Expect from the Poema del Mar Aquarium Experience

The Poema del Mar Aquarium is more than just a typical marine park. As part of a package that includes transportation and a guide on the bus, you’ll find yourself immersed in a vibrant, visually stunning environment showcasing over 300 marine species. The aquarium’s standout feature is its spectacular 36-metre-long curved window, which gives you a panoramic view of the ocean’s inhabitants—a true highlight and perfect for photos.

Expect to see sharks, piranhas, clownfish (yes, Nemo in real life!), electric eels, and many other species. The exhibits are thoughtfully designed to mimic natural habitats, from the lush, jungle-like “The Jungle” section to the colorful coral reefs in the “Reef” zone. Reviewers mention that the aquarium feels more like an oceanographic adventure than a simple visit, thanks to its diverse displays and immersive environments.

Inside, there’s also a state-of-the-art cinema showing short films about marine conservation and underwater life. It’s a good way to sit down and get a break from the walking while still learning. For the adventurous, the Deep Sea exhibit offers a dramatic display of millions of liters of water—adding to the sense of being in a real marine environment.

The Itinerary Breakdown: From Marine Marvels to City Charm

Stop 1: Poema del Mar Aquarium (Approx. 4 hours)

You’ll start your day around 9:00 am, with pickup arranged and a shared transfer guide on the bus providing some context about the tour and the local area. Once at the aquarium, you’re free to explore at your own pace.

The admission ticket included in the tour means you can spend as much time as you like between exhibits. We loved the way the aquarium is designed to keep visitors engaged, with plenty of opportunities for close-up encounters with marine life. The large curved window is a major draw, giving a sense of diving into the ocean itself.

A reviewer, Sonja, mentioned that “visiting Poema del Mar is more than just recommended. It is a unique experience for young and old,” emphasizing its appeal across generations. She also appreciated the smooth transfer process, noting “we didn’t have to wait in line,” which is a real bonus during busy seasons.

Stop 2: Exploring Las Palmas (Approx. 2 hours)

After the aquarium visit, the tour provides free time to explore Las Palmas, particularly the Santa Catalina area and Las Canteras Beach. These spots are some of the city’s most lively and scenic areas, perfect for a stroll, a quick meal, or just relaxing by the ocean.

Travelers like Sonja also found this part of the experience valuable, noting it’s a great way to see the city at your own pace. Whether you want to browse local shops, grab a coffee, or enjoy beach views, this free time adds flexibility.

Transportation and Logistics: Making It Easy for You

The tour includes transportation to and from the aquarium and city, with pick-up options and a shared transfer guide. The bus is comfortable, and the guided commentary on board helps you understand what you’ll see and some local insights, especially during the drive through Las Palmas.

The tour doesn’t include guided visits inside the aquarium, but the self-guided experience is considered very good, especially with the high-quality exhibits and visual displays. The group size is limited to 50 travelers, which helps keep things manageable and social without feeling crowded.

Is the Price Worth It?

At $65.01 per person, this package offers solid value. The ticket price covers both the aquarium entrance and transportation, saving you the hassle of organizing your own transfer or tickets. Plus, the inclusion of a guide on the bus provides helpful context.

Considering the reviews, you’re getting more than just a look at marine life—you’re gaining a well-organized, smooth experience that keeps stress low and fun high. The flexible timing means you can enjoy the exhibits at your own pace, and the free time in Las Palmas is a thoughtful touch for those wanting to extend their day.

The Ethical Side: Animal Welfare Standards

What sets this tour apart is its commitment to animal welfare standards, developed with independent scientists. These standards strictly prohibit breeding for commercial purposes, wild capture, or food deprivation techniques, making it a more responsible choice for eco-conscious travelers.

This commitment offers peace of mind, knowing that the animals are being cared for according to the latest research and international norms. It’s a reminder that fun and education about marine life can go hand-in-hand with ethical treatment.

Authentic Experiences and Insider Tips

From the reviews, it’s clear that the smooth transfer process and well-designed exhibits are appreciated. Sonja also mentioned that the aquarium is more than just recommended, hinting at how memorable and engaging the visit can be for all ages.

One insider tip is to arrive early, as the aquarium opens around 9 am, allowing you to beat some of the crowds and enjoy the exhibits with fewer people around. Also, don’t forget your camera for the panoramic views—especially the huge curved window provides fantastic photo opportunities.

Who Is This Tour Best Suited For?

This experience is ideal for families with children, as the exhibits are colorful, engaging, and educational. It’s also perfect for marine enthusiasts or anyone interested in a relaxed, self-paced day that balances discovery with free time in the city.

Travelers on limited schedules will value the convenience and value of this package, which packs a lot of fun into a manageable half-day. The ethical standards also make it appealing to eco-conscious visitors seeking responsible tourism options.

The Poema del Mar Aquarium and Las Palmas tour provides a well-rounded day out that combines the wonder of marine life with a taste of city life. The high-quality exhibits, smooth logistics, and flexible timing make it a reliable choice for travelers looking for value and authentic experiences.

While it might lack guided tours inside the aquarium, the impressive displays, panoramic views, and ethical standards more than compensate. Plus, the free half-day in Las Palmas lets you tailor your experience—whether you want to relax on the beach or explore local sights.

In essence, this tour offers a thoughtful blend of education, entertainment, and cultural discovery—perfect for those wanting to enjoy Gran Canaria without the fuss. It’s especially recommended for families, eco-conscious travelers, and anyone seeking a day of fun with a responsible touch.

Is transportation included in this tour?
Yes, the tour includes transport to and from the aquarium and Las Palmas, with a shared transfer guide to help make the day smooth.

Can I explore the aquarium at my own pace?
Absolutely. Your admission ticket allows you to spend as much time as you want inside the aquarium, enjoying exhibits like the large curved window and various themed zones.

Are there guided tours inside Poema del Mar?
No, the tour does not include guided visits inside the aquarium, but the exhibits are self-explanatory and visually engaging.

How much free time do I get in Las Palmas?
You’ll have around 2 hours to explore the city, walk along Las Canteras beach, or visit Santa Catalina. This is enough for a quick stroll or a coffee break.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, children will particularly enjoy the colorful marine exhibits, the panoramic views, and the interactive displays. It’s a family-friendly experience.

What should I bring for the visit?
Bring your camera, comfortable shoes, and some water. If you want to learn more about specific species, consider bringing a device to look up additional info, as the tour itself is self-guided inside the aquarium.

Taking this tour means enjoying a responsible, memorable day in Gran Canaria—perfect for those eager to explore marine wonders and local culture without the hassle.