Aquarium Poema del Mar and Bus TUI Package

If you’re looking for a budget-friendly, family-friendly way to explore Gran Canaria’s marine life and get a taste of the island’s capital, the Aquarium Poema del Mar and Bus TUI Package is worth considering. We haven’t personally taken this tour but based on detailed reviews and information, it seems to strike a good balance between fun, education, and convenience.

What we really like about this experience is its combination of an impressive aquarium visit with free time in Las Palmas, giving you an authentic feel of the city beyond the touristy spots. Plus, the inclusion of transport and admission fees simplifies planning, especially for families or first-timers. However, a possible drawback might be the lack of guided tours inside the aquarium, which could limit deeper educational insights—though the aquarium itself offers enough visual spectacle to keep you engaged.

This tour is ideal for families, animal lovers, or anyone curious to see the diverse marine life of the Atlantic. It’s especially appealing if you want a full day of activity that combines discovery and relaxed sightseeing at a reasonable price.

Key Points

• Family friendly with easy transportation and engaging exhibits
• Includes transportation, admission, and transfer guide for hassle-free planning
• Flexible duration from 4 to 8 hours to suit different schedules
• Free time in Las Palmas allows exploring local culture and beaches
• No guided inside-the-Aquarium tour, but plenty to see on your own
• Affordable price point of around $65 per person providing good value

Overview of the Experience

The Poema del Mar Aquarium in Las Palmas is a highlight for anyone interested in marine life and architecture. Sharing the same family as Tenerife’s famous Loro Parque and Siam Park, this aquarium is designed to impress with its 36-metre-long curved window and numerous exhibits. You’ll encounter over 300 marine species, including sharks, piranhas, clownfish, and exotic creatures from different parts of the world.

The big draw here is the panoramic window, providing an eye-level view of sharks gliding past, which is both thrilling and educational. The aquarium also features themed zones such as The Jungle, showcasing animals from tropical forests, and the Reef, where colorful corals and fish thrive. For science buffs and curious kids, the Deep Sea section boasts millions of liters of water and adds a sense of the mysterious ocean depths.

Beyond the exhibits, the aquarium offers a state-of-the-art cinema with regular short films that add an educational dimension without feeling like a classroom. This makes the visit suitable for all ages. The overall environment is designed to showcase marine biodiversity in an engaging way while adhering to strict animal welfare standards—a point emphasized by the tour operator and reflected positively in reviews.

The Itinerary Breakdown

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

The highlight of the tour is, of course, the aquarium visit. The admission ticket is included, ensuring you don’t have to worry about extra costs or long lines. Expect to spend a couple of hours marveling at aquatic life, taking photos through the curved window, and learning about the diverse species on display.

Inside, you’ll find electric eels, bull sharks, and Nemo-like clownfish, all housed in environments that mimic their natural habitats. The design of the aquarium emphasizes visual impact, so even those less interested in marine biology will appreciate the stunning visuals.

According to a positive review, “Visiting the Poema del Mar is more than just recommended. It is a unique experience for young and old,” emphasizing how the design and exhibits are suitable for all ages.

Stop 2: Free Time in Las Palmas (Approx. 2 hours)

After the aquarium, the tour allows for free time in the city of Las Palmas. You can explore Santa Catalina—a lively district with cafes, shops, and a vibrant local atmosphere— or relax on Las Canteras Beach, rated as one of the best urban beaches in Europe.

This free time is a valuable addition; it allows you to stretch your legs, grab a bite, or simply soak in the island’s atmosphere. Since transportation and transfers are included, you won’t have to worry about logistics, making this segment stress-free.

What Travelers Say

The most common praise from reviews is how smoothly everything runs. One reviewer states, “The transfer by TUI went smoothly. We didn’t have to wait in line,” highlighting the convenience and efficiency of the service. The price, at around $65 per person, is seen as good value considering that admission fees and transport are covered.

Another reviewer praised the family-friendly environment, noting that “visiting Poema del Mar is more than just recommended. It is a unique experience for young and old,” which speaks to the inclusive design of the attraction.

Some travelers might note that the tour does not offer guided inside-the-aquarium tours, but the exhibits are largely self-explanatory, and the visuals are enough to keep most engaged. The shared guide on the bus provides logistical support but not in-depth narration about the aquarium.

The Practical Aspects and Value

The timing begins at 9:00am, making it a good option to start your day early and maximize your time. The overall duration varies from 4 to 8 hours, accommodating those who want a quick visit or a more leisurely exploration.

The group size is capped at 50, which helps maintain a friendly atmosphere and manageable crowd levels at the aquarium. The package includes transportation, admission fees, and a transfer guide, helping you avoid the hassle of organizing separate tickets or figuring out transport on your own.

The price of $65.01 per person is quite reasonable given the full-day experience, especially considering the quality of the exhibits and the convenience factor. The optional free time in Las Palmas adds extra value, allowing you to tailor the experience to your interests.

Final Thoughts: Who is This Tour For?

This tour is ideal for families with children, couples, or solo travelers who want a well-organized, cost-effective way to enjoy Gran Canaria’s marine life and explore the city at their own pace. If you’re someone who values convenience, a balance of indoor and outdoor experiences, and good value, this package hits the mark.

While it doesn’t include guided tours inside the aquarium, the visual displays and self-guided exploration are enough to satisfy most visitors. The free time in Las Palmas is a bonus, giving you a taste of local culture and beaches without extra planning.

This experience offers an engaging, straightforward way to see some of the island’s top sights in a single day, making it perfect for first-time visitors or families seeking a fun, educational outing.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, the package includes transport to and from the aquarium, making travel logistics simple and stress-free.

How long is the aquarium visit?
You can expect to spend around 4 hours inside the aquarium, exploring exhibits and enjoying the visual displays.

What is the price for this tour?
The cost is approximately $65.01 per person, which covers admission fees, transportation, and the transfer guide.

Can I cancel the tour if my plans change?
Yes, there’s free cancellation available up to 24 hours before the scheduled start.

Is there a guided tour inside the aquarium?
No, the tour is self-guided, but the exhibits are well-designed for independent exploration.

How much free time do I get in Las Palmas?
You’ll have about 2 hours to explore the city, visit the beach, or relax.

What are the main attractions in Las Palmas included in the free time?
You can visit Santa Catalina, the lively district with cafes and shops, or enjoy the sands of Las Canteras Beach.

Are there any animal welfare considerations?
Yes, the aquarium adheres to strict animal welfare standards, developed in collaboration with scientists, ensuring the wellbeing of the marine creatures.

What is the group size for this tour?
The maximum group size is 50 travelers, which helps keep the environment friendly and manageable.

Who should avoid this tour?
Individuals seeking guided tours inside attractions or those wanting a more specialized, in-depth marine biology experience might find this format less suitable.

This tour combines the joy of discovering vibrant marine life with the freedom to enjoy a scenic city, all at a reasonable price. It’s a smart choice for those who want a relaxed yet engaging way to spend part of their Gran Canaria holiday.