Behind every aquarium lies a hidden world of daily care, preparation and dedication that ensures the wellbeing of thousands of marine animals.
With Aquarist for a Day, we open the doors to this fascinating world, giving young visitors the opportunity to discover what happens behind the scenes. During the activity, participants gain access to areas that are normally closed to the public and take part in real tasks carried out by L’Aquàrium de Barcelona’s professional aquarists.
Designed for children aged 8 to 14 with a passion for the sea, marine animals and marine biology, this experience offers a unique opportunity to discover first-hand how a modern aquarium operates.
Become an Aquarist for a Day!
An Educational Experience aimed at discovering Marine life
Discover How We Care for the Ocean
From the very beginning, participants step into the aquarium’s technical area and discover how a large public aquarium operates behind the scenes, guided by our team of biologists and environmental educators.
Throughout the day, they prepare food for a variety of marine animals—including rays, sharks, seahorses and penguins—and assist with some of the daily tasks carried out by our aquarists.
They also learn how marine ecosystems are recreated inside the aquariums and discover the specialised care required by different species.
An engaging, hands-on experience that offers an authentic and unforgettable insight into marine life.
Book your place
Activity Overview
The experience combines learning, observation and practical activities, allowing participants to discover:
- How a large public aquarium operates behind the scenes.
- The daily work of professional aquarists and the importance of animal welfare.
- How food is prepared and how different marine species are fed.
- How marine ecosystems are maintained and cared for in an aquarium.
At the end of the day, every participant receives an official certificate of participation and a commemorative photograph to remember the experience.
Price
An exclusive experience for children aged 8 to 14.
- €65 per participant
Members of L’Aquàrium de Barcelona receive a 10% discount.
Schedule and Duration
Selected Saturdays from 9:30 am to 3:30 pm (6 hours).
Available dates (2026–2027)
- 17 October
- 14 November
- 19 December
- 16 January
Small groups of 8 to 15 participants.
What’s Included?
A unique educational experience offering young participants an exclusive look at the daily work of the aquarist team at L’Aquàrium de Barcelona.
The activity includes:
- Guidance from professional biologists and environmental educators.
- Preparing food and helping feed a variety of marine species.
- Official certificate of participation.
- Commemorative photograph (subject to prior image consent).
- Lunch (please inform us in advance of any allergies or dietary requirements).
Experience Aquarist for a Day
Places are limited
Tel. + (34) 93 221 74 74
Email: reserva@aquariumbcn.com
An inspiring experience that encourages responsibility and a love for the ocean.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I check the schedule?
All the latest information about the activity is available on this page.
Dates may occasionally change depending on the availability of our technical team and educational programme.
What will participants learn?
Participants discover marine plants and animals through a combination of scientific interpretation and real hands-on activities in a unique environment.
They also gain an authentic understanding of the daily work of biologists and the responsible care required to ensure animal wellbeing.
What should participants wear?
- Comfortable clothing (T-shirt and trousers)
- Closed-toe shoes suitable for wet areas
- Clothes that can get dirty
- We recommend arriving after having breakfast
What languages is the activity available in?
The activity is offered in Catalan and Spanish, depending on the group and the availability of our educational staff.
Where does the activity take place?
The experience takes place at L’Aquàrium de Barcelona, located in Port Vell, and includes access to technical areas that are normally closed to visitors.
Is the activity safe?
Yes. Participants are supervised at all times by experienced biologists and environmental educators.
Can I accompany my child during the activity?
No. This educational experience is designed specifically for young people aged 8 to 14, allowing them to participate independently and become fully involved in the group activities.
Is lunch included?
Yes. Lunch is included and consists of a pasta dish with breaded chicken and chips. Please let us know in advance if your child has any food allergies or dietary requirements.
Can I buy this experience as a gift?
Absolutely. Aquarist for a Day makes a unique and memorable gift for young people aged 8 to 14 who are passionate about the sea and marine life.
It’s the perfect present for birthdays or any special occasion.
Planning a family day out?