The Nha Trang Oceanographic Institute, one of the leading scientific research institutions on marine life in Vietnam, offers unique experiences and valuable insights into the protection of marine ecosystems. In this article, we will explore the special features and experiences that visitors can enjoy at the Nha Trang Oceanographic Institute – a marine ecological museum that connects scientific research with the preservation of valuable marine resources.
1. About the Oceanographic Institute
Address: 1 Cau Da, Vinh Hoa Ward, Nha Trang City, Khanh Hoa Province
Opening hours: 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM (Monday to Sunday, excluding government holidays and Lunar New Year)
Ticket prices:
Adults: 40,000 VND/ticket
Students: 20,000 VND/ticket
Schoolchildren: 10,000 VND/ticket
Children under 6 years old: Free
The Nha Trang Oceanographic Institute is located on a 20-hectare area, situated on a high ground near Cau Da Port. The reason Nha Trang was chosen as the location for the institute is its strategic position, close to international waters and possessing one of the deepest coastlines in Vietnam, providing ideal conditions for researching and exploring the rich marine ecosystems.
Visitors to the museum will have the opportunity to admire an impressive collection of about 4,000 marine species and over 20,000 well-preserved specimens. In addition to the display areas showcasing specimens, the institute also houses zones for the breeding and conservation of many rare marine species, playing a key role in marine ecosystem research and protection.
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2. History of the Oceanographic Institute
Founded in 1922 during the French colonial period, the Nha Trang Oceanographic Institute has gone through several important development stages. In November 1969, the University of Saigon took over its management. Since then, the institute quickly became the largest marine research and specimen storage facility in Southeast Asia, playing an important role in marine conservation and research.
Visiting the institute, tourists not only have the chance to observe over 4,000 marine species and more than 20,000 rare specimens but also get to explore living marine creatures housed in glass tanks that simulate the rich and diverse marine ecosystem. This is truly a fascinating destination for those passionate about exploring the ocean world.
Today, the Nha Trang Oceanographic Institute is not only a center for scientific research but also a hub for community education on marine life conservation. With strong investment and development, the institute has become a complex that serves research, tourism, and education, raising public awareness about marine environmental protection.
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3. Interesting experiences at the Oceanographic Institute
3.1. Admiring the miniature ocean
The marine life tanks at the Nha Trang Oceanographic Museum are like a “miniature aquarium,” showcasing over 300 marine species. Here, visitors can admire remarkable species such as sea turtles, sharks, stingrays, live corals, ornamental fish, and lobsters. These tanks not only serve the visitors’ curiosity but also provide an essential foundation for biodiversity research, contributing to a deeper understanding of Vietnam’s rich marine ecosystems.
3.2. Visiting the marine biodiversity area
After exploring the live marine creature displays, don’t forget to visit the institute’s marine biodiversity section. This area houses nearly 23,000 specimens of over 5,000 different marine animal species. This extensive collection is not only of scientific research value but also a key feature, affirming the institute’s role in preserving and studying the richness of marine ecosystems.
3.3. Visiting the fossilized skeletons section
One of the most impressive sections of the Nha Trang Oceanographic Institute is the large specimen display area, spanning 200m². This is where specimens of giant marine creatures are kept, including rare skeletons:
- A humpback whale skeleton over 18 meters long, weighing nearly 10 tons, and estimated to be over 200 years old. This is the first complete whale skeleton displayed in Vietnam, preserved in its natural form.
- A rare manatee skeleton, nearly 3 meters long, transferred from Con Dao National Park. This species is currently facing the risk of global extinction.
- A nearly 1-ton Nankin fish, with impressive dimensions of 4 meters in length and over 5 meters in width.
Additionally, the display area also features other notable specimens, such as a Chinese sturgeon, giant clams, whale sharks, etc. These exhibits not only leave a strong impression on visitors but also provide valuable insights into the biodiversity of the marine environment.
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3.4. Exploring the Hoang Sa – Truong Sa marine resources area
The exhibition at the Nha Trang Oceanographic Institute is designed to introduce and provide important knowledge about the resources and environment of the Hoang Sa and Truong Sa archipelagos. This is not only an educational destination but also a place for promoting Vietnam’s sovereignty over its islands, aiming to raise awareness among both domestic and international visitors. In particular, with Hoang Sa being an archipelago of Khanh Hoa Province, this exhibition holds profound significance, affirming national sovereignty over the islands while showcasing the pride and patriotic tradition of the Vietnamese people.
3.5. Outdoor marine exhibition at the Oceanographic Institute
At the Oceanographic Institute, the outdoor marine exhibition is open from 9 AM to 11 AM daily. Visitors will have the opportunity to experience a boat trip to the sea, where they can observe marine life through the glass bottom of the boat, providing a unique view of the underwater world. Additionally, those wishing to experience scuba diving and directly observe marine life can participate in the diving service for an additional fee.
3.6. Learning about abiotic specimens
The abiotic specimen section at the Oceanographic Institute showcases geological samples collected from various marine regions across Vietnam. Visitors also have the chance to admire historical marine and meteorological research equipment, reflecting the progress of this scientific field. This is a great opportunity to learn about the formation and development of marine research, both domestically and globally.
4. Some things to keep in mind when visiting the Oceanographic Institute
When visiting the Nha Trang Oceanographic Institute, visitors will have the chance to explore a rich and fascinating marine world. However, to protect the environment and ensure personal safety, it is important to follow the regulations outlined below:
- Adhere to the exhibition area rules: Visitors must follow the regulations at the entrance and throughout the exhibition areas. This helps maintain order and protect the ecosystem within the institute grounds.
- No loud noises or feeding the animals: Visitors should refrain from making loud noises or bringing personal food to feed the creatures. This helps protect the health of the marine species and prevents disrupting their natural environment.
- Wear appropriate attire: Wearing respectful clothing is a basic requirement when visiting the institute, contributing to a formal atmosphere and showing respect for the local regulations.
- Maintain cleanliness: Ensure that you dispose of waste properly in designated areas. This helps protect the environment and keeps the institute’s surroundings clean and beautiful.
- Wear comfortable shoes: Due to the large space and the need for significant movement, visitors should wear comfortable shoes, such as sneakers, to facilitate walking and ensure safety during the visit.
- Be careful when visiting specimen storage areas: Visitors must be cautious not to touch or knock over any specimens in the storage areas, as these items are extremely valuable and sensitive to external influences.
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Exploring the Nha Trang Oceanographic Institute is not only a journey into the mysterious world of the sea but also an opportunity for visitors to gain a deeper understanding of the importance of protecting marine resources. Whether you are a researcher or simply someone who loves the ocean, the Nha Trang Oceanographic Institute will undoubtedly offer you interesting and enriching experiences.
*Note: The information is for reference only and may change over time and location. For accurate information, please contact the main establishment.
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