Polaria

About us

Polaria is an Arctic experience centre and the world’s northernmost aquarium, located in the heart of Tromsø. The iconic building, inspired by ice floes pushed ashore by the Arctic Ocean, houses interactive exhibitions and aquariums filled with life from the northern seas.

Exhibitions and Purpose

The mission of the Polaria Foundation is to communicate research from the Arctic and sub-Arctic regions. Through knowledge-based exhibitions developed in close collaboration with researchers at the Fram – High North Research Centre for Climate and the Environment, visitors gain insight into how climate change, plastic pollution and environmental toxins affect life in the north.

In our new interactive exhibitions, guests can explore underwater soundscapes, discover the fragile Svalbard food web, and reflect on how all species – including humans – are interconnected and dependent on the balance of nature.

Seal Pool and Aquarium

Polaria is home to seven seals: three bearded seals, three harbour seals and one ringed seal. The seals take part in daily feeding and training sessions that stimulate them both mentally and physically. These sessions are part of their regular enrichment and are not staged shows; however, visitors are warmly welcome to watch every day at 10:30, 12:30 and 15:30.

The aquarium showcases a variety of species from the Arctic marine environment, including cod, halibut, wolffish, king crab, jellyfish and many other fascinating creatures from northern waters.

Panoramic Theatre

Our Panoramic Theatre screens three films that highlight natural wonders of the north. Experience the Northern Lights in the Tromsø region, soar above Svalbard’s glaciers and mountains, or enjoy a behind-the-scenes look at how we care for the animals and operate the aquarium at Polaria.

The New Polaria

Polaria has recently completed a major expansion that enhances both animal welfare and the guest experience. The new seal pool is three times larger than the previous one, featuring expansive panoramic windows, natural daylight, and an outdoor balcony pool where the seals can swim outside, bask in the midnight sun during summer and enjoy the snow in winter.

The expansion also includes new meeting and event spaces suitable for exclusive gatherings, tailored experiences and unique MICE events in Arctic surroundings.

In addition, we offer several bookable guest experiences, such as seal encounters, guided tours, Arctic yoga and a live theatre performance about the Northern Lights.

Gift Shop and Light Refreshments

Polaria’s gift shop offers a wide selection of high-quality local and Nordic products. We collaborate with suppliers who actively work to reduce their environmental footprint and focus on sustainable production.

We provide a simple café service at the reception, offering coffee, tea, soft drinks, ice cream and baked goods from local suppliers. Gluten- and lactose-free options are usually available, while vegetarian options may vary.

Practical Information
Opening Hours

• Open daily: 10:00–17:00
• 17 May: closed
• 24 December: 10:00–14:00

Seal Feeding and Training

• Every day at 10:30, 12:30 and 15:30

Accessibility and Families

• Fully accessible for visitors with reduced mobility, with ramps, lifts and a complimentary wheelchair available
• Two accessible toilets with baby-changing facilities
• Strollers are welcome throughout the entire centre
• Suitable for families with children of all ages, including infants
• Low physical activity – the entire visit takes place indoors

Sustainability

• Polaria is a non-profit foundation dedicated to communicating research-based knowledge about the Arctic, climate and the marine environment
• Strong focus on environmental responsibility, research and promoting sustainable use of Arctic regions
• Polaria is Eco-Lighthouse certified (Miljøfyrtårn) and is working towards further certifications (ISO 9001 and ISO 14001)

What Makes Polaria Unique

• The world’s northernmost aquarium and the only place in Europe where you can meet bearded seals up close
• Unique Arctic-inspired architecture resembling ice floes
• Close cooperation with the Fram Centre and researchers from around the world
• A year-round indoor attraction in the centre of Tromsø – perfect in any weather