Aquarium Poema del Mar and Bus TUI Package

Discovering the Best of Gran Canaria: Aquarium Poema del Mar and City Tour

Planning a day out in Gran Canaria? A visit to Poema del Mar aquarium combined with some free exploration of Las Palmas offers a perfect balance of marine marvels and urban charm. This tour, rated a perfect 5 out of 5 based on two reviews, promises an engaging and family-friendly adventure for around $65 per person. Its blend of an impressive aquarium experience and free time in the city makes it a great choice for travelers looking for both fun and flexibility.

What makes this tour particularly appealing? First, the spectacular architecture of the aquarium — with its enormous curved window and engaging exhibits. Second, the ease of transportation and logistics — thanks to included transfers and a smooth TUI organization. Third, the authentic insights from past visitors, highlighting how well-rounded and enjoyable this trip really is.

On the flip side, one consideration is that the tour isn’t guided through the aquarium itself, which might leave some needing extra info if they’re keen on detailed marine biology. However, the included free time in Las Palmas lets you explore at your own pace, making this ideal for those who prefer discovering on their own.

This experience is best suited for families, couples, or solo travelers eager to see marine life and experience a lively city without worrying about planning every detail. If you’re after a thoughtfully organized, value-packed day with memorable sights, this tour ticks many boxes.

Good To Know

Impressive Aquarium Design: The giant curved window and diverse exhibits make Poema del Mar a visual treat and highlight the aquarium’s focus on engaging, Instagram-worthy views.

Affordable with Great Value: At just over $65, the ticket includes transportation, admission, and a guide on the bus — a stress-free way to see the highlights.

Flexible Free Time: After exploring the aquarium, you get a couple of hours to wander Las Palmas, Santa Catalina, or relax on Las Canteras beach, perfect for those wanting a mix of organized activity and leisure.

Family-Friendly & Accessible: The tour’s design makes it suitable for most travelers, with most being able to participate and no strenuous activities involved.

Environmental & Animal Welfare Standards: Notably, the tour adheres to strict animal welfare standards, especially concerning cetaceans, ensuring that the experience is responsible and respectful of marine life.

Limited Guided Experience Inside the Aquarium: While the bus transfer is guided, the visit itself is self-guided, which may be a plus or minus depending on your preference for tours.

A Deep Dive into the Aquarium and City Tour

The Marvel of Poema del Mar Aquarium

The main attraction of this tour is undoubtedly the Poema del Mar aquarium, a stunning facility located in the heart of Las Palmas. Its highlights include a 36-metre-long curved panoramic window—a feature that invites visitors to step into an underwater world without getting wet. We loved the way this design offers a broad, immersive view of marine life, especially the vibrant coral reefs and schools of fish that seem to swim right past you.

The exhibits showcase over 300 marine species, including sharks, piranhas, clownfish (Nemo fans, rejoice), electric eels, and even bull sharks. Reviewers like Sonja_A mention that visiting the aquarium “is more than just recommended,” emphasizing how it’s a unique experience for all ages. She appreciated how smoothly everything went, especially the transfer arranged by TUI, which meant no waiting in lines—a common frustration in busy attractions.

The aquarium isn’t just about visuals; it offers a variety of themed zones like The Jungle, with creatures from diverse regions, and the Reef, filled with brightly colored corals and fish. Visitors can also enjoy an on-site cinema, where hourly screenings showcase short, engaging films about marine life—another perk for those interested in education and entertainment. The “Deep Sea” exhibit, with millions of liters of water, promises an awe-inspiring experience as you peer into a vast underwater tank.

The Convenience of the Tour Itinerary

The tour begins at 9:00 am, with a shared transfer that handles the logistics so you can skip the hassle of local transport planning. The admission fee is included, meaning you won’t need to worry about extra costs upon arrival. The duration at the aquarium is about four hours, giving ample time to explore thoroughly and take photos.

Reviewers highlight the value of the included transfer and skip-the-line access, making the visit more relaxed. Sonja_A appreciated the smoothness of the transfer, saying it allowed her to enjoy the day without logistical stress. The guide on the bus, part of the shared transfer with the Las Palmas Cultural tour, provides helpful commentary and helps coordinate the day.

Exploring Las Palmas

After the aquarium, you get about two hours to enjoy Las Palmas’ vibrant city life. Options include wandering around Santa Catalina, a lively district full of cafes and shops, or relaxing on the Las Canteras beach, famed for its golden sands and clear waters. This segment offers flexibility for travelers to tailor their afternoon—whether shopping, relaxing, or sightseeing.

Reviewers note that this free time is ideal for soaking in local atmosphere or grabbing a quick bite. It’s a laid-back way to round off the day, especially since no guided tour is included here—perfect for independent explorers or those who like to wander at their own pace.

The Practical Side: What to Expect

Transportation & Group Size

The shared transfer is efficient and eco-friendly, with a maximum group size of 50 travelers. It’s near public transportation, making it accessible for most travelers. The bus guide not only helps with logistics but also shares insights about the island, adding extra value.

Duration & Cost

This is a full-day experience, approximately 4 to 8 hours, depending on your pace and free time. At $65.01 per person, it offers a good balance between affordability and comprehensive experiences. When you consider that the ticket includes both admission and transport, it’s a good value, especially compared to booking individual activities.

Booking & Flexibility

Most bookings are made about 21 days in advance, showing it’s popular but still accessible. The free cancellation policy—up to 24 hours before—adds peace of mind for travelers with flexible plans or uncertain schedules.

Considerations for Visitors

While this tour is unguided inside the aquarium, it complements the guided bus transfer. If you prefer detailed tours inside the aquarium, you might find this format less immersive than guided experiences. However, the self-exploratory approach allows you to linger or rush certain exhibits based on your interest.

The Sum Up: Who Will Love This Tour?

This package is a fantastic option for families, solo travelers, or couples who want a well-rounded day exploring Gran Canaria’s marine life and city life with minimal hassle. The combination of a spectacular aquarium, easy logistics, and free time for personal exploration offers excellent value for your money. It’s especially suitable for those who enjoy independently wandering and appreciate responsible animal-welfare standards.

If you’re seeking an engaging, hassle-free day that balances education, entertainment, and leisure, this tour fits the bill. It’s ideal for travelers who want to see marine diversity without breaking the bank or spending hours planning each detail.

FAQ

What is included in the tour price?
The price covers transport, admission fees to Poema del Mar, and a transfer guide. It simplifies the experience by handling logistics and entry costs.

Is there a guided tour inside the aquarium?
No, the visit itself is self-guided, but the bus transfer features a guide who provides commentary during the journey.

How long do I spend at Poema del Mar?
You’ll have about four hours to explore the aquarium, which is enough to see the main exhibits and enjoy the films.

Can I customize the free time in Las Palmas?
Yes, you’re free to explore Santa Catalina, Las Canteras beach, or simply relax—there’s no guided activity during this segment.

Are there any age restrictions?
Most travelers can participate, making it family-friendly, but specific restrictions are not mentioned.

What is the tour’s cancellation policy?
You can cancel for free up to 24 hours in advance, obtaining a full refund.

How do I meet the tour?
The meeting point is near public transportation at 9:00 am; the exact location is arranged with your booking.

Is the tour suitable for travelers with mobility issues?
While not explicitly detailed, the inclusion of transport and the focus on self-guided exploration suggests it’s accessible for most.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, sunscreen, water, and a camera are recommended for a full day of sightseeing.

Can I book this tour last-minute?
Most bookings are made at least 21 days in advance, but check availability as last-minute spots may be limited.

This tour offers a delightful glimpse into Gran Canaria’s marine biodiversity and urban charm, all packaged in a smooth, value-oriented day. Whether you’re a family seeking entertainment or a solo adventurer eager to explore, it provides a practical and enjoyable way to experience the island’s highlights.