A visit to Maine State Aquarium

The Maine State Aquarium is the aquarium that showcases sea life around Boothbay and beyond. The pride of the Aquarium is a collection of extraordinary lobsters of all sizes and colors. It is located on the water in beautiful West Boothbay Harbor, Maine and is operated by the Maine Department of Marine Resources. It is an educational facility that was built in 1993 along with the state’s new fisheries research station. The interior floor plan, support systems and exhibits were completed in 1995. It has main gallery which resembles the rocky coast of Maine. The Maine State Aquarium exhibits a variety of sport-fish that are of major interest to anglers. A collection of regional fish and invertebrates can be seen hidden within the granite-like cliffs. Exhibits of the aquarium include: Shark touch tank: At center stage is an 850 gallon tank that is filled with sharks and skates. Experience the thrill of petting a live shark and discover the roughness of a skate’s skin. The knowledgeable staff of the aquarium guide the visitors how to safely and respectfully touch dogfish and skates. Tide pool Touch tank: There are large number of animals and plants found in tide pool touch tank. Sea urchins, sea stars, horseshoe crabs, sculpins and sand dollars are few of them. Video Microscope Lab: Powerful video microscope helps the visitors to see Maine’s marine life up close and personal. You’ll be able to see the animals in high magnification. Lobsters: There are 23 pound giant lobsters on display. Also there are different and fascinating color morphs of lobsters such as blue, calico, albino and more. Coast of Maine Exhibits: It is home to many different kinds of animals and plants. . As you walk through the Coast of Maine gallery, you’ll see animals both familiar and new from the northern most tip of Maine to the south. Robotic Sub (ROV) exhibit: A VideoRay robotic sub also called an ROV is run from the docks so that visitors can see what a lobster trap looks like underwater. With the help of the art technology, the visitors can see the live of what lives below the waters of Boothbay Harbor. Gift Store: You can also visit the Aquarium gift shop, which has something for everyone. There is a great selection of aquatic books, dvds, aquatic toys and plush animals. Visitors can get t-shirts that come in adult, children and toddler sizes. Other new logo items are available for sale as well. Season pass holders receive one 10% discount purchase each season. There is a discount of 20% for teachers. Picnic table, birthday parties can be arranged if booked in advance and the birthday boy or girl can receive a 10% discounted gift from the store. Hours: May 26 -September 3: 10:00 am to 5:00 pm. The aquarium will be closed on Mondays and Tuesdays after September 3. The aquarium will be closed for the season on September 30, 2007. Admissions Fees: Adults: $5. Children (5-18): $3. Children under 4: Free. Senior Citizen: $3. School Groups: Free. Don’t forget to take a camera to capture the special moments at the aquarium. Images Source: Hidden Vacations