The National Oceanographic Museum of Vietnam, also known as the Nha Trang Oceanography Institute, is a leading marine research institute in Southeast Asia . It's located inside the Institute of Oceanography, which was established by the French during the colonial era in 1923. Since then, it has become a significant center for marine research in Vietnam.
The museum itself is housed in a grand French-colonial building located at 1 Cau Da St., about 5 kilometers from Nha Trang City Center, at the foot of the outcrop where Bao Dai Village is constructed. It opened to the public on September 14, 1922, and today it is still a popular destination for both domestic and foreign tourists.
Here's what you can expect to see on a visit to the National Oceanographic Museum of Vietnam:
- Aquarium exhibits: The museum features a variety of aquarium exhibits, including tanks with reef fish, sharks, and other marine life. There's also a transparent tunnel where you can walk through and see fish swimming overhead. Be aware that some reviewers have expressed concerns about the size and condition of the enclosures for some of the larger animals.
- Preserved specimens: The museum has a large collection of preserved marine specimens, including fish, seahorses, shells, and corals. These specimens are displayed in jars and on shelves.
- Thematic exhibits: The museum also has a number of thematic exhibits that focus on different aspects of marine science, such as the history of oceanography in Vietnam, the geology of the Vietnamese seabed, and the importance of marine conservation.
Overall, the National Oceanographic Museum of Vietnam is a fascinating place to learn about the marine life of the South China Sea. However, it's important to be aware of the mixed reviews regarding the welfare of the animals on display.