In Hvide Sande, Jyllandsakvariet has a branch unlike any other aquarium in Denmark. The tanks are built into an old wheelhouse, a fishing cutter, a sailing boat and other maritime objects – here the aquariums themselves are the scenery.
The aquarium is at Tungevej 1, right by the harbour, and also offers a large amber exhibition, an indoor amber beach where you are guaranteed to find amber and a creative workshop for the whole family.
Aquariums in quirky settings
Instead of building scenery inside an ordinary tank, Jyllandsakvariet in Hvide Sande has built the aquariums into objects from the sea and the harbour. The result is an unusual and quirky exhibition where you look in at the fish through a wheelhouse or down into a cutter.
A large amber exhibition
What is amber? Why does it glow? And how do the "professional" amber hunters go about finding the gold of the North? The large amber exhibition tells the whole story of how amber is formed.
Afterwards the whole family can go hunting on the indoor beach. The floor is covered in sand with small golden pieces of amber hidden everywhere – and of course you can keep what you find.
Amber safari with an amber guarantee
The amber safari is one of the aquarium's most popular guided tours. Amber is millions of years old and one of nature's most fascinating finds – but it is hard to find if you don't know how. The amber guide gives you tips and tricks so you are ready to go amber hunting on your own. If you find nothing on the beach, you can find a few pieces in the aquarium.
In the dark season you can also join an amber safari in the dark and learn to find amber with a UV torch. And at Fish, facts and feeding time the keeper tells you about the animals while they are fed.
Creative workshop and maritime shop
In the creative workshop you can make your own West Coast souvenirs as a memento of your visit, and there are regular amber workshops where you make your own jewellery.
In the small maritime shop you will find a nice holiday souvenir – and you are welcome in the shop even without an admission ticket.
Frequently asked questions
Here are the questions we are asked most often about visiting Jyllandsakvariet in Hvide Sande.
How much is admission?
Children 0-2 free, children 3-12 DKK 99, adults DKK 119 and seniors (65+) DKK 99. Your ticket is a waterproof wristband valid for 7 days.
Please note that tickets for Hvide Sande are not valid in Thyborøn and vice versa.
Can I buy an annual pass?
Yes. The annual pass costs DKK 159 for children 3-12, DKK 199 for adults and DKK 159 for seniors, valid for one year from purchase. It pays off from your second visit.
When is the aquarium open?
The aquarium is open every day: January-May 10-16, June 10-17, July-August 10-18, September-October 10-17 and November 10-16. In December it is closed 1-18 December and otherwise open 10-16 (closed 24-25 December, 31 December 10-15).
See current opening hours
Where do I park?
The aquarium is at Tungevej 1, 6960 Hvide Sande. There is parking on Tungevej (100 metres) and Dækmolevej (200 metres).
Can I bring my dog?
Yes, dogs are welcome in the aquarium – remember to keep them on a lead.
Is there a discount for companions?
Yes, companions with a valid companion card get 50% off admission and annual passes. The discount is given at the entrance.