The aquarium of Crete, or the "Sea world", is a public aquarium located near the village of Gournes, 15 km East from Heraklion city. Earlier this area was located a military air force base.

The aquarium project was conceived by the staff of the former Institute of marine biology of Crete as the first large aquarium in Greece. Its construction was funded jointly by the European investment Bank and the Greek state. The main objectives of this project was the creation of a marine Park for scientific research, education, culture and recreation, and the collection, exchange and dissemination of information about the underwater world and its inhabitants. Special attention is given to educational programs for primary and Junior schools, which are tailored to the level of students. The aquarium works under the supervision of the Hellenic centre for marine research, and draws on the experience, knowledge and innovative technologies scientists for the last 20 years.

Cretaquarium first opened its doors to visitors in December 2005. In 2008-2009 were the works on the extension of the exhibition space. In the aquarium there is an elegant exposition of marine fauna throughout the Mediterranean region. More than 60 special containers of various sizes you can see more than 250 species of various marine organisms: sharks, seahorses, octopus, clown fish, starfish, jellyfish and many other inhabitants of the underwater depths many different colors and shapes. Next to each aquarium hangs a plaque with the information in 10 languages.

Visiting the Aquarium of Crete, you will make a fascinating walk through the mysterious depths of the Mediterranean sea. Interesting aquarium will be both children and adults. This place is considered one of the best aquariums in Europe.