Grand Aquarium Saint-Malo Presents New “Expédition Nautibus”
All photos: Courtesy of BoldMove Nation
(eap) The Grand Aquarium in the French port city of Saint-Malo (Brittany) recently opened its newly reimagined dark ride attraction “Expédition Nautibus”. Previously offered as two separate attractions – the “Nautibus” dark ride and the “Abyssal Descender” stand-up simulator – the experiences have now been combined into a single, immersive underwater journey – with the simulator now forming part of the preshow. The overhauled and newly conceptualized attraction features an original storyline and extensive technical upgrades.
The visitor experience begins at the fictional family estate of “Dr. Jean Kermalo”, leading guests into the depths of a submarine base. Within the areas known as “The Bridge”, “Living Spaces”, and “Hangar”, guests are immersed in a retro-futuristic setting. They board fully refurbished submarine vehicles and embark on an expedition through sunken caves, ancient ruins, and the mythical city of Mor-Lenn. A key visual feature is a newly installed Pepper’s Ghost effect, which uses glass projections to create lifelike underwater illusions.
The concept and technical implementation were managed by the Belgian company BoldMove Nation. Within just three months, the entire attraction was renovated – including the ride system, automation technology, queue line, and preshow areas. “Three months was a real challenge! Especially in terms of sourcing materials – we had to coordinate with multiple suppliers. It was a true technical and logistical effort! I’m very proud to have orchestrated this aquatic ballet of submarines to create a sense of wonder for visitors!, said Sébastien Challard, Development Engineer on the project team and co-founder of E&S Rides, a partner of BoldMove Nation.
Special emphasis was placed on sustainability during the modernization process: existing set pieces were restored and reused, and even furniture and plants from the original Nautibus tank were reintegrated into the new setting. The preshow area now also features a real hydroponic farm. “It was challenging to coordinate in a very short timeline and under harsh circumstances all creative design and theming production, engineering and AV elements,” said Jérôme Delescaille, Architect-Design Manager at BoldMove Nation. “Our team and involved partners delivered amazing work with a high level of quality and dedication.“
The return of live fish to the redesigned tank further enhances the immersive experience. With this newly staged attraction, the Grand Aquarium Saint-Malo aims to captivate both returning guests and new audiences with a fascination for underwater worlds. ■
