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Grand Aquarium de Saint-Malo has reopened its reimagined Expédition Nautibus dark ride, merging two former attractions into a single immersive underwater journey
Tom Anstey | Planet Attractions | 21 May 2025
Grand Aquarium de Saint-Malo has reopened its reimagined Expédition Nautibus dark ride
France’s Grand Aquarium de Saint-Malo has officially reopened its dark ride experience following a significant overhaul, combining two former attractions - Nautibus and Abyssal Descender - into a single unified underwater journey.
Now known as Expédition Nautibus, BoldMove Nation is behind the three-month transformation, which involved a full technical upgrade, a new narrative, and redesigned thematic elements throughout the submarine ride.
Offering visitors a more immersive experience through the use of modern automation, scenic storytelling, and underwater projections, the renovation required draining the aquarium tank for the first time in 24 years for structural changes and installations, while existing props were restored and repositioned. The ride also now features themed lockers and a preshow area complete with a real hydroponic farm.
The ride’s updated storyline centres around a fictional deep-sea base, Emeraude, located 300 meters below sea level, with visitors embarking on a voyage to the mythical sunken city of Mor-Lenn. The experience includes various themed environments such as The Bridge, Living Quarters, and The Hangar, leading to the submarine boarding area. Along the journey, guests encounter remnants of lost civilizations and the spectral “Guardian of Mor-Lenn,” brought to life through visual effects.
As part of the overhaul, the original submarine vehicles were also fully refurbished with new automation systems, rewiring, and electrical cabinets to meet current EN13814 safety standards. The upgrade culminated in TÜV certification. A Pepper’s Ghost illusion now features in the main tank, enhancing the sense of depth and movement within the storytelling.
Sustainability was also a focus. The project reused existing elements wherever possible, from salvaged props to furniture and even plants. According to the design team, this approach reduced waste and minimized the project’s environmental footprint.
“This was a tight deadline under complex conditions,” said Jérôme Delescaille, architect and design manager at BoldMove. “We had to balance creativity, engineering, and logistics, but the result is a high-quality immersive experience that fits perfectly within the aquarium’s renewed identity.”
The new Expédition Nautibus forms part of a broader rebranding effort by the Grand Aquarium, one of France’s most visited marine attractions. With the reimagined ride now open, the aquarium hopes to draw both returning visitors and new audiences looking for a blend of education, entertainment, and immersive storytelling.
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