creating happy worlds
Expédition Nautibus - Grand Aquarium de Saint-Malo, France
Theming with technical transformation of underwater dark ride
Merging two attractions into immersive experience
The Grand Aquarium de Saint-Malo unveils its fully reimagined Expédition Nautibus, an immersive underwater adventure blending state-of-the-art technology with captivating storytelling. By merging two attractions, Abyssal Descender and Nautibus, the experience now offers a unified and compelling journey into the ocean’s depths. Designed and led by BoldMove Nation, the transformation introduces a new storyline, immersive theming, and a completely re-engineered ride system. The queue and preshow areas were redesigned and redecorated, while the submarine vehicles received a full technical overhaul, including rewiring and new automation system. The result is a breathtaking dark ride where visitors board submarines and explore mesmerizing underwater scenes from their windows, with smart media projections and new rockworks.
Smart design and creative approach
Faced with a one-week window to empty the tank, the team had to work with precision and efficiency. Existing props were carefully relocated, restored, and seamlessly integrated, while new elements were introduced to enhance immersion. Despite a tight three-month timeline to complete the entire transformation, smart and creative solutions were implemented to maximize impact. The entire queue line was strategically redesigned to enhance the narrative and seamlessly connect both attractions. Starting with a compelling storyline, the design team developed concept drawings and carefully selected materials, colors, and props to bring each room to life with authenticity. Inside the aquarium tank, Pepper’s Ghost effects create a breathtaking underwater illusion through ingenious glass projections, transforming the scenes into a true optical theater. Music and sound across the preshow and during the ride bring the story alive for a more coherent and exciting experience across the entire attraction.
Sustainability at the core
During the design process the team prioritized sustainability by repurposing existing elements. Every piece in the tank was carefully recuperated, refurbished, and reinstalled. Furniture was being re-used, including old radios and even plants from the tank. While adding new elements to enhance the experience—such as rocks, crates, columns, and frames—a real hydroponic farm was also introduced in the preshow. The old and worn-out submarines were fully refurbished rather than replaced, this extending their lifespan and reducing waste. This approach allowed the creation of a fresh and exciting experience that was created in an environmentally friendly and responsible way.
Engineering excellence
The technical overhaul modernized the ride’s electrical and automation systems, ensuring compliance with EN13814 standards and improving reliability while simplifying future maintenance. The engineering team managed the full documentation, installed new components, and programmed and tested advanced automation, creating a meticulously choreographed vehicle movement that aligns perfectly with the attraction’s immersive scenography.